The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced measures to prevent the further spread of aquatic invasive species in the Adirondacks. Recent changes require motorized boat users to obtain certification that they have inspected and removed potentially harmful aquatic invasive species before launching in waters both in and immediately adjacent to the Adirondack Forest Preserve.
Beginning June 8, under the new state law, operators of motorized watercraft are to possess certification that, before launching, their vessel has undergone measures to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. When an aquatic invasive species inspection station adjacent to a public waterbody is open for operation, watercraft operators can receive a watercraft inspection certificate from a boat steward by accepting a free boat inspection or decontamination. Alternately, boaters may follow Clean, Drain, Dry standards described in NYS Regulation (6 NYCRR Part 576) on their own and fill out a self-issued certificate before launching.
Boat stewards will be stationed at popular boat launches across the Adirondack Park and can be identified by their blue vests. Free inspection and decontamination stations can be located by clicking here.
All New York residents and visitors have a role to play in protecting state waters from invasive species. Visit DEC’s website for more tips on how to clean, drain, and dry watercraft, fishing gear, and other equipment and for more information about New York’s watercraft inspection steward program.