Free boat inspections and decontaminations are being offered at more than 60 locations across the Adirondack region to help the public stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Decontamination stations and boat inspection locations are also located at popular boat launches throughout the Adirondacks.

Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute (PSC AWI) is working to implement the state’s Adirondack Aquatic Invasive Species Spread Prevention Program and help the public be in compliance with new invasive species regulations. The invasive species spread prevention law prohibits invasive plants and animals on boats launching into New York State lakes, ponds and rivers.

The newest and most high profile boat inspection and decontamination station recently opened at the Adirondacks Welcome Center on Interstate 87 northbound near Exit 18 in Glens Falls. This newly constructed station offers easily accessible services and will save boaters time when they arrive at their favorite launch site. PSC AWI staff will inspect boats, educate visitors about aquatic invasive species, and decontaminate any boat to meet the Clean, Drain, and Dry standard required by New York State.

The boat inspection and decontamination stations are cooperatively funded by New York State’s Environmental Protection Fund, USEPA-Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Lake Champlain Basin Program, numerous Lake Associations, private foundations, and municipalities.

More information and a map of inspection and decontamination station locations is available online.

Photo of boat inspection courtesy Lake George Association.