Are the Waterways Open Yet in Twin Falls After the Quagga Mussel Invasion

Last year we learned why the Idaho Invasive Species stickers were so important and where the registration fees would be used as nearly all the waterways in Twin Falls were closed to stop a Quagga Mussel invasion.

For many, that made the end of summer a lot less fun as you couldn't get out on the water. Now the weather is warming up and some of us are itching to get back out there, but things are different this year compared to previous years.

Idaho Boating Season Update: What You Need to Know Before You Head to the Water

The good news is that you have a lot of options for places to play in the water in Southern Idaho. The bad news is that it may take a little longer this year to get in and out of the water and you still can’t access all the good places.

Twin Falls has 4 popular places to get in the water: Centennial Park, the Twin Falls Power Plant Park, above the Shoshone Falls, and Dierkes Lake. Surprisingly, 1 of those locations is still closed to watercraft.

Centennial is open and has been since mid-December, but you have to stop with your boat and kayaks at the hot wash station before and after you get in the water. This could take around 15 minutes each time, so you’re looking at an extra 30 minutes plus any wait time while other watercraft get washed.

The Twin Falls Power Plant is also open and doesn’t have any signs about the Quagga Mussels or a hot wash station. They have also widened the road down to the water which will make this location a lot more accessible and popular this year.

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The water above the Shoshone Falls is closed and signs are posted about the dangers of getting in the water. I talked to an employee who said there are plans to open a hot wash station there closer to summer when it is warmer and the water is safe.

Dierkes Lake is now open for regular use (motorized craft are never allowed).

What Are The Rules Now For Boating and Kayaking In Idaho

There are a lot of Idaho rules, requirements, equipment, and suggestions for safety on the water. This includes tags, whistles, life jackets, boater certifications, common sense, and more. 

All watercraft are required to have an invasive species sticker unless they are 'inflatable, non-motorized vessels less than 10 feet long' according to the Idaho Fish and Game website.

How and Where to Get Idaho Invasive Species Boat and Kayak Tags

Invasive Species stickers cost $7 for residents and can be purchased online or at select retailers around the state. The stickers are included in the registration of your boat and do not need to be purchased separately.

For full details on requirements for motorized and non-motorized watercraft, check the Idaho Fish and Game and the Idaho Parks and Recreation websites.