Hot wash and check stations for boaters are opening up across Idaho

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The Idaho State Department of Agriculture wants to remind boaters that hot wash and check stations are opening up for the season.

Stations can be found at Centennial Park in Twin Falls and along U.S. Highway 93 and Interstate 84 for people crossing over from neighboring states.

The check stations are meant to help prevent the spread of invasive species, like zebra and quagga mussels.

All boat owners must stop for a mandatory inspection when traveling past a station during daylight hours.

“It’s important that folks understand that there was a change in the state law last year that made it a requirement when you move watercraft to drain all water from the watercraft when you move between water bodies and certainly move into the state from out of state. All boaters in state and out of state need to know that is a requirement. It’s in the statute now that was passed in 2024.” Lloyd Knight, Deputy Director for the ISDA, stated.

ISDA also reminded people that nonresident boat owners must purchase an invasive species sticker before launching a watercraft in Idaho.

They also encourage boaters to remove visible plants and animals from their watercraft.

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