Dedicated to protecting Malheur County's waterways from the ecological and economic threat of Quagga, Zebra, & Golden mussels through accessible education, early detection awareness, and empowering residents and visitors to prevent their spread.
To protect Malheur County's waterways from invasive species like Quagga, Zebra, & Golden Mussels, Oregon has specific permit requirements for boaters. These regulations apply statewide:
For non-motorized boats 10 feet and longer (such as kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddleboards): A Waterway Access Permit must be obtained. This permit also covers the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) prevention fee.
For motorized boats registered in Oregon (and sailboats 12 feet and longer): The fee for the AIS Permit is included in their state registration. Current registration decals serve as proof of payment, and a separate AIS or Waterway Access Permit is not needed for these vessels.
For motorized boats visiting from out-of-state: An Out-of-State Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Permit is mandatory before operating in any Oregon waterway.
All boaters should be aware that watercraft inspection stations, including one in Ontario in Malheur County, operate in Oregon. All vehicles carrying or towing any type of watercraft must stop at these stations when they are open to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Environmental/Economic Impacts:
The Quagga, Zebra, & Golden mussel upsets the food chain by consuming phytoplankton that other species need to survive. They are filter feeders—an adult filters 1 quart of water per day—that consume large portions of the microscopic plants and animals that form the base of the food web.
The mussels can colonize hulls, engines, and steering components of boats, and if left unchecked, can damage boat motors and restrict cooling.
The mussels frequently settle in massive colonies that can block water intake pipes and threaten the municipal water supply.
Economically, these mussels cause substantial damage. They readily colonize the submerged surfaces of boats, including hulls, engine components, and steering mechanisms. If not managed, these infestations can lead to serious damage to boat motors and impede cooling systems, resulting in costly repairs and operational issues.
Photo: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives
