As 2023 boating and fishing seasons get underway, New York State DEC reminds to clean, drain and dry

If you’re going to be boating this spring and summer on New York State waters, the DEC reminds to clean, drain and dry.

It’s to help protect waters and local ecosystems from aquatic invasive species (AIS). "The Watercraft Inspection Steward Program continues to play a significant role in defending lakes, ponds, and rivers against the spread of AIS," said Commissioner Seggos.

"Our boat stewards have successfully increased public awareness about the threats of AIS and helping more New Yorkers participate in best management practices such as Clean. Drain. Dry. I ask all New York residents and visitors to please continue to do your part in protecting our waters from the negative impacts of invasive species."

Boat stewards will be stationed at more than 200 boat launches and decontamination stations throughout the state by Memorial Day weekend.

Identified by their blue vests, boat stewards can provide a refresher on how to inspect your boat and gear and offer information on AIS in New York.

Last year, DEC's boat stewards inspected more than 220,000 boats and intercepted more than 8,000 AIS. View the DEC’s interactive map to find a boat steward or decontamination site nearest you.

Check:

Check your boating and fishing equipment for invasive species.

Carefully examine common attachment points such as trailer bunks, axles, rollers, lights, transducer, license plate, and motor props for any plants, mud, or debris.

If your boat has been used in a waterbody known to have zebra mussels, run your hand along the hull. If it feels like sandpaper, it likely has mussels attached.

Also inspect all gear used during your trip, including fishing gear and anchor lines.

Clean:

Clean any visible mud, plants, fish or animals before transporting equipment.

Discard materials in an upland area or in one of the invasive species disposal stations that have been installed at many boat launch sites for your convenience. Do not wash or release material into a waterbody.

Some invasive species, such as zebra mussels, can be difficult to remove from a boat hull. They first need to be killed by water or steam that is 140 degrees F, then they need to be removed by a brush or pressure washer. For help cleaning your boat and equipment, visit a decontamination station for a free boat wash (leaves DEC website).

Dump unused bait in trash cans and bucket water on dry land, not in the water.

Drain:

Draining a boat: Drain all water holding compartments including ballast tanks, live wells, and bilge areas.

Drain your boat before you leave an access site.

Be sure to drain boat ballast tanks if your waterski or wakeboard has them.

Drain your live well if you have one.

Dry:

Dry boats, trailers and all equipment before use in another waterbody. The most effective way to ensure that no invasive species or fish diseases are transported to a new body of water is to completely dry your boating and fishing equipment.

Drying times vary significantly depending on the type of equipment, air temperature, and relative humidity.

While the outside of a boat will dry relatively quickly, bilge, live wells, and other parts of a boat not reached by the sun or lacking good air circulation will take additional time to dry completely.

A minimum of 5-7 days drying time in dry, warm conditions is recommended.

Disinfect:

Disinfect anything that came into contact with water if it cannot be dried before reuse.

Hot water is an effective disinfection agent for all aquatic invasive species and fish diseases. Soak all equipment in water that is at least 140 degrees F for 30 seconds.

Image via the New York State DEC.