After a short closure, New York State has reversed its temporary suspension of boat launches for recreational use.
Additionally, as of Saturday, April 18, marinas and boatyards will be able to open back up, with restrictions.
The newest NYS guidance aligns state policies for a uniform regional approach with neighboring states. See the joint press release from New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey for more information here.
The states’ executive orders indicate that the use of boat launch sites for the purposes of personal use or operation of boats or other watercraft is permissible, provided that no establishment offers chartered watercraft services or rentals. NYS Executive orders can be found here.
The Upper Saranac Foundation (USF) encourages the health of boaters by following social distancing and sanitization protocols, and wants to remind launch users to help protect the health of the watershed by not spreading invasive species. Please follow the CLEAN, DRAINED, and DRY standard of protection.
CLEAN: Remove all visible plants, animals, fish, and mud from your boat, trailer, or other equipment before transporting equipment.
DRAIN: Eliminate water from equipment. Drain water from bilge, live wells, ballast tanks, and other components containing water.
DRY: Before you arrive at the launch, dry your boat, trailer, and all equipment completely. Drying times vary depending on the weather and the type of material. At least five days of drying time is generally recommended during the summer.
