Quote Originally Posted by Havasuing View Post
The Border Protection/Inspection Stations at Vidal Junction and Needles might not be so much fun in the very near future, especially for boaters heading from Havasu or Parker coming back into California. Expect a significant ramp-up in invasive species (quagga mussel) inspections on all boats and trailers. Be sure and travel with the drain plugs out (if not, a citation can be written with a fine attached). Also, need to make sure that the boat and trailer are dry (no water anywhere) and that things like anchors, water toys, ski ropes, etc. are clean. If the inspection station finds a 'mussel' hitch-hiking on your boat or trailer, you will be pulled into "secondary" (this means the inspection station will blast your boat and trailer with a hot water (about 180 degree) pressure wash. This could mean up to a 1 to 2 hour delay in your travel time. In mid-February the Lake Havasu Marine Association will start distributing invasive species "stickers" to be attached to the tongue area of your trailer with information about the proper protocol to clean your boat and eliminate mussels. Although these "stickers" won't prevent you from being inspected at the stations, they are suppose to expedite potential inspection delays. It might be worth getting one if it puts you on a fast track.
With all the routes around the check points, you have to wonder if they make any difference.