Boat Washing and Aquatic Invasive Species Spread Prevention in New York State
For Public Information Via DEC Website.
With the recent discovery of spiny water flea and Asian clam in Lake George and the efforts of the Lake George Park Commission and local municipalities to reduce the likelihood of additional aquatic invasive species (AIS) introductions, the subject of AIS spread prevention has received much media attention. As with many controversial issues, opinions vary on the specific risk that each of these AIS represent to NY waters and the best techniques to combat this risk. The following information provides answers to some of the more commonly asked questions concerning aquatic invasive species. It is designed to assist boat owners and boat access providers in making an informed decision on how they can best help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in New York State.
What is an Aquatic Invasive Species?
According to New York State Environmental Conservation Law an invasive species is a species that is not native to an ecosystem and causes or is likely to cause significant economic or environmental harm, or harm human health. In reality, AIS rarely have any human health implications, but do have the potential to outcompete native species and grow or reproduce to nuisance proportions in a body of water. In certain cases these species may be native to the U.S. or another section of NY, but are not native to the entire state. White perch and alewife are an example of two fish species that are native to the marine and coastal region of NY, but have become problematic when introduced to inland waters. In other cases AIS may be introduced from other regions of the world.
How do these Aquatic Invasive Species get into this country?
Two common ways that this occurs are through the release of species brought to this country via the aquarium industry and in the ballast water discharges from large commercial vessels traveling to the U.S from various other areas of the world. When ballast water is discharged in a waterbody, any organisms found in it are released. AIS may also be brought into this country through the aquaculture and nursery industry.
What is being done to stop these sources of AIS?
Regulations now require ocean-going vessels to flush their ballast tanks with saltwater prior to arrival in the U.S. The State of New York continues to work with the Coast Guard and other Federal authorities to ensure that this significant source of AIS from outside the country is addressed. NYSDEC is also in the process of developing a list of invasive species that cannot be sold in New York State. This will control the sale of potentially problematic species via the aquarium trade, nursery industry and other commercial sources of AIS.
Are boats and trailers potential transport mechanisms for AIS?
Yes for some, but not for all. Many AIS are fish or animal species, or non-submersed plants that do not affix to boating equipment and would therefore not normally be transported on a boat or trailer. The AIS species most likely to be spread via boats are those that can cling to boats and trailers or survive in water found in the boat’s bilge, live wells or bait wells.
Besides boats and trailers, how else might AIS be introduced into a waterbody?
Unfortunately, there are a number of different means by which AIS might find their way into a body of water. These include:
Purposeful introductions by those desiring a certain fish or other form of aquatic life in a
body of water for sport or food
Dumping of baitfish contaminated with AIS
Release of live animals for religious or ceremonial purposes
Dumping of home aquaria and the plants and animals within
Escapes from ornamental fish ponds
Wildlife (entanglement in feathers, fur, etc.)
How do I best prevent the introduction of AIS into a waterbody?
There is no single way to keep all AIS from entering a body of water. As noted in the previous question, boats and trailers are but one way by which AIS can be spread. In developing a plan of action for a particular waterbody, it is best to first determine what species are likely to be introduced into the waterbody, the likelihood of the introduction being successful, the ecological and economic risk from these AIS, and the primary means by which the AIS might be introduced.
Is there one best way to clean or disinfect a boat, trailer or associated equipment?
The most effective way to ensure that a boat or trailer is not transporting aquatic invasive species is to carefully inspect it for clinging invasives, remove any plants and debris identified and thoroughly drain and dry it. During hot, dry summer periods it will usually take about 5 days to completely dry a boat. Drying boating equipment during wetter, cooler periods of the year will take more time. Drying times based on the location in NY and time of year can be estimated at www.100thmeridian.org/emersion.asp . Should you not be able to dry your boat completely, various disinfection techniques are described on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50267.html.I am hearing much about mandatory boat inspection and boat washing programs.
What can you tell me about these programs?
Boat inspections, whether conducted by a boat owner or by a lake steward or other designated individual at a boat launch, are a great way to ensure that boats and trailers are AIS free before they launch or leave a site. Boat washing is a technique that can be used to clean boat hulls and is particularly effective in removing AIS such as zebra mussels that can firmly attach to boat hulls. Proper boat washing entails the use of hot water (140° F), high pressure and a contact time of at least 10 seconds to kill and dislodge the attached mussels. This technique should not be confused with the rinsing of boats with tap water that saltwater anglers commonly complete to remove corrosive salt from boat hulls. Mandatory inspection and boat washing programs are commonly used in western states to combat the expansion of zebra and quagga mussels into large reservoirs important for hydroelectric, drinking water and irrigation. Mussel colonization can complicate the movement of water through canals, dams, pipes, etc. Unlike the states east of the Mississippi where these species are common, zebra and quagga mussels are not yet found in abundance in these western states.
Are there any drawbacks to boat washing programs?
Hot water, high pressure boat washing units can be expensive and beyond the ability of the average boat owner or lake association to afford. These units also require trained staff to operate. Used incorrectly, they can damage boats. Complete disinfection also requires that all water holding compartments, as well as the engine cooling system be flushed with hot water. Users should check to make sure that 140 ° water is compatible with pumps and engine components before disinfection. Flushing inboard engines can be difficult and may require a marine technician to complete. Complete disinfection on larger recreational boats may require 30 minutes or more to complete.
On large bodies of waters with multiple access points it may not be feasible to wash all boats entering or departing a lake. Long lines at boat launches, typical on busy summer weekends at boat launches, will get even longer resulting in many frustrated boaters and decreasing interest in participation in the program. The waste water from washing operations which will include gas, oil and other contaminants will also need to be disposed of in a manner consistent with DEC regulations. If not properly contained, boat wash wastewater and removed AIS can flush into the adjacent waterbody.
What about self-service car washes? Are they effective for removing AIS from boats and trailers?
Car washes typically do not heat water to the recommended 140 ° F and may not have sufficient pressure to dislodge zebra mussels. Depending upon water temperature, a contact time of at least 30 seconds is recommended.
Are there any other alternatives for immediate disinfection?
Household steam cleaners can be effectively used to disinfect small boats and are particularly effective for live wells, bait wells and bilge areas that may be difficult to pressure wash. Larger commercial units can be employed for larger boats or in situations calling for the disinfection of large numbers of boats. The smaller units can usually be purchased for under $200.
Are there any chemical disinfectants that are effective on AIS?
There are no disinfectants available for use by boat owners that are specifically labeled to kill all aquatic invasive species. There are, however, a number of household disinfectants and chemical compounds that can be effective against various AIS and fish diseases. These materials are described on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50267.html .
Are all waters vulnerable to zebra or quagga mussel colonization?
Zebra mussels require at least 12 mg/l (parts per million) of calcium in order to grow and survive and around 20 mg/l to flourish in a body of water. Quagga mussels require even higher concentrations to survive. This is why many hard water western and central NY waters have been colonized by one or both of these species, but other regions of the state such as the Adirondacks and Long Island with softer water have not had problems with these invasive mussels. This is the primary reason why zebra mussels have not become problematic after being introduced into Lake George.
What about Asian clam. I understand that this species can be problematic because it can cause algae blooms?
Asian clam have been found in New York State for over 30 years, including major waters such as Seneca Lake, Owasco Lake, Otisco Lake, Canandaigua Lake and Chautauqua Lake. They are not overly abundant in any of the waters they have been found in and appear be coexisting with native clam species. Although Asian clam have been blamed for an increase in algae in certain sections of Lake Tahoe in California, no such blooms have been noted in New York waters.
Can this species be spread by boats?
Unlike zebra and quagga mussels, Asian clam do not affix to boat hulls. Larval Asian Clam also do not spend a significant time floating around in the water column and are much less likely to be sucked up in the water intake of a marine engine. They may, however, be found in the mud and sand, or vegetation scooped up by boat anchors, or possibly in water in a boat’s bilge, live wells or bait wells. Asian clam were first reported in NY in small ponds on Long Island that do not permit boat use.
If it is unlikely that they are spread by boats, how are they introduced and spread?
Asian clams are a popular ethnic food item and it is believed that they may be purposefully introduced by individuals desiring to grow them for food. They are also sold as good luck clams, or golden clams in the aquarium trade and may be introduced when aquaria are dumped into a waterbody or released in ceremonies. As mentioned previously, although they do not affix to boats they can find their way into lake water found in the boat’s water holding compartments and may also be found in the sediment of plants scooped up by boat anchors. Be sure to clean all boating equipment and drain and dry water holding compartments.
What about the various aquatic invasive plant species such as Eurasian watermilfoil and curly-leaf pondweed? Are all waters at risk from these species?
Although many of the invasive plant species will grow in most New York waters, not all will grow to nuisance proportions. Many of these species grow best in disturbed or nutrient enriched segments of lakes (ie. outlet or inlet areas) and do best when they do not compete with other native plants. Eurasian watermilfoil, for example, prefers waters with high phosphorus levels. Many nutrient poor Adirondack lakes have had water milfoil for years and it has never reached nuisance levels. This is why it is extremely important to limit nutrient and sediment inputs to lakes from stormwater runoff and septic systems. If these inputs are not addressed, nutrients will eventually build up to the point that they can fuel AIS growth.
So just because a species known to be an AIS has been found in a lake or pond, it may not become a problem?
Correct. However, since it is very difficult to predict how an AIS will react in a body of water, it is best to prevent its introduction in the first place. In some waters, aquatic plant species can grow to such high levels that boating and swimming are virtually impossible, while in others they grow at levels similar to native plant species. Not all of the impacts associated with AIS may be considered negative by lake users. For example, zebra mussels can clog water intake pipes and can cause problems on swimming beaches due to their sharp shells. However, their ability to filter nutrients and algae can significantly improve water clarity and the aesthetic appeal of a body of water. Unfortunately this usually comes at a cost, as young fish are heavily dependent on algae for food and their growth rates can be impacted when these populations are reduced.
What kind of problems might I expect should AIS become established in a waterbody?
As mentioned previously, it is difficult to predict what the impact of an AIS introduction will be in a particular waterbody. Impacts vary by species and can be influenced by a number of factors including nutrient concentrations in the water and sediment, sediment type, water depth and competing native species. In nutrient rich (eutrophic) waters introduced plant species can grow to the point that they can restrict or prevent boating and swimming, reduce water flow and provide a habitat for surface algae blooms. Zebra mussels can cover all of the hard surfaces on a lake bottom. Their shells can be sharp and although they will not colonize sandy surfaces, shells of dead clams can cause problems on wimming beaches. Zebra mussels are filter feeders, removing plankton and nutrients from the water column and outcompeting native mussels. This can significantly increase water clarity and expand existing beds of aquatic plants. Zooplankton (microscopic animal) species such as spiny and fishhook water flea, primarily impact recreational fishing by accumulating on fishing line, clogging line guides on rods and potentially altering the food supply for certain sportfish species. Invasive fish species impact recreational fishing by outcompeting native species. Many brook trout fisheries have been destroyed in New York State by the introduction of non-native fish species.
What are some of the species I should be on the look-out for in New York State?
Plant Species: Hydrilla, Eurasian watermilfoil, water chestnut, curly-leaf pondweed, didymo, fanwort, Brazilian elodea, brittle naiad, European frogbit, parrot feather, creeping water primrose, starry stonewort, variable leaf watermilfoil. Animal Species: Zebra mussel, quagga mussel, Asian clam, fishhook waterflea, spiny waterflea, bloody red shrimp, round goby, alewife, white perch.
Where can I find additional information on these species?
A wealth of information on aquatic invasive species can be found on the web. DEC provides ID and distribution information, as well as cleaning advice for these species at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50272.html. Also, the online New York Invasive Species Clearinghouse www.nyis.info/ , a partnership with Cornell University, is a good place to learn about invasive species.
What advice can you provide to individual boaters concerning measures they can take to ensure that their boats do not transport aquatic invasive species?
As mentioned previously, the best way to ensure that boats, trailers or other equipment do not transport AIS is to make sure that they are completely dry prior to use in another waterbody. A minimum drying time of 5 days is recommended, although longer periods may be required depending upon the season and weather conditions. Recommended drying times for various seasons and locations within New York State can be found at 100thmeridian.org/emersion.asp. Boaters and anglers are also encouraged to download “A New York Boaters Guide to Cleaning, Drying and Disinfecting Boating Equipment” from the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/docs/fish_marine_pdf/boatdisinfect.pdf .
