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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

 Is there a timeline for when the reservoir will reopen?
At this time, there is no set timeline for reopening the reservoir.

Has the Golden Mussel been found on Tulloch Reservior?
No, there have been no findings of the Golden Mussel on Tulloch.  The closure was implemented as a precautionary measure until a robust plan is in place to ensure a safe reopening.

Is recreational swimming allowed?
Yes, recreational swimming is currently allowed unless conditions change.

Are non-motorized watercraft allowed?
Yes, paddleboards, small canoes without motors, and kayaks are currently permitted unless conditions change.

Have fishing tournaments been cancelled?
Yes, all fishing tournaments have been cancelled until further notice.

Are all boat launches closed?
Yes, all boat launches are currently closed.

Is the sticker request  only for vessels currently in Tulloch?

Yes, currently the stickers are for vessels in the water.  Tri-Dam is in the process of developing a plan for all other vessels as we are aware some vessels property owners have them dry docked and/or in storage.  Please visit our request for vessel sticker to view the requirements. 

How does this affect the closure for recreational boating?
If a boat is already in the lake and has a valid Tulloch sticker, it may be used and does not need to wait until ramps reopen. However, please be aware that law enforcement will be assisting in ensuring that only authorized vessels remain in the water.

Are the boat launches closed for all closure only for powerboats?
The closure prohibits any boats from being launched into Tulloch, including from private property launches. Law enforcement will be assisting in enforcing this restriction.

What side of my vessel should the Tri-Dam sticker be placed? 

Vessel stickers should typically be placed on the port (left) side of the boat, near the registration numbers. However, it's best to follow any specific placement instructions provided by your HOA compliance, if applicable. 

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**The banding implementation has not started yet. We appreciate your patience and will provide updates as soon as possible.**

30-DAY QUARANTINE BANDING/SEAL INFORMATION: 

How does the banding system work?
The vessel will need to arrive at the designated banding location cleaned, drained, and dry. Please ensure this is done prior to arrival. Once a vessel is inspected, a 30-day quarantine seal will be applied. The vessel cannot launch in the water body for a period of 30 days, allowing time for any mussels or invasive species to die off if present.

What is the purpose of the 30-day quarantine for vessels?
The 30-day quarantine is a preventive measure designed to stop the spread of invasive species, such as zebra and quagga mussels and most recently the Golden Mussel. These species can cause significant damage to aquatic ecosystems, infrastructure, and local economies. The quarantine ensures vessels are free of these invasive species before launching in certain water bodies.

What are the criteria for bringing in a vessel for inspection?
Before arriving at a designated banding location, vessels must be clean, drained, and dry. Additionally, boater should have proof of registration, a valid CF number, a mussel sticker on the vessel, and a boater’s card for verification.

Can I still use my vessel during the 30-day quarantine period?
No. During the quarantine period, vessels cannot be launched in the water body where the inspection was conducted. The quarantine is in place to prevent contamination of the lake or water source.

How do I get my vessel inspected and receive the quarantine band?
Vessels must be inspected at designated inspection stations. The inspection will involve checking for signs of invasive species, including mussels, and ensuring the vessel is clean, drained, and dry. If the vessel passes inspection, a quarantine seal will be applied.

What happens after the 30-day quarantine period?
After the 30-day quarantine period ends, the vessel can be inspected again. If found free of invasive species, the quarantine seal will be removed, and the vessel will be allowed to launch in the water body without restriction.

Can I re-band my vessel if it has already met the 30-day quarantine period?
Yes. If your vessel has completed the 30-day quarantine and has been inspected, you can exit the water, get re-banded, and return at a later date without needing to go through the full quarantine process again. This offers convenience for boaters who follow the guidelines and ensures continued compliance.

What do the different color bands mean?
There will be two types of bands used for different purposes:

  • Red Band: Issued for vessels under a 30-day quarantine. This indicates that the vessel is prohibited from launching in the water body until the quarantine period has passed.
  • Green Band: Issued for vessels that have undergone re-banding. This allows the vessel to return to the water without requiring waiting an additional 30-day quarantine, as long as the banding is recorded in the WID platform.

If I leave and return, do I need to wait an additional 30 days?
No. Once your vessel has completed the initial 30-day quarantine as long as you are re-banded, you will not need to wait an additional 30 days upon returning. The re-banding allows you to launch without going through the full quarantine process again, provided the seal remains intact and no issues with invasive species are found.

What if my boat is dry-docked, and I never take it anywhere but Tulloch?
Even if your boat is dry-docked and only used at Tulloch, you are still required to follow the same protocols as other vessels. This includes inspection, banding, and adherence to the 30-day quarantine process. These protocols are in place to prevent the spread of invasive species to the lake, regardless of the frequency or location of boat use.

What if my boat is brand new and has never been in the water?
Even if your boat is brand new and has never been in the water, it still needs to undergo inspection and receive a 30-day quarantine band. All boats must go through the inspection and banding process to ensure they are free of any potential contaminants.

How long will the banding process take?
The banding process typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes per vessel, depending on the size and condition of the boat. This includes inspection, application of the quarantine seal, and any necessary paperwork. However, please note that wait times may vary based on the number of vessels being processed at the time.

What is the WID platform, and how does it work?
The WID (Watercraft Inspection Database) platform is a centralized system designed to capture your CF number and trailer license plate number, allowing authorized personnel to look up your vessel’s information. Note that no personal information will be shared through this system. If a nearby lake or reservoir is using the same platform, your vessel’s banding information will be accessible, which means that if your vessel has been issued a 30-day quarantine band, it is likely that the banding will be honored at other participating locations, as long as it is recorded in the system.

Can I launch my vessel at another location during the quarantine period?
No. The vessel must remain quarantined and cannot launch in any other water bodies during the 30-day period unless it undergoes a decontamination procedure and receives clearance.

Is there a way to bypass the 30-day quarantine period?
Yes. In some cases, vessels can bypass the 30-day quarantine if they undergo a decontamination process, typically involving hot-water treatments. Currently, we do not have a decontamination station on Tulloch, but we are working towards developing a plan with the South Shore campground on utilizing the boat decontamination station, fees would apply.  This will likely not be in operation when the banding begins as we will need to work out the details of the plan.  Only authorized trained personnel can perform these same day decontamination ensuring the vessel is clean and safe for launch sooner than the full 30-day quarantine period.

What should I do if my vessel is found with invasive species?
If invasive species are found during the inspection, the vessel owner will be given instructions on how to proceed with the decontamination process.

Will my vessel stay at the banding location during the quarantine?
No, once the vessel is banded, it must be taken with you. We do not hold vessels at the inspection location during the quarantine period. It is your responsibility to manage your vessel during the 30-day period.

What happens if I need to get my vessel re-banded?
If the quarantine seal is broken or damaged, you will need to return to the inspection station for the quarantine process to restart and get reinspected and re-banding. It is important to ensure the seal remains intact during the 30-day period to maintain the quarantine status.

Will I be charged for banding?
Depending on the location, a fee may apply for the banding process. Please check with the inspection station for specific fee details.

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