Before sunrise, Watershed Stewards were already at work at Back Bay, preparing to protect Upper Saranac Lake as anglers arrived for the Upper Saranac Lake Bass Tournament. Boats and trailers began arriving around 5:00 a.m., with many coming directly from Lake Champlain, where numerous aquatic invasive species (AIS) are present but have not yet been found in Upper Saranac Lake.
Stewards inspected each vessel and trailer, removing any plants, animals, or other material that could introduce AIS to the lake. The tournament also provided an opportunity to speak directly with anglers about the importance of Clean, Drain, and Dry practices and the role each boater plays in preventing the spread of invasive species.
The tournament, which attracted more than 20 teams competing for cash prizes and the title of Upper Saranac Lake Bass Tournament Champion, is an important opportunity for AIS education and prevention. Steward coverage continued after the tournament, with returning boats inspected to ensure they were clean before heading to their next destination.
The Upper Saranac Foundation (USF) is proud to partner with the Adirondack Watershed Institute at Paul Smith’s College on this important protection effort. The Upper Saranac Watershed Stewardship Program provides coverage at the two NYSDEC public boat launches serving the watershed—Back Bay on Upper Saranac Lake and Fish Creek Public Campground—and maintains a hot-water decontamination unit at Back Bay.
Under current NYSDEC regulations, motorized boat users launching into Adirondack Park waters must carry certification showing that their vessel has been inspected and cleared of AIS.
Through early-morning inspections, decontamination, and continued education, Watershed Stewards help ensure that Upper Saranac Lake remains protected for anglers, boaters, wildlife, and future generations.