We maintain a boat launch as part of a small lake association and want to make certain that boats and trailers do not introduce AIS to our lake. What do you recommend?
Train and employ a boat launch steward. A steward can determine if a boat is drained and dry before launching and detect any AIS that might be clinging to the boat and trailer. If AIS are detected, the boater can be directed to use he appropriate method to address the problem before being permitted to launch. We also recommend that your lake association install an invasive species disposal station and post signage and other information on AIS. Plans and template signs can be found on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50626.html.
What is DEC doing to combat the spread of AIS in New York State?
As noted previously, DEC is currently involved in an effort to identify plant and animal species that could be problematic in New York State and regulate the sale of these species. DEC is also developing regulations that will prohibit boats and trailers that have not been drained or that have AIS clinging to them from launching at or leaving DEC facilities. DEC was also the first agency in the country to install Nuisance Invasive Species Disposal Stations at its boat launches. These stations provide a dedicated location for disposal of AIS and also serve as a billboard reminding anglers and boaters to clean, drain and dry their boats. DEC is also collaborating with DMV by including a tip strip concerning AIS spread prevention in every trailer registration reminder. Additionally, DEC is currently in the process of updating the New York State Invasive Species Plan. This plan will guide future invasive species control efforts in New York State. Does DEC provide signage or other information concerning AIS spread prevention? Information concerning AIS in New York State and methods to prevent their spread can be found at the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50121.html. Information provided includes the downloadable publication “A New York Boaters Guide to Cleaning, Drying and Disinfecting Boating Equipment.” Various signs reminding boaters to Clean, Drain and Dry their boats can also be downloaded at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/85939.html .
How Can I Help?
DEC will never have enough enforcement personnel to watch over every potential source of AIS or every waterbody into which they might be introduced 24 hrs per day, 365 days per year. It is important that you report any illegal activities associated with the purchase, sale or introduction of AIS in New York State. If you find an AIS in your waterbody, please report it to your nearest DEC office in case this location is not known. You should also consider volunteering for your local Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) @ www.nyis.info/index.php to help this private-public partnership to better address AIS issues in your region. Always make others aware of the significance of this issue and the role they play in preventing additional spread of AIS. Most importantly, if you are a boater please be sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your boat before using it.
With the recent discovery of spiny water flea and Asian clam in Lake George and the efforts of the Lake George Park Commission and local municipalities to reduce the likelihood of additional aquatic invasive species (AIS) introductions, the subject of AIS spread prevention has received much media attention. As with many controversial issues, opinions vary on the specific risk that each of these AIS represent to NY waters and the best techniques to combat this risk. The following information provides answers to some of the more commonly asked questions concerning aquatic invasive species. It is designed to assist boat owners and boat access providers in making an informed decision on how they can best help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in New York State.
What is an Aquatic Invasive Species?
According to New York State Environmental Conservation Law an invasive species is a species that is not native to an ecosystem and causes or is likely to cause significant economic or environmental harm, or harm human health. In reality, AIS rarely have any human health implications, but do have the potential to outcompete native species and grow or reproduce to nuisance proportions in a body of water. In certain cases these species may be native to the U.S. or another section of NY, but are not native to the entire state. White perch and alewife are an example of two fish species that are native to the marine and coastal region of NY, but have become problematic when introduced to inland waters. In other cases AIS may be introduced from other regions of the world.
How do these Aquatic Invasive Species get into this country?
Two common ways that this occurs are through the release of species brought to this country via the aquarium industry and in the ballast water discharges from large commercial vessels traveling to the U.S from various other areas of the world. When ballast water is discharged in a waterbody, any organisms found in it are released. AIS may also be brought into this country through the aquaculture and nursery industry.
What is being done to stop these sources of AIS?
Regulations now require ocean-going vessels to flush their ballast tanks with saltwater prior to arrival in the U.S. The State of New York continues to work with the Coast Guard and other Federal authorities to ensure that this significant source of AIS from outside the country is addressed. NYSDEC is also in the process of developing a list of invasive species that cannot be sold in New York State. This will control the sale of potentially problematic species via the aquarium trade, nursery industry and other commercial sources of AIS.
Are boats and trailers potential transport mechanisms for AIS?
