Search DEC Home » Public Involvement and News » Press Releases » DEC Reminds Water Recreationists to Clean, Drain, and Dry Watercraft and Equipment to Protect New York's Waters from Invasive Species For Release: Wednesday, May 26, 2021 DEC Reminds Water Recreationists to Clean, Drain, and Dry Watercraft and Equipment to Protect New York's Waters from Invasive Species Boat Stewards to Conduct Boat Inspections and Educate Recreating Public at Boat Launches Statewide As this year's boating season officially kicks off, Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded water recreationists to do their part in protecting New York's waters from aquatic invasive species (AIS) by remembering to clean, drain, and dry watercraft and equipment. Last year, boater traffic increased by nearly 20 percent at some launches and boat stewards counted more than 390,000 boats at launches across the state, a significant increase from the 276,515 watercraft counted in 2019. DEC anticipates more boaters will hit the water this season and with them an increased risk of introducing AIS to New York's waters. Taking proactive steps such as cleaning off fishing tackle, removing aquatic vegetation from rudders, disinfecting boat hulls and water compartments, and properly disposing of bait, significantly reduces that risk.