The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today joined State partners in Verona, Oneida County, to remind recreationists to Clean, Drain, Dry their boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment before launching in New York’s waters to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). 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,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “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 AIS. As part of an expansion to the Watercraft Inspection Steward Program (WISP), DEC is stationing boat stewards and a new decontamination unit provided by the New York State Canal Corporation at the Cove Road boat ramp in Verona. Opened in 2023 in partnership with the New York State Canal Corporation, this launch offers direct access to Oneida Lake—the state's largest inland lake and a popular fishing destination. The initiative aims to combat the spread of invasive species already present in the lake, such as the round goby and water chestnut, and prevent new invaders. 

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. 

New York State Canal Corporation Director Ben Walsh said, “Keeping invasive species out of the Canal System and the rest of New York's waters isn’t just an environmental priority, it’s a community one. When boaters take the time to Clean, Drain, and Dry their equipment, they’re helping to preserve recreational opportunities and healthy ecosystems that residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come.” 

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. 

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “New York State Parks is proud to support efforts to prevent invasive species from entering our lands and waters through education, stewardship and strong partnerships. We encourage the boating public to follow these simple guidelines and take precautions to protect our natural resources. Through this collaborative effort with DEC and the Canal Corporation, we can continue raising awareness and ensuring these treasured places remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.”   

All New York residents and visitors have a role to play in protecting state waters from invasive species. Visit DEC's website for more information on how to Clean, Drain, Dry boats, fishing gear, and other equipment. A step by step guide for ridding boats and equipment of AIS with video can also be found on DEC's YouTube channel. 

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.  

The WISP program is funded by the State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).  The $425 million EPF included an allocation of $18.5 million to combat invasive species. The EPF is a critical resource for environmental programs such as land acquisition, farmland protection, invasive species prevention and eradication, recreation access, water quality improvement, and environmental justice projects.