Boating season on Tahoe begins May 1; inspections mandatory

The 2011 summer boating season starts May 1. Lake Tahoe boat inspection procedures are changing.

The following changes are taking place:

· All inspections will take place at roadside inspection stations.

· Blue Tahoe inspection seals from 2010 must be kept on boats.

· Plan ahead to ensure awareness of new requirements, inspection locations and to pre-purchase 2011 stickers.

· Remember to clean, drain and dry boats and equipment to protect boats and Lake Tahoe .

For more information, call 888.824.6267 or go online.

To receive Twitter updates on mobile phones, text “follow tahoeaquatic” to 40404.

The Sand Harbor and Cave Rock boat ramps will be open for the summer season from 6am to 8pm May 1 through Sept. 30. Watercraft inspectors will be provided at both sites by the Tahoe Resource Conservation District to check seals and stickers.

This process is important in protecting Lake Tahoe from the threat of aquatic invasive species such as quagga and zebra mussels.