The goal of the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program is to protect Whatcom County's natural resources, infrastructure, recreation, wildlife, and economy from the impacts of aquatic invasive species by:

If you have a non-motorized, hand-carried boat (kayak, canoe) do you need a permit to launch on Lake Whatcom or Lake Samish?

If you get a wire seal attached to your boat and trailer when leaving Lake Whatcom, and then come back to Lake Whatcom another day with the tether still intact, will you need to stop at a staffed inspection station?

A prevention program can help stop aquatic invasive species from being introduced.

Zebra and quagga mussels can create long-term taste and odor issues in drinking water supplies and clog water intake structures.

In the state of Washington you can be fined for towing a boat/trailer on the road with plant fragments attached.

Boating is a primary pathway for the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species to and from Whatcom County lakes.