Yes for some, but not for all. Many AIS are fish or animal species, or non-submersed plants that do not affix to boating equipment and would therefore not normally be transported on a boat or trailer. The AIS species most likely to be spread via boats are those that can cling to boats and trailers or survive in water found in the boat’s bilge, live wells or bait wells.
Besides boats and trailers, how else might AIS be introduced into a waterbody?
Unfortunately, there are a number of different means by which AIS might find their way into a body of water. These include:
Purposeful introductions by those desiring a certain fish or other form of aquatic life in a
body of water for sport or food
Dumping of baitfish contaminated with AIS
Release of live animals for religious or ceremonial purposes
Dumping of home aquaria and the plants and animals within
Escapes from ornamental fish ponds
Wildlife (entanglement in feathers, fur, etc.)
How do I best prevent the introduction of AIS into a waterbody?
There is no single way to keep all AIS from entering a body of water. As noted in the previous question, boats and trailers are but one way by which AIS can be spread. In developing a plan of action for a particular waterbody, it is best to first determine what species are likely to be introduced into the waterbody, the likelihood of the introduction being successful, the ecological and economic risk from these AIS, and the primary means by which the AIS might be introduced.
Is there one best way to clean or disinfect a boat, trailer or associated equipment?
The most effective way to ensure that a boat or trailer is not transporting aquatic invasive species is to carefully inspect it for clinging invasives, remove any plants and debris identified and thoroughly drain and dry it. During hot, dry summer periods it will usually take about 5 days to completely dry a boat. Drying boating equipment during wetter, cooler periods of the year will take more time. Drying times based on the location in NY and time of year can be estimated at www.100thmeridian.org/emersion.asp . Should you not be able to dry your boat completely, various disinfection techniques are described on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50267.html.I am hearing much about mandatory boat inspection and boat washing programs.
What can you tell me about these programs?
Boat inspections, whether conducted by a boat owner or by a lake steward or other designated individual at a boat launch, are a great way to ensure that boats and trailers are AIS free before they launch or leave a site. Boat washing is a technique that can be used to clean boat hulls and is particularly effective in removing AIS such as zebra mussels that can firmly attach to boat hulls. Proper boat washing entails the use of hot water (140° F), high pressure and a contact time of at least 10 seconds to kill and dislodge the attached mussels. This technique should not be confused with the rinsing of boats with tap water that saltwater anglers commonly complete to remove corrosive salt from boat hulls. Mandatory inspection and boat washing programs are commonly used in western states to combat the expansion of zebra and quagga mussels into large reservoirs important for hydroelectric, drinking water and irrigation. Mussel colonization can complicate the movement of water through canals, dams, pipes, etc. Unlike the states east of the Mississippi where these species are common, zebra and quagga mussels are not yet found in abundance in these western states.
Are there any drawbacks to boat washing programs?
Hot water, high pressure boat washing units can be expensive and beyond the ability of the average boat owner or lake association to afford. These units also require trained staff to operate. Used incorrectly, they can damage boats. Complete disinfection also requires that all water holding compartments, as well as the engine cooling system be flushed with hot water. Users should check to make sure that 140 ° water is compatible with pumps and engine components before disinfection. Flushing inboard engines can be difficult and may require a marine technician to complete. Complete disinfection on larger recreational boats may require 30 minutes or more to complete.
On large bodies of waters with multiple access points it may not be feasible to wash all boats entering or departing a lake. Long lines at boat launches, typical on busy summer weekends at boat launches, will get even longer resulting in many frustrated boaters and decreasing interest in participation in the program. The waste water from washing operations which will include gas, oil and other contaminants will also need to be disposed of in a manner consistent with DEC regulations. If not properly contained, boat wash wastewater and removed AIS can flush into the adjacent waterbody.
What about self-service car washes? Are they effective for removing AIS from boats and trailers?
Car washes typically do not heat water to the recommended 140 ° F and may not have sufficient pressure to dislodge zebra mussels. Depending upon water temperature, a contact time of at least 30 seconds is recommended.
Are there any other alternatives for immediate disinfection?
Household steam cleaners can be effectively used to disinfect small boats and are particularly effective for live wells, bait wells and bilge areas that may be difficult to pressure wash. Larger commercial units can be employed for larger boats or in situations calling for the disinfection of large numbers of boats. The smaller units can usually be purchased for under $200.
Are there any chemical disinfectants that are effective on AIS?
