The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) is planning to conduct a number of administrative checkpoints in southeastern Utah this spring and summer.
Checkpoints provide a means to contact a lot of people along the state’s transportation arteries.  Anglers and boaters can expect to encounter one or more of these checkpoints during spring, summer and fall.
A number of these checkpoints will be conducted for the purpose of inspecting watercraft. The state is very concerned about the possibility of transporting quagga or zebra mussels into or around Utah, These clam-like invaders could ruin our state’s lakes, reservoirs, power plants and culinary water systems.
Checkpoints also provide the UDWR with the opportunity to monitor compliance with fishing regulations. В Information on harvest success, species composition and size of fish is also be collected. В Where necessary, conservation officers can address violations of law, and take the opportunity to educate the public about the regulations.
Some checkpoint locations will be selected near popular fishing and boating destinations. Others will take place on Interstate and U.S. highways as well as state roads. Every effort will be taken to avoid slowing down traffic that is not towing watercraft or carrying occupants, who have not been participating in water sports.
UDWR’s failure to prevent the introduction and establishment of foreign mussel invaders could cost Utah’s citizens millions of dollars every year. Midwestern States already spend billions of dollars to combat the problems caused by their accidental introduction. For more information about aquatic invasive species, go to wildlife.utah.gov and do a search for “Utah’s AIS Management Plan.”
Contact: J. Shirley, Law Enforcement Lieutenant, 435-613-3710
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