Join the Upper Saranac Foundation in recognizing New York Invasive Species Awareness Week (NYISAW), a statewide effort to raise awareness about invasive species and the threats they pose to our lands and waters.
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) remain one of the greatest risks to the Upper Saranac watershed. While Upper Saranac Lake currently has two known invasive aquatic species, nearby waterways contain significantly more. Lake Champlain hosts more than 50 non-native aquatic species, while the Hudson River and Great Lakes contain even greater numbers. Because these waterbodies are closely connected through regional travel and recreation, invasive species can spread into Adirondack waters through boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.
Most AIS are transported by human activity—hitchhiking on boats, trailers, fishing gear, anchors, and other recreational equipment as people move between lakes and rivers. Many invasive species can spread from just a small plant fragment or trace amount of water. Once introduced, they often lack natural predators and can grow aggressively, outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity, impairing recreation, and altering water quality.
Prevention and early detection remain our best defenses. You can help protect the Upper Saranac watershed by learning to identify invasive species and always cleaning, draining, and drying your equipment before entering another waterbody.
Learn more about aquatic invasive species and ongoing prevention efforts at the Upper Saranac Foundation website:
Upper Saranac Foundation Invasive Species Program
Organizations across New York are hosting hikes, webinars, volunteer events, and family activities throughout the week. Find an event near you:
NY Invasive Species Awareness Week Events