We know that all watercraft can transport aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as Eurasian watermilfoil, hydrilla, and zebra mussels. Cleaning, draining, and drying protects our water bodies by reducing the possibility of their spread. New York State law requires that every boat — including kayaks, canoes, and associated equipment — operated anywhere in the state are to be cleaned, drained, dried, or treated before launching.
You can help us protect the watershed by understanding the basics before launching.
CLEAN: Be sure to clean your boat and equipment by removing any visible plants, animals, mud, or debris.
DRAIN: Drain all water-holding compartments, including live wells, bait wells, ballast tanks, and bilge areas.
DRY: Dry boats, trailers, and all equipment before use in a waterbody.
In addition, a new law requires boaters operating any kind of motorized watercraft inside the Adirondack Park to carry a certificate confirming their motorboat is free of harmful aquatic invasive species. Motorboat operators can receive a watercraft inspection certificate from an Adirondack Watershed Steward by accepting a free boat inspection or decontamination. You can learn more about this regulation via an informational video found here.
Starting on Memorial Day, numerous Adirondack Watershed Steward Inspection and Decontamination Stations will be open throughout the Adirondacks. Locations and hours can be found at adkcleanboats.com.
The USF and our private boat launch owner partners will implement these Watercraft Launching Guidelines, encouraging watercraft users to CLEAN, DRAIN & DRY their watercraft and obtain certification before arriving at the Upper Saranac Lake area. For additional information on Upper Saranac Foundation’s role in protecting the watershed visit our web page — better yet, subscribe to our weekly newsfeed by entering your email address on our homepage.