2026 Tulloch Reservoir Updates and Operating Notices
Tulloch Reservoir Updates and Operating Notices
For updates on Tulloch Reservoir Campground closure – (See FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) - Tri-Dam Project )
Banding procedures will continue consistent with the prior season.
Notice to Reservoir Users – Watercraft Banding Verification
To maintain the integrity of the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Program and ensure compliance with established protocols, all vessel banding and inspections must be performed only by entities formally approved and authorized by Tri-Dam.
To ensure your vessel is properly recorded and eligible for launch, please request a text or digital receipt confirming that your band has been entered into the Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination (WID) database. This verification is required to maintain program integrity and protect the reservoir.
All vessel launching on Tulloch Reservoir must occur exclusively through designated launch sites authorized under the AIS Prevention Program. In alignment with current AIS protocols, launching from private properties or any unauthorized locations is strictly prohibited.
We appreciate your continued cooperation in helping safeguard Tulloch Reservoir.
Current Reservoir Status & Sticker Issuance
Tri-Dam is currently accepting and processing vessel sticker requests for eligible lakefront property owners and authorized users only. Stickers are not issued to the general public. Click here to request.
Stickers will be issued and mailed once designated public access for launching has been confirmed.
The Tuolumne County-operated campground boat launch is the primary designated access point but is currently closed. For updates on reopening, please contact Tuolumne County directly.
At this time, public launching is not available unless access is provided through an approved HOA or participating facility.
Drifter’s Marina is under new ownership. Updates will be provided once it becomes a designated launch location.
Launching from unauthorized locations, including private property, is not permitted.
AIS Protocol Requirements
Boating will be permitted once designated access is confirmed and must comply with the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Plan protocols. These protocols outline how to prepare your vessel for inspection and launching. Full details are available HERE
Key Requirements-
-
Clean, Drain, and Dry:
Every vessel must be completely clean, drained, and dry:- Prior to the initial 30-day banding inspection and
- Every time the vessel is launched
This critical step helps prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species and is required at all access points.
Important Update on Banding Acceptance
Previously, bands from certified outside locations were accepted within the 30-day quarantine window (e.g., a band applied on April 10 would be valid through May 10).
Banding Requirements:
- Bands from non-partner sites are not accepted
- Only Tulloch 30-day quarantine bands that can be verified in the national banding database will be honored
- Vessels with an existing re-entry band from the previous season may continue to be recognized, provided the band remains intact and verifiable.
Banding Locations - Tri-Dam Project
For questions regarding banding participation, please contact the private business or the County related to the campground where you previously launched directly for clarification.
Decontamination Station Coming Soon
We are actively working to install a vessel decontamination station, which will provide another method to help boaters meet AIS compliance standards. More details will be shared soon.
Tri-Dam Board Approved
R2025-05 Adopting AIS policy for Tulloch Reservoir.pdf
