News – Sheridan Media
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department reports boat ramp and aquatic invasive species inspection hours at both Glendo and Keyhole state parks are adjusting to accommodate the waning sunlight hours.
Beginning Monday, Oct. 24, boat ramp use and AIS inspection hours will be limited to sunrise to sunset. Boaters can check the Keyhole and Glendo sunrise/sunset tables for time references. Ramp restrictions — and the requirement for an aquatic invasive species inspection before launching — are due to the threat of zebra mussels from Pactola Reservoir in South Dakota spreading to Wyoming.
In September of this year, Game and Fish confirmed the discovery of Asian clams in Glendo Reservoir, an aquatic invasive species that could have ecological impacts in the future.
Aisian clams have been found in Wyoming before, identified in nearby Guernsey Reservoir in 2019 and the North Platte River in 2014.
The discovery of Asian clams in Glendo came shortly after the discovery of zebra mussels in Pactola. The reservoir is only 27 miles from the Wyoming border and is a popular boating destination for Wyoming and South Dakota residents.
During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program, Wyoming Game and Fish Sheridan Region AIS Specialist Reed Moore told listeners it is unsure just what ecological effects the Aisian clam will have in Glendo.
R. Moore
As a precautionary measure against the more damaging zebra and quagga mussels, Game and Fish has taken steps to inspect every watercraft before it’s allowed onto the waters, limiting the launching points used by the public.
At Keyhole boaters are limited to launching at Pine Haven — Coulter Bay ramp. Glendo boaters can launch only at Whiskey Gulch. All other boat ramps remain closed, and shore launching is prohibited. Boaters should plan for delays getting on the water.
Limitations are effective until both Keyhole and Glendo reservoirs freeze.
Over the winter Game and Fish will evaluate boating protocols for the 2023 season.
More Like this
Last modified: October 21, 2022