New Watercraft Inspection Requirements to Prevent Golden Mussels & AIS
New ordinances in Mono and Inyo Counties now require mandatory inspections for all trailered watercraft before launch. Boaters must stop at an official WID station and receive an inspection sticker before launching.
Why this matters:
Golden mussels are not here yet—and that’s exactly the point. Once introduced, they cannot be removed. They spread easily, reproduce rapidly, and can permanently damage our lakes, fisheries, infrastructure, and local economy.
This is a serious, region-wide effort and we need your help.
Businesses and partners play a critical role in preventing introduction:
- Share inspection requirements with customers – ideally before they visit
- Direct visitors to WID stations
- Promote Clean, Drain, Dry practices
Prevention is our only option, and it will take all of us working together to prevent the introduction of this destructive aquatic invasive species (AIS).
FOR MORE INFO:
Please see the business & partner information flyer at the bottom.
Business & Partner Toolkit: www.vcptoolkit.org/golden-
Access and download: business info flyer, mussel monster poster, social media graphics and copy, digital banner for websites and e-mail signatures.
Public-facing website: www.easternsierrawid.com
Includes: WID station locations, dates, hours, FAQs, and links to other resources.
Sierra Forever is accepting applications for an Interpretive Specialist (Golden Mussel Project) who will help staff Watercraft Inspection & Decontamination (WID) stations and support regional prevention efforts.
Sierra Forever Job Description
Upcoming Events to Learn More About Golden Mussel Prevention Efforts
- April 11, 5:30 PM – Town Hall Meeting, Tallman Pavilion at the Tri-County Fairgrounds in Bishop
- April 21, 12:00 PM – Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce Power Lunch
- April 24, 10:00 AM – Earth Week Pre-Fishmas Spring Clean Up at Gull Lake Park
- April 29, 6:00 PM – Spring Mammoth Trails Community Meeting
- May 12, 7:00 PM – SNARL Seminar Series
Tri-County Economic Impact Analysis Public Workshops & Survey
We need your input!
Please join us for an in-person OR Zoom workshop to share your thoughts on outdoor recreation and how it supports local jobs, businesses, infrastructure, housing, and natural resources.
Your input will help our region plan for a resilient and sustainable future as part of the Tri-County Economic Impact Analysis project. This project is a partnership with Alpine County, Mono County, Inyo County.
During this upcoming 90-minute workshop series, participants will:
·        Learn about the goals, timeline, and progress of the Tri-County Economic Impact Analysis
·        Review key findings from the regional recreation survey
·        Participate in live polling about recreation priorities and management strategies
·        Join a facilitated discussion about opportunities, challenges, and the future of the local recreation economy
Your feedback will inform the final study and recommendations. We look forward to hearing your perspective and working together to shape the future of recreation in the Eastern Sierra.
Join us in person at one of our three workshops or register to join remotely via Zoom:
ALPINE COUNTY
April 20
5:30–7:00 PM
3 WEBSTER ST, MARKLEEVILLE
ZOOM – Register Here
MONO COUNTY
April 21
5:30–7:00 PM
MEMORIAL HALL
73 NORTH SCHOOL ST, BRIDGEPORT
ZOOM – Register Here
INYO COUNTY
April 22
5:30–7:00 PM
BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER
269 N MAIN STREET, BISHOP
ZOOM – Register here
+ Share your input online!
Whether or not you’re able to attend the workshop, we encourage you to take a 10–15 minute survey and share your perspective.
If you’ve lived, worked, owned a business, or recreated in the Eastern Sierra within the past three years, your input is valuable. Responses are confidential and reported only in aggregate.
Take the Survey – Survey Monkey
Yosemite – No Reservation System for 2026
Yosemite National Park has announced there will be NO reservation system for Summer 2026.
With increased visitation anticipated, helping visitors plan ahead, travel during off-peak times, and explore beyond Yosemite Valley will be key to ensuring a positive experience for both travelers and gateway communities. Please share the following planning tips and updates.
Entering the Park:
- No entry reservation required in 2026.
- Entrance fees still apply at the gates.
- Pay your park entrance fee in advance at Recreation.gov to help speed entry.
When to Visit:
- Plan for crowds: April through October is peak season, with Yosemite Valley drawing the most visitors.
- Arrive early or late (before 9 am or after 5 pm) to avoid traffic and congestion.
- Consider weekday visits for the best experience.
- Explore beyond Yosemite Valley: Encourage visitors to discover other areas of the park for a more enjoyable and less congested experience.
International Visitors:
- New fees for Non-U.S. residents: $250 for the America the Beautiful pass (valid for one vehicle or four people) or $100 for a single-park pass at participating sites, including Yosemite.
More information:
nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/ and nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/
We’re Hiring!
We’re hiring a Recreation Data TechnicianData Technician (seasonal, part-time) to support visitor services, tourism outreach, and data collection across Mono County. This position is shared between the County’s Outdoor Recreation (SOAR) and Economic Development departments, with work in both visitor centers and office settings.
An additional full-time seasonal position is expected to be posted soon—stay tuned for more opportunities.
Support Stewardship in the Eastern Sierra
Show your commitment to sustainable recreation by supporting Adopt A Trail or Tangle Free Waters. Businesses and partners can help care for a favorite trail or lake while protecting our natural resources.
Sponsors receive on-site recognition, offering a meaningful way to showcase your business’s commitment to the Eastern Sierra while connecting with visitors and the community.
Join us in preserving the places that make Mono County special!
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