As the warmer weather arrives, boaters in New York State are again being reminded to make sure their crafts aren’t carrying any unwanted passengers when they are moved to new waterways.

Invasive species like the Zebra Mussel and Spiny Waterflea can easily be transported on boats from an infested lake, river or pond to uncontaminated bodies of water.

Governor Andrew Cuomo says $2 million in grants is being made available to local cities, towns, non-profit groups and colleges for programs that educate boaters about the threat of invasive animals and plants.

Funding is also going to boat decontamination stations to completely clean vessels before they are moved.

Invasive animals and plants can compete with native species for food and space and, in some cases, wipe out native populations.

 

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