The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will begin closing the gates at the Mossy Point and Rogers Rock Boat Launches on Lake George on Sept. 6 as part of a pilot program to increase protection from aquatic invasive species on the lake, DEC Regional Director Bob Stegemann announced today. The overnight closure will continue through the month of October.

“DEC and the Lake George Park Commission are seeking to balance protecting the lake from aquatic invasive species and providing public access for boating,” said Director Stegemann. “The information we gather during the pilot program will inform a more permanent program for next year’s boating season and support the state’s ongoing efforts to protect Lake George from invasive pests.”

Boat launch stewards from the Lake George Park Commission will be present during the hours the boat launches  are open to inspect boats, trailers, and equipment for the presence of aquatic invasive species and to educate boaters of the importance of Clean, Drain, and Dry (www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/92700.html).

Boat launch stewards will open and close the gates at the boat launches as follows:

9/6 – 9/20      5am-8pm
9/21 – 10/11    6am-7pm
10/12 – 10/31   7am-6pm            

This schedule is subject to change. Check the Lake George Park Commission website (https://lgpc.ny.gov/) for the most current information.

A callbox is located next to the door of the Lake George Park Commission shed at each of the boat launches. Boaters who do not get off the water until after the gate is closed can use the callbox. Calls will go directly to the DEC Emergency Dispatch. A DEC Dispatcher will provide the caller with instructions for opening the gate.

The callboxes were provided by the Fund for Lake George.