The Pine River Irrigation District and the Bureau of Reclamation have closed several informal boat-launching sites at Vallecito Reservoir to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species.

Motorized boats and trailers are prime methods for introducing invasive species into uninfected waters. Recently, boats have been launched from the shoreline of Vallecito Reservoir instead of from the main boat ramp, where the Colorado Parks and Wildlife inspection station is located, the irrigation district said in a news release.

All trailered boats must be cleared at the inspection station to gain access to the reservoir; the station is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Hand-launched watercraft exempt from Parks and Wildlife inspections can use the closed access points.

The closure to boats with motors will also reduce spot contamination from leaking petroleum products, the potential introduction of sediments and terrestrial invasive species, disturbances of fishery spawning beds and stop damage and erosion caused by unauthorized vehicle-use on the lake bed.

For more information, call Pine River Irrigation District Superintendent Ken Beck at 884-2558 or Bureau of Reclamation Resource Specialist Ethan Scott at 385-6572.

fstone@durangoherald.com