Surface waters within Sierra County will receive protection from aquatic invasive species introduction as a result of County Ordinance 1041. Under this ordinance, boaters are required to complete a watercraft self-inspection prior to launching in surface waters of Sierra County. Water bodies affected by this ordinance include Independence Lake, Lake of the Woods, Jackson Meadows Reservoir, Stampede Reservoir and Lakes Basin water bodies, including Gold Lake (2 launches), Lower Salmon Lake, Lower Sardine Lake, Packer Lake, Snag Lake, Upper Salmon Lake and Upper Sardine Lake.

If established in local waters, aquatic invasive species (AIS), such as Quagga Mussels, Asian clams and Eurasian Watermilfoil, could degrade aquatic ecosystems, inhibit recreation, damage infrastructure and equipment and cause depreciation in property values. This program allows boaters to take responsibility for their vessels.”

Currently, Sierra County is partnered with the Tahoe Resource Conservation District (Tahoe RCD) to develop and implement the County’s watercraft self-inspection program. Since 2009, the Tahoe RCD has gained experience and developed expertise in the creation and management of watercraft inspection programs in the Lake Tahoe and Truckee regions.

Signage and self-inspection forms are available at boat launches throughout Sierra County. Roving inspector/educators will visit launch sites periodically to assist boaters with program compliance.