Relates to aquatic invasive species and spread prevention

4 Co-sponsors

• Tony Avella
• John J. Bonacic
• Jack M. Martins
• David J. Valesky

BILL NUMBER:S7851B

Title of bill

An act to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to aquatic invasive species, spread prevention, and penalties; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof

Purpose

To amend the Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) by adding a new sections that would require individuals to clean, drain and dry watercrafts and gear when entering and leaving a boat launch site. Recreational boating is one of the primary ways in which invasive species are inadvertently transported overland to new waterways. Taking measures to clean, drain and dry watercrafts and gear after each use is a simple step that should be taken to prevent the spread of invasive species and protect our waterways as well as the industries that depend on them,

Summary of specific provisions

This