The Lake Steward program seeks to prevent the introduction of and/or the spread of three main aquatic invasive species: Water Chestnut, Hydrilla, and Fanwort. Studies have shown that boats and recreational equipment are among the main vectors of aquatic invasive species spread. This high-risk pathway is also one that we have the ability to do something about. While it can be intentional, often times the spread of invasives is unintentional, with the boater not realizing that there are plants or other species attached to the hull of the boat, entangled in the prop, or caught on part of the trailer or other equipment, or that moving these species around will cause a problem.
Lake Stewards, educated in AIS identification and prevention, inspect boats entering the lake at Lee’s County Park Marina, remove any invasive species and educate boaters on how to prevent their spread within our lake and to other lakes. The Lake Hopatcong Lake Steward program aims to educate boaters about the importance of proper vessel maintenance to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) to Lake Hopatcong prevention of AIS is important to the overall health and quality of our lake.
The Lake Hopatcong Lake Steward program was created using the Lake George Lake Steward program as a model. Students at Seton Hall University helped craft the program as part of a partnership between the LHF and the school’s Greenius environmental studies program.
Lake Stewards will not be hired for the 2020 season due to COVID-19. However, the Foundation is working to spread the word about invasive aquatic hitchhikers and clean boating through increased online messaging and local signage.
STOP Aquatic Hitchhikers! CLEAN. DRY. DRAIN.
For ANGLERS, the additional step of DISPOSE is recommended:
Get detailed information about the Clean Drain Dry procedure, including instructions for specific recreational activities HERE.
Find more about the Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers National Campaign.
