Aquatic Invasive Species Boot Cleaning Stations-Laramie Region

The Fisheries Division in the Laramie Region of Wyoming Game and Fish are working hard to keep AIS from infiltrating our pristine waters.

New Zealand Mudsnails (NZMS) are AIS that pose a significant risk to the blue ribbon fisheries of the Laramie Region. Game and Fish Laramie Region fisheries biologists will erect 10 boot cleaning stations with educational signs about the biology of NZMS and the risk of transporting them via gear. These stations will be located at high risk high use areas in the Laramie fisheries management area such as the Upper North Platte River, Diamond Lake, the Big Laramie River, Twin Buttes Reservoir, and Wheatland Reservoir #3. The signs and stations will be designed in the spring of 2021 and installed in the fall of 2021.

New Zealand Mudsnails are currently in the North Park and Front Range of Colorado and the Casper Region in the North Platte River. Mudsnails are thought to be moved to different locations via fishing gear in particular waders and boots. The goal of the NZMS informational signs and boot cleaning stations is to educate and engage anglers on the importance of cleaning gear and to also provide a tool for the public to use to help stop the spread of AIS. The WYldlife Fund was pleased to grant funds to this important initiative.