FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) – BEARDSLEY RESERVOIR

Important Update: Please see the latest Reservoir Updates and Operating Notices – Tri-Dam Project for current information.
Note: This page will be updated regularly as new questions arise.

Is there a timeline for when the reservoir will reopen for boat launching?

At this time, Beardsley Reservoir is closed to vessel launching for the 2025 season. Please continue to check the Tri-Dam Project website for the most up-to-date information regarding reopening.

Has the Golden Mussel been found in Beardsley Reservoir?

No. There have been no confirmed detections of the Golden Mussel in Beardsley. The closure was implemented as a precautionary measure after water sampling data identified Beardsley as a moderate-risk reservoir for aquatic invasive species. This action is consistent with statewide prevention protocols.

Are motorized watercraft allowed?

No. Motorized watercraft of any kind are not permitted at Beardsley Reservoir during the current closure.

Are non-motorized watercraft allowed?

Yes. Non-motorized watercraft such as paddleboards, kayaks, and small canoes without motors or compartments are currently allowed. However, all users must complete a Self-Inspection Form prior to launching.
Visit: Self-Inspection Permit – Tri-Dam Project

Can I launch a small sailboat without a motor or CF number?

No. Even if the vessel has no motor, no compartments, and no CF number, if it is transported on a trailer, it is not permitted to launch at this time. All trailered vessels are currently restricted until a formal inspection and banding program is fully implemented at Beardsley.

Can I still fish and swim at Beardsley?

Yes. Recreational fishing is allowed from the shoreline or from an approved non-motorized watercraft as outlined above.  Swimming is also allowed.

What should I do if I find  a suspected invasive species in Beardsley?

Please report any suspected aquatic invasive species immediately:

• Call: Tri-Dam Project  at (209) 965-3996
• Email: tmcknight@tridamproject.com

Additional Information – Reference Only

Please Note: There is currently no active Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) prevention or banding program implemented at Beardsley Reservoir, and the reservoir remains closed to vessel launching for the 2025 season.  

The information below is for reference only and is intended to help the public understand how a potential AIS prevention and banding program could operate if implemented in the future.

Is there a banding program at Beardsley Reservoir?

No. At this time, the 30-day quarantine banding program is not available at Beardsley. However, should a program be introduced in the future, here is an overview of how it would likely operate based on current prevention models used at other reservoirs.

How does the 30-day quarantine banding program work?

Pre-Inspection Requirements:

• Vessels must arrive at the designated banding location cleaned, drained, and dry. This must be done prior to arrival.

Inspection and Banding:  

• If the vessel passes inspection (i.e., no signs of invasive species such as mussels), a quarantine seal (band) will be applied.
• The vessel is then required to remain out of the water for 30 days.

Purpose of the Quarantine: 

• This waiting period allows any potential invasive species—such as zebra mussels, quagga mussels, or Golden Mussels—to die off before the vessel can launch in the reservoir.

Re-Inspection and Launching:  

• After the 30-day quarantine period, vessels may launch only at the designated waterbody. Bands are not transferable between reservoirs.
• Each waterbody operates its own AIS program with distinct protocols and tracking systems.

What if I need to remove and return my vessel?

Once a vessel has completed the quarantine and has been banded, it may exit the water.
To return without restarting the 30-day quarantine, the vessel must be re-banded and the original seal must remain intact and verifiable through the inspection database (WID).
Broken or tampered bands require a full re-inspection and restart of the 30-day quarantine period.

Band Types (If Implemented):

Red Band – Indicates a vessel is under the 30-day quarantine and is not yet cleared for launching.
Green Band – Issued after re-banding, allowing vessels to re-launch without another quarantine period (provided no contamination or seal breakage has occurred).

Other Key Information:

• New Vessels: Even brand-new vessels must undergo inspection and receive a 30-day quarantine band.
• Banding Duration: Inspections typically take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on vessel size and condition. Wait times may vary.
• Trailered Vessels: All trailered vessels would be subject to these requirements.
• Vessel Storage: Tri-Dam does not store vessels during the quarantine period. It is the owner's responsibility to store and manage the vessel.
• Decontamination: If a vessel needs to launch before completing quarantine, it must undergo a decontamination process at an approved facility.
• Fees: A fee may apply for the banding and/or decontamination process.

If a banding program is implemented at Beardsley in the future, details—including inspection locations, hours of operation, and required documentation—will be provided on the Tri-Dam Project website.

Please continue to monitor www.tridamproject.com for official updates.