WHAT ARE AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES?
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants and animals that threaten native plants, wildlife, and their habitat. Fourteen AIS have already entered Canandaigua Lake, the most familiar is the Zebra mussel. There are many other AIS, such as Hydrilla, found in nearby waterways that could easily be transported to our lake on boats and trailers and have the potential to cause severe harm to Canandaigua Lake.
Once AIS are established, eradication is almost impossible. Many invasives may have a direct impact on boating and fishing areas, raising the concern of reducing water quality and reduced property values. Tourism may also be impacted when invasives are established.
CLWA works to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species by partnering with the Watershed Council, the Finger Lakes Institue, NYS Parks, and the NYS DEC by offering a Watercraft Steward Program at the lake’s two busiest launch sites, the Canandaigua Lake State Marine Park and the DEC boat launch in Woodville. Stewards are on duty 7 days a week to assist with boat inspections to help ensure you are launching a clean watercraft!
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Help protect Canandaigua Lake by following a few simple steps when boating.
CLEAN.
Remove all visible plants, animals, fish and mud from your boat trailer or other equipment and place in a disposal station, trash container or on dry land. Don’t forget to check your anchor!
DRAIN.
Drain all lake water holding compartments including bilge areas, live wells, and ballast tanks before leaving the launch.
DRY.
Dry all boats, trailers and equipment before use in another waterbody. Five days dry time is recommended.
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES ESTABLISHED
IN THE CANANDAIGUA LAKE WATERSHED:
Plants
Curlyleaf pondweed *
European frogbit
Eurasian water milfoil*
Mosquito fern
Starry Stonewort
Water chestnut (found in the West River in 2013)
Yellow Iris
Animals
Fishhook waterflea
Chinese mystery snail
Banded mystery snail
Zebra mussel
Quagga mussel
Asian clam
Rusty crayfish
Common carp *
European rudd
Alewife *
* Naturalized from long residence, forming stable, re-producing populations
INVASIVE SPECIES GUIDE FOR CANANDAIGUA LAKE
To learn more about the aquatic and terrestrial invasive species of concern for the Canandaigua Lake Watershed, download a copy of this handy field guide.
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES VIDEOS, PRESENTATIONS, AND FURTHER INFORMATION
CLWA partners with state agencies and local organizations to share information on invasive species through events, webinars, and educational outreach.