There are no disinfectants available for use by boat owners that are specifically labeled to kill all aquatic invasive species. There are, however, a number of household disinfectants and chemical compounds that can be effective against various AIS and fish diseases. These materials are described on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50267.html .
Are all waters vulnerable to zebra or quagga mussel colonization?
Zebra mussels require at least 12 mg/l (parts per million) of calcium in order to grow and survive and around 20 mg/l to flourish in a body of water. Quagga mussels require even higher concentrations to survive. This is why many hard water western and central NY waters have been colonized by one or both of these species, but other regions of the state such as the Adirondacks and Long Island with softer water have not had problems with these invasive mussels. This is the primary reason why zebra mussels have not become problematic after being introduced into Lake George.
What about Asian clam. I understand that this species can be problematic because it can cause algae blooms?
Asian clam have been found in New York State for over 30 years, including major waters such as Seneca Lake, Owasco Lake, Otisco Lake, Canandaigua Lake and Chautauqua Lake. They are not overly abundant in any of the waters they have been found in and appear be coexisting with native clam species. Although Asian clam have been blamed for an increase in algae in certain sections of Lake Tahoe in California, no such blooms have been noted in New York waters.
Can this species be spread by boats?
Unlike zebra and quagga mussels, Asian clam do not affix to boat hulls. Larval Asian Clam also do not spend a significant time floating around in the water column and are much less likely to be sucked up in the water intake of a marine engine. They may, however, be found in the mud and sand, or vegetation scooped up by boat anchors, or possibly in water in a boat’s bilge, live wells or bait wells. Asian clam were first reported in NY in small ponds on Long Island that do not permit boat use.
If it is unlikely that they are spread by boats, how are they introduced and spread?
Asian clams are a popular ethnic food item and it is believed that they may be purposefully introduced by individuals desiring to grow them for food. They are also sold as good luck clams, or golden clams in the aquarium trade and may be introduced when aquaria are dumped into a waterbody or released in ceremonies. As mentioned previously, although they do not affix to boats they can find their way into lake water found in the boat’s water holding compartments and may also be found in the sediment of plants scooped up by boat anchors. Be sure to clean all boating equipment and drain and dry water holding compartments.
What about the various aquatic invasive plant species such as Eurasian watermilfoil and curly-leaf pondweed? Are all waters at risk from these species?
Although many of the invasive plant species will grow in most New York waters, not all will grow to nuisance proportions. Many of these species grow best in disturbed or nutrient enriched segments of lakes (ie. outlet or inlet areas) and do best when they do not compete with other native plants. Eurasian watermilfoil, for example, prefers waters with high phosphorus levels. Many nutrient poor Adirondack lakes have had water milfoil for years and it has never reached nuisance levels. This is why it is extremely important to limit nutrient and sediment inputs to lakes from stormwater runoff and septic systems. If these inputs are not addressed, nutrients will eventually build up to the point that they can fuel AIS growth.
So just because a species known to be an AIS has been found in a lake or pond, it may not become a problem?
Correct. However, since it is very difficult to predict how an AIS will react in a body of water, it is best to prevent its introduction in the first place. In some waters, aquatic plant species can grow to such high levels that boating and swimming are virtually impossible, while in others they grow at levels similar to native plant species. Not all of the impacts associated with AIS may be considered negative by lake users. For example, zebra mussels can clog water intake pipes and can cause problems on swimming beaches due to their sharp shells. However, their ability to filter nutrients and algae can significantly improve water clarity and the aesthetic appeal of a body of water. Unfortunately this usually comes at a cost, as young fish are heavily dependent on algae for food and their growth rates can be impacted when these populations are reduced.
What kind of problems might I expect should AIS become established in a waterbody?
As mentioned previously, it is difficult to predict what the impact of an AIS introduction will be in a particular waterbody. Impacts vary by species and can be influenced by a number of factors including nutrient concentrations in the water and sediment, sediment type, water depth and competing native species. In nutrient rich (eutrophic) waters introduced plant species can grow to the point that they can restrict or prevent boating and swimming, reduce water flow and provide a habitat for surface algae blooms. Zebra mussels can cover all of the hard surfaces on a lake bottom. Their shells can be sharp and although they will not colonize sandy surfaces, shells of dead clams can cause problems on wimming beaches. Zebra mussels are filter feeders, removing plankton and nutrients from the water column and outcompeting native mussels. This can significantly increase water clarity and expand existing beds of aquatic plants. Zooplankton (microscopic animal) species such as spiny and fishhook water flea, primarily impact recreational fishing by accumulating on fishing line, clogging line guides on rods and potentially altering the food supply for certain sportfish species. Invasive fish species impact recreational fishing by outcompeting native species. Many brook trout fisheries have been destroyed in New York State by the introduction of non-native fish species.
What are some of the species I should be on the look-out for in New York State?
Plant Species: Hydrilla, Eurasian watermilfoil, water chestnut, curly-leaf pondweed, didymo, fanwort, Brazilian elodea, brittle naiad, European frogbit, parrot feather, creeping water primrose, starry stonewort, variable leaf watermilfoil. Animal Species: Zebra mussel, quagga mussel, Asian clam, fishhook waterflea, spiny waterflea, bloody red shrimp, round goby, alewife, white perch.
Where can I find additional information on these species?
A wealth of information on aquatic invasive species can be found on the web. DEC provides ID and distribution information, as well as cleaning advice for these species at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50272.html. Also, the online New York Invasive Species Clearinghouse www.nyis.info/ , a partnership with Cornell University, is a good place to learn about invasive species.
What advice can you provide to individual boaters concerning measures they can take to ensure that their boats do not transport aquatic invasive species?
As mentioned previously, the best way to ensure that boats, trailers or other equipment do not transport AIS is to make sure that they are completely dry prior to use in another waterbody. A minimum drying time of 5 days is recommended, although longer periods may be required depending upon the season and weather conditions. Recommended drying times for various seasons and locations within New York State can be found at 100thmeridian.org/emersion.asp. Boaters and anglers are also encouraged to download “A New York Boaters Guide to Cleaning, Drying and Disinfecting Boating Equipment” from the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/docs/fish_marine_pdf/boatdisinfect.pdf .
We maintain a boat launch as part of a small lake association and want to make certain that boats and trailers do not introduce AIS to our lake. What do you recommend?
Train and employ a boat launch steward. A steward can determine if a boat is drained and dry before launching and detect any AIS that might be clinging to the boat and trailer. If AIS are detected, the boater can be directed to use he appropriate method to address the problem before being permitted to launch. We also recommend that your lake association install an invasive species disposal station and post signage and other information on AIS. Plans and template signs can be found on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50626.html.
What is DEC doing to combat the spread of AIS in New York State?
As noted previously, DEC is currently involved in an effort to identify plant and animal species that could be problematic in New York State and regulate the sale of these species. DEC is also developing regulations that will prohibit boats and trailers that have not been drained or that have AIS clinging to them from launching at or leaving DEC facilities. DEC was also the first agency in the country to install Nuisance Invasive Species Disposal Stations at its boat launches. These stations provide a dedicated location for disposal of AIS and also serve as a billboard reminding anglers and boaters to clean, drain and dry their boats. DEC is also collaborating with DMV by including a tip strip concerning AIS spread prevention in every trailer registration reminder. Additionally, DEC is currently in the process of updating the New York State Invasive Species Plan. This plan will guide future invasive species control efforts in New York State. Does DEC provide signage or other information concerning AIS spread prevention? Information concerning AIS in New York State and methods to prevent their spread can be found at the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/50121.html. Information provided includes the downloadable publication “A New York Boaters Guide to Cleaning, Drying and Disinfecting Boating Equipment.” Various signs reminding boaters to Clean, Drain and Dry their boats can also be downloaded at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/85939.html .
How Can I Help?
DEC will never have enough enforcement personnel to watch over every potential source of AIS or every waterbody into which they might be introduced 24 hrs per day, 365 days per year. It is important that you report any illegal activities associated with the purchase, sale or introduction of AIS in New York State. If you find an AIS in your waterbody, please report it to your nearest DEC office in case this location is not known. You should also consider volunteering for your local Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) @ www.nyis.info/index.php to help this private-public partnership to better address AIS issues in your region. Always make others aware of the significance of this issue and the role they play in preventing additional spread of AIS. Most importantly, if you are a boater please be sure to Clean, Drain and Dry your boat before using it.