ALBANY, NY — As part of an effort to prevent invasive species from entering and damaging New York water bodies, the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) on June 8 adopted new regulations that require boaters to remove all visible plant and animal materials from boats, trailers and associated equipment, and to drain boats prior to launching from DEC lands.

The regulations, which are effective now, pertain to all DEC boat launches, fishing access sites and other DEC lands where watercraft such as boats, kayaks or canoes can be launched into the water.

DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said, “Boats, trailers and associated equipment are common pathways for spreading aquatic invasive species. These new regulations will help reinforce the message that boaters need to clean their equipment of any clinging plant and animal materials and drain their boats prior to launching at lands administered by DEC.”