Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) - New York

Introducing non-native species into state or federally controlled waters can upset the ecosystem and hurt the environment by clogging waterways and crowding out native species.

Invasive quagga and zebra mussels are a particular problem as they reproduce rapidly and destroy fisheries, pollute the beaches and shoreline, and cause damage to boats and equipment.

Reasonable precautions must be taken to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. A number of New York counties, towns and villages prohibit aquatic invasive species (for example, on vessels, trailers or equipment).

You can help prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species from one body of water to another by thoroughly checking, draining, cleaning and drying your boat and trailer.

We recommend that you follow these steps:

• Thoroughly check the boat and trailer and remove any plant or animal matter

• Drain the water from your motor, live well and bilge

• Drain and dry the lower outboard unit

• Wash the hull of the watercraft, the trailer, and all equipment, ensuring that all plants and mud are removed

• Allow all equipment to air dry for as long as possible, at least 7 days in the summer, 18 days during fall or spring, and at least 30 days during winter