The state Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding boaters to clean, drain and dry their boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment before launching in New York’s waters to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Starting Friday, May 22, boaters will see the blue vests worn by Watercraft Inspection Stewards, also known as boat stewards, at more than 220 boat launches and decontamination stations throughout the state.

“New York’s waters are vital to our ecology and economy, and recreating responsibly in New York’s abundant lakes, ponds, and streams is a critical component for preventing the spread of invasive species,” said Amanda Lefton, state DEC commissioner. “DEC supports stewards to help educate and connect with hundreds of thousands of people along waterbodies statewide, and all boaters can protect the environment and follow the useful instructions to Clean, Drain, Dry and help prevent aquatic invaders.”

Last year, DEC’s boat stewards connected with 430,000 recreationists, conducted more than 220,000 watercraft inspections, and intercepted 8,717 aquatic invasive plants and animals while raising awareness about aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic invasive plants, such as the water chestnut, harm ecosystems by shading out native plants, decreasing dissolved oxygen, and increasing sediment buildup. Similarly, invasive fish like the round goby threaten biodiversity by carrying diseases, preying on native fish eggs and fry, and out-competing native species. Beyond ecological damage, these species can create significant negative impacts on water recreation and local economies.

Over the last few years, boat steward programs have expanded from the Finger Lakes and Adirondack Regions to Western New York, the Catskills, the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, and Long Island. More than 220 locations have active boat stewards and employ over 280 people. The programs are administered by academic institutions, lake associations, NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (Parks), and Regional Partnerships for Invasive Species Management (PRISMs) at both public and private launches.

All water recreationists are advised to follow these steps to help prevent the spread of AIS:

Clean mud, plants, and animals off boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment (trailer bunks, axles, rollers, lights, transducers, and license plates; motor props; waders; diving gear; anchors; etc.) and discard the material in a trash can or at a disposal station;

Drain all water-holding compartments, including ballast tanks, live wells, and bilge areas, before leaving an access site;

Dry everything thoroughly before using boats or equipment in another waterbody. Drying times can vary, but five to seven days in dry, warm conditions is recommended.

When there is no time to dry between uses, disinfect boats and equipment with hot water that is at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit or visit a decontamination site

Pick up a Clean Drain Dry towel and a Protect Your Waters sticker from one of our boat stewards to remind you to take these preventive steps.

Only use certified bait that is non-invasive and disease free; and

Do not dump aquarium contents or unused bait in any waterbodies, drainage ditches, or sewers.