The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is reinforcing its campaign to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) by urging boaters and outdoor enthusiasts to clean, drain, and dry all watercraft and equipment before entering state waterways.
Beginning May 23, boat stewards will be stationed at more than 220 boat launches and decontamination sites statewide. These stewards — trained volunteers and staff — inspect vessels, educate the public, and help intercept invasive species such as zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and hydrilla.
In 2024, DEC stewards conducted more than 219,000 inspections and removed over 11,000 invasive specimens. The inspections are part of the Watercraft Inspection Steward Program (WISP), operated in collaboration with the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, which manages approximately 30 sites.
Invasive species, both plant and animal, pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems, displacing native species, reducing oxygen levels, and undermining water quality. Some, such as round goby and water chestnut, also carry economic consequences for tourism and recreation.
To bolster containment efforts, DEC and the New York State Canal Corporation plan to deploy a new decontamination unit at the Cove Road Boat Launch on Oneida Lake, with future expansion planned along the canal system.
Under state law, motorized boaters in the Adirondack Park and within a 10-mile radius of the Blue Line must provide proof that their vessels have undergone AIS prevention protocols. Certification is available through on-site inspections or self-certification forms available on DEC’s website.
The round goby — first found in the Hudson River in 2021 — remains a particular concern. The fast-reproducing invasive fish threatens native species and carries pathogens that can harm bird populations. DEC and federal agencies continue coordinated efforts to monitor and restrict its movement, including targeted lock operations and genetic tracking.
The WISP program is funded through New York’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), which received a record $425 million allocation in the 2025–26 state budget, including $18.5 million for invasive species programs.
Boaters are advised to inspect and clean their gear thoroughly, drain all compartments, dry equipment for five to seven days between uses, and disinfect when necessary. DEC also urges the public to treat boat stewards with respect and report any inappropriate behavior at boat launch sites.
