NEW FROM NYSDEC: CLEAN, DRAIN AND DRY TO PROTECT NEW YORK'S WATERS

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Clean, Drain, and Dry to Protect New York’s Waters

As you kick off the boating season, don’t forget to take steps to protect New York’s waters! Aquatic invasive species (AIS) can spread between water bodies by attaching to boats and other water recreation equipment. Once introduced, AIS can harm New York’s ecosystems, economies, and recreation. To keep AIS from spreading, New York State law requires boaters to Clean, Drain, and Dry their boat and equipment before using it in a new water body.

After you pull your boat out of the water:Clean mud, plants, and animals off boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment and discard the material in a trash can or disposal station.
Drain water-holding compartments, including ballast tanks, live wells, and bilge areas, before leaving an access site.
Dry everything completely for five to seven days in dry, warm conditions. If drying isn’t possible, visit a decontamination station to disinfect boats and other equipment with hot water that is at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Want to learn more about how to Clean, Drain, Dry? Look for boat stewards in blue vests at boat launches throughout the state. Boat stewards can answer your questions about AIS, provide a free boat inspection for invasive species, and show you how to Clean, Drain, Dry your watercraft and equipment. Visit the NYS Public Boat Launch Map to find a boat steward near you.