The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced its participation in a campaign taking place at hundreds of water access sites throughout the Great Lakes region to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
The “Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz” runs from June 28 to July 7 and will inform boaters and others of the risks of introducing and spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS).
“New York is leading the charge to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species to protect our environment and economy from this urgent threat, and collaboration with other states and provinces is key as these species do not know state and provincial boundaries,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Starting June 28, New York watercraft inspection stewards will join forces with stewards in other Great Lakes states and provinces to raise awareness about AIS in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and the St. Lawrence River and encourage all boaters, no matter where they are, to Clean, Drain, and Dry their watercraft and assist in our protection efforts.”
AIS are non-native aquatic plants and animals that can cause harm to the environment, economy and human health. AIS have been found in the lakes, ponds, and rivers of New York and can reproduce and spread at a rapid rate. AIS contribute to the decline of native plants, fish and wildlife, and can negatively impact recreational opportunities and income.
One of the main pathways for transfer of AIS between waterbodies is recreational water vehicles and equipment, including boats, canoes, kayaks and jet skis. Aquatic invasive plants and animals such as hydrilla, water chestnut, and zebra mussels can easily attach themselves to a water vessel and be transported to an uninvaded body of water and take over.
Read the full NYDEC news release here
