08/21/2026
⚠️ Protect New Mexico Waters: Clean, Drain, Dry
New Mexico State Parks and the remind all boaters that Clean, Drain, Dry practices are essential for keeping our waters safe for the public, local communities, and native wildlife. Preventing the spread of invasive mussels protects our lakes, rivers, recreation areas, and critical infrastructure and is still required for out-of-state registered vessels and those vessels that have left the state.
This is a public safety effort that benefits everyone who relies on New Mexico’s waterways.
How You Can Help Keep New Mexico Mussel‑Free
Thoroughly Dry Your Boat and Gear
After each outing, remove all water from engines, live wells, and ballast tanks. Open compartments and place ropes, life jackets, anchors, and other gear in direct sunlight to dry completely.
Remove All Plugs
Pull every plug from your boat to ensure there’s no standing water left inside.
Get an Inspection if You Traveled Out of State. Boats registered outside New Mexico—or any boat that has left the state—must be inspected before launching. This simple step helps protect local communities and wildlife from invasive species that can harm our waters.
Dispose of Shells Properly
If you collect shells, empty them into the trash to avoid accidentally transporting invasive species.
📞 Need a free inspection or decontamination?
Contact Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator at DOW, James Dominguez at 505‑629‑9867.
Friends of Elephant Butte Lake State Park Sierra County Sentinel Marina Del Sur , Bureau of Reclamation , Rebecca Dow New Mexico Water Advocates Pirate Cove Elephant Butte, New Mexico Department of Wildlife
