Folsom representatives calling for reopening of Folsom lake to boats that have been decontaminated

Lawmakers representing the Folsom area are calling for the immediate reopening of Folsom Lake to boats that have been decontaminated. This comes after the US Bureau of Reclamation, along with the California Department of State Parks, recently closed Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine to motorized boats to prevent the spread of the invasive species golden mussel. Assemblyman Josh Hoover, Congressman Kevin Kiley, Senator Roger Niello and Assemblyman Joe Patterson jointly sent a letter to the US Bureau of Reclamation and California Department of State Parks, saying the general public was not given adequate notice of the new restrictions, despite the fact the agencies knew about the invasive species for more than six months. In a statement on a Folsom Facebook page, Assemblyman Hoover published the letter to let the community know about the action local lawmakers are taking. "While we share their commitment to protecting our local ecology and water delivery systems, we have concerns that state and federal jurisdictions were not better prepared with a plan that allows recreational access and minimizes harmful economic impacts," said Hoover. The letter calls on the bureau and State Parks to do the following: * Authorize decontamination procedures similar to those already used at Lake Tahoe. * Immediately reopen Folsom Lake to all boats that have been decontaminated. * Develop a coordinated process that allows green watercraft seals, received following decontamination or quarantine, to be accepted at multiple lakes. The letter states that with boating season quickly approaching, it is crucial that boaters are given the resources required to comply with this program. "... We have concerns that state and local jurisdictions are not better prepared with a response that balances the considerations of boaters and businesses that rely on our recreation industry," said the letter. The new boat launching requirements took effect at Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine on April 14 and state that both lakes are temporarily closed to all trailered or motorized vessel launching. Vessel owners who want to launch at either lake are required to participate in a vessel inspection/quarantine for 30 days. During the quarantine, the vessel is not permitted to launch. Officials warn that a golden mussel infestation would cause substantial damage to the ecosystem and fishery and impact the power generation and water delivery systems at Folsom Dam and reservoir. Golden mussels can also cause major damage to boats by attaching to hulls and clogging engines. Hand-launched non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks and canoes are not subject to the inspection, quarantine and decontamination requirements. As part of the golden mussel prevention program, only hand-launched boats will be allowed on Lake Natoma. Trailered vessels are not permitted.