Boat inspections return to Lake Chelan with expanded schedule

CHELAN — Voluntary boat inspections are returning to Lake Chelan beginning April 16, with an expanded schedule this year aimed at keeping invasive species out of the lake.

Chelan County Natural Resources will launch the season April 16 through April 19 at Mill Bay Marina. After opening weekend, inspectors will rotate among five locations around the lake: Old Mill Bay, Lakeshore Marina, PUD Riverwalk, Lake Chelan State Park and 25 Mile State Park. Inspectors will typically be operating Thursday through Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., but during busy holiday periods, the schedule expands through Mondays as well.

The free inspections are voluntary, but county officials continue to stress their importance as a first line of defense against aquatic invasive species.

“Inspections are still voluntary, but the more participation from the public, the better to protect against the spread and introduction of aquatic invasive species and keep the lake clean and healthy,” said Stephen Lesky, a senior natural resource specialist with the county.

Now entering its fourth season, the program is designed to prevent species such as milfoil and quagga, zebra, and golden mussels from entering the lake. These organisms can attach to boats, trailers and gear, and once established, they are extremely difficult and costly to remove.

Additional grant funding from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife is allowing the county to expand the program in 2026. Inspections are starting more than a month earlier than in previous years and will continue through September. Holiday weekends will also see expanded operations, with inspections running five days instead of the Friday through Sunday schedule used in 2025.

Participation in the program has steadily increased. Chelan County reported a 95 percent voluntary inspection rate in 2025, up from 86 percent in 2024, reflecting growing awareness among boaters about the risks of transporting invasive species.

The program also includes a sticker system designed to streamline repeat inspections. After completing an inspection and a short survey, boaters receive a color-coded decal indicating their typical water use. A light blue sticker is issued to Chelan residents whose boats are used only on Lake Chelan. A dark blue sticker is issued to boaters who use only waterways within Chelan and Douglas counties. An aqua blue sticker is issued to visitors from outside the area. Stickers issued in 2025 remain valid for the 2026 season, though boaters can still expect a full inspection at the start of the year.

The inspections are part of a broader “Clean, Drain, Dry” effort, which encourages boaters to remove visible debris, drain water from their vessels, and allow equipment to dry before entering new waterways.

With boating season approaching, county officials say continued cooperation from the public will be key to protecting Lake Chelan’s water quality and long-term ecosystem health.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media