As summer boating season begins, boaters are urged to take a proactive role in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. The state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is leading the charge with a simple yet effective campaign: "Clean, Drain, Dry."
This initiative encourages boaters to clean their boats, trailers, fishing gear, and equipment thoroughly before launching or using them in state waters. By removing any mud, plants, or other waterborne species, boaters can prevent the unintentional transport of invasive species to new areas.
The DEC's efforts are not just about inspections; they also involve raising awareness about the threat of aquatic invasive plants and animals. Last year, DEC boat stewards interacted with over 430,000 recreational users, conducting more than 220,000 watercraft inspections and intercepting 8,717 aquatic invasive species. This highlights the importance of individual responsibility in protecting our ecosystems.
The issue of aquatic invasive species is not limited to upstate areas. Long Island recreational areas are also vulnerable to the introduction of waterborne invasive species. For instance, the water chestnut, a grass-like sedge native to Asia, tropical Africa, and Oceania, can harm fragile ecosystems by shading out native plants, decreasing dissolved oxygen, and increasing sediment buildup. It has already caused issues in Long Island waters, as reported by Newsday.
Invasive fish, such as the round goby, a bottom-dwelling species native to central Eurasia, also pose a significant threat to biodiversity. These fish spread disease and prey on native fish eggs while out-competing native fish populations. They have already infiltrated non-native locations worldwide, including the Baltic Sea, major Eurasian rivers, and the Great Lakes, where they feed on native freshwater fish.
To combat this, the DEC is expanding its watercraft inspection steward program. Boat stewards and new decontamination units provided by the New York State Canal Corp. are being stationed at a state boat ramp in upstate Verona. This expansion aims to make it easier for boaters to follow the "Clean, Drain, Dry" protocol.
Boaters are reminded to clean mud, plants, and other waterborne species from their equipment, drain all water-hold compartments, dry used items thoroughly, disinfect boats and equipment with heated water if necessary, use only certified non-invasive bait, and never dump aquarium contents or unused bait in any body of water. These simple steps can make a significant difference in protecting our natural environments.
In my opinion, the DEC's campaign is a crucial step towards preserving the health of our aquatic ecosystems. By encouraging boaters to take responsibility, we can prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the biodiversity that makes our state so unique. It's a reminder that even small actions can have a big impact on the environment.
