Groups To Work Together to Stem Invasive Spread to Lake George

A coalition of local businesses, advocacy organizations and governments are planning to implement their own measures to prevent the spread of invasive species into Lake George.

In January,  the DEC and the Lake George Park Commission announced a strategic plan to address invasive species that was panned by stakeholders.  A public private collaborative  plans to implement their own  measures by the time the boating season begins in order to stem any spread of invasive species. Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky says it’s good the two agencies are looking at the environmental impacts of invasives, but their plan  was not pro active to protect Lake George.

The groups view their effort as a pilot program and emergency measure.  Village of Lake George Mayor Bob Blais feels the New York State DEC and others do not understand the gravity of the situation.

It’s not just the environment at risk from invasive species entering Lake George and the Lake George Association’s Walt Lender says that is  leading to the collaboration’s call for immediate control measures.

Fund For Lake George Executive Director Eric Siy.

There is currently no mandatory boat inspection program for Lake George. The  Lake George Association sponsors voluntary Lake Steward inspections of boats entering the lake.