[OSMB-News] News Release -Be Sure to Carry Your Aquatic Invasive Species Permit

[Ashley Massey]

For Immediate Release	Date: Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Be Sure to Carry Your Aquatic Invasive Species Permit 
Officers Looking for Compliance as Boaters Hit Area Waterways

The Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit Program went into effect on January 1, but marine law enforcement wanted to make sure the boating public had enough opportunity to learn about the program before issuing any citations.  The Marine Board and Department of Fish and Wildlife are implementing the new program and decided to not vigorously enforce the new laws until the traditional kick off of the boating season which is Memorial Day Weekend.
	
Marine law enforcement officers will be patrolling the waterways to make sure everyone is safe.  One of the first things a deputy will ask when making a boater contact is, “Do you have a boater education card and show me your invasive species permit,” says Dale Flowers, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board.  “All of us who are out on the water care about the quality of our water.  It’s important that these prevention efforts are taken seriously,” Flowers explains. 

“Motor boat owners who register their watercraft are issued stickers that affix to the bow of the boat.  A current decal is proof of payment into the new program,” says Glenn Dolphin, Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Coordinator for the Marine Board.  “Non-motorized boats like canoes or kayaks can purchase their permits through the Department of Fish and Wildlife.  This is a paper permit that must be carried when the craft is being operated on the water.  One permit per boat,” Dolphin adds.
	
For more information about the aquatic invasive species prevention program, costs, prevention efforts, and the species that threaten our waterways the most, visit http://www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/Clean/AISPPmain.shtml 
###


Ashley A. Massey
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us
www.boatoregon.com
www.twitter.com/marineboard

"You can prevent the spread of aquatic invaders...just Clean, Drain and Dry your boat!"