The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is urging boaters and anglers to clean, drain and dry watercraft and gear before entering lakes, rivers and streams this summer to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, watercraft inspection stewards — commonly known as boat stewards — will staff more than 220 boat launches and decontamination stations statewide, educating recreationists and inspecting boats and equipment.
Last year, boat stewards interacted with more than 430,000 recreationists, conducted more than 220,000 inspections and intercepted 8,717 invasive plants and animals, according to DEC.
State officials highlighted ongoing efforts at the Cove Road boat launch in Verona, which provides access to Oneida Lake, the state’s largest inland lake. DEC and the New York State Canal Corporation recently expanded inspection and decontamination efforts there to combat invasive species such as round goby fish and water chestnut plants.
Aquatic invasive species can damage ecosystems by crowding out native plants and wildlife, lowering oxygen levels and spreading disease. Officials said the species can also negatively affect boating, fishing and tourism economies.
The statewide Watercraft Inspection Steward Program has expanded in recent years into western New York, the Catskills, Long Island and along the Mohawk and Hudson rivers. More than 280 stewards now work at launches operated by local organizations, parks, academic institutions and lake associations.
Officials recommend recreationists:
• Remove mud, plants and animals from boats, trailers and gear;
• Drain water-holding compartments before leaving a launch site;
• Dry equipment thoroughly before entering another waterbody;
• Use hot water decontamination when drying is not possible;
• Use only certified bait; and
• Avoid dumping bait or aquarium contents into waterways.
The program is funded through New York’s Environmental Protection Fund, which included $18.5 million for invasive species prevention and eradication efforts this year.
