Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species "AIS" Prevention is Key!

Let us all do our part to help protect Chase’s Lake from Aquatic Invasive Species. "AIS" are plants and animals that are not native to the Adirondacks and can disrupt lake ecosystems and cause harm to native species. Changes to our lake ecosystem can cause significant recreation, aesthetic, and economic issues. Once an aquatic invasive species has invaded a lake it is almost impossible to remove it – the best way to protect against AIS is not to allow them to gain access in the first place. This makes prevention especially important.

The biggest threats to our lake are from:
(a) using our boats in another body of water, and
(b) boats brought to Chase’s Lake by family and friends.

If possible, boats that use our lake should stay at the lake. If you take your canoe or kayak to other lakes and streams, please follow these three easy steps to help avoid the spread of AIS.

Clean: When you get your boat, kayak, paddle board, sailboat or canoe out of the water, inspect it to make sure there are no plants, mud or debris. If you find anything, remove it and dispose of it in the trash or on dry land away from the water before bringing it back to Chase’s Lake. The household cleaners/disinfectants "Formula 409" and "Fantastik" contain chemicals that can remove AIS. Other options are a 10% bleach to water solution, or if available, hot pressurized water of at least 140 F.

Drain: Do not inadvertently transfer water from one lake to another. Drain all bilge water, and standing water in your boat at the lake you are at. If you have been fishing, make sure your bait buckets and internal compartments are drained cleaned, and dried as well. If you are bringing home fish from another lake, transport them on ice, not in a bucket of water. If you are in a kayak, tip it upside down to make sure all the water is removed. Do not transfer bait fish from one lake to be used in Chase’s Lake.

Dry: Use a rag or towel to dry your boat. Most AIS can only survive in wet conditions, so this is one of the best ways to prevent their spread. If a visitor brings a boat to Chase’s Lake, please have them follow these same steps BEFORE putting their canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat in the water, and have them do so as far as possible from the shoreline.

Currently, we believe our lake is free of invasive species, but it may only be a matter of time before their presence is detected. Looking out for unusual aquatic vegetation is something we can do while boating this season. More information on AIS will be provided at our annual meeting this summer.