If you’re planning to move a boat, kayak, paddleboard, or any other watercraft in B.C. this year — this is a must-read. Aquatic invasive species are a growing threat, and whirling disease has now been confirmed in Kootenay Lake. That makes it more important than ever to Clean, Drain, and Dry — and to stop at every open inspection station along your route.
For more info visit the BC Government’s page
Why It Matters
Aquatic invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels — and now the parasite that causes whirling disease — can cause serious harm:
- Damage native fish populations
- Disrupt ecosystems and water quality
- Clog water intakes and irrigation systems
- Impact local economies and recreational water use
- Whirling disease, now confirmed in Kootenay Lake, is caused by a microscopic parasite that affects trout, whitefish, and other salmonids. Once introduced, it’s nearly impossible to eliminate.
Who Needs to Stop?
Anyone transporting a watercraft in B.C. must stop at open inspection stations. This includes:
- Motorboats
- Canoes
- Paddleboards
- Sailboats
- Car toppers, trailers, and inflatables
Even if your watercraft is dry, unused recently, or has only been used within B.C., you are still legally required to stop.
Failure to stop at an open inspection station could result in a $345 fine.
In recent seasons, Conservation Officers issued dozens of tickets and warnings to motorists who failed to comply.
What Inspectors Look For
At inspection stations, trained staff will ask questions to assess risk:
- Where was your watercraft in the last 30 days?
- How long has it been out of the water?
- Watercraft are considered high-risk if they:
- Were recently used in waters known or suspected to have zebra or quagga mussels
- Are dirty, slimy, or covered in mud or plant material
- Have not been adequately cleaned, drained, or dried
If needed, your watercraft may be decontaminated on-site at no cost. Clean, dry watercraft that have only been used within B.C. will usually pass through quickly.
Where Are the Inspection Stations?
Inspection stations are located throughout B.C. and operate from April through late October each year. Station placement is based on traffic volume, direction of travel, and risk history.
Planning to pass near Kootenay Lake? Make sure to check the station map. With whirling disease now confirmed in the lake, inspections are especially critical in the region.
About the BC–Alberta Passport Program
Boaters who frequently travel between British Columbia and Alberta can voluntarily join the BC–AB Passport Program at any inspection station.
It’s still mandatory to stop
The process is quicker for passport holders
Supports consistent Clean, Drain, Dry practices between provinces
Your passport will be stamped each time you go through an inspection station in either province.
Clean. Drain. Dry. Every Time.
Whether you’re towing a boat, car-topping a kayak, or traveling with your paddleboard, you play a role in protecting B.C.’s waters. Simple actions prevent major problems:
Clean your watercraft and gear of any mud, plants, or debris
Drain all compartments and equipment
Dry everything completely before your next launch
If you suspect a watercraft may be carrying invasive species or has skipped inspection, contact the RAPP Line to report it.
Take Action to Protect B.C.’s Waters
Stopping at inspection stations takes just minutes — but it helps prevent years of damage. With whirling disease confirmed in Kootenay Lake and mussels always a threat, these protective measures are more important than ever.
Clean. Drain. Dry.
Stop. Report. Repeat.
Together, we can stop the spread.
CKISS gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation