Forest Service launches new self-serve AIS cleaning stations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service in the Northern Region introduced a new tool in the fight against aquatic invasive species through the installation of four waterless, boater-operated cleaning systems.

CD3 system, which stands for clean, drain, dry and dispose, is a standalone watercraft cleaning unit offering an air blower, wet-dry vacuum, hand tools and lights.

“The Northern Region has world-renowned waterways from Pend Oreille Lake to the Gallatin, Madison and Missouri Rivers, hundreds of lakes, and many headwaters,” said Michelle Cox, Invasive Species Program Manager, Northern Region. “It is critical that we continue to all do our part and look for ways to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species into our waterways.”

Boaters can use the tools to remove and properly dispose of water, weeds, debris, and leftover bait to aid in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species like quagga and zebra mussels, New Zealand mud snails, curly leaf pondweed, and fragrant waterlily.

 Cleaning stations are located at:

- Swan Lake, Flathead National Forest

- Georgetown Lake, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

- Hebgen Lake, Custer-Gallatin National Forest

- Priest Lake, Idaho Panhandle National Forest

While the CD3 stations are a valuable tool, all motorized and non-motorized watercraft must still undergo mandatory inspections at designated state inspection sites.

By using the CD3 stations, boaters can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species like quagga and zebra mussels, New Zealand mud snails, curly leaf pondweed and fragrant waterlily. 

These invasive species wreak havoc on ecosystems, disrupting food webs and damaging infrastructure.

For more information on the cleaning system visit www.cd3systems.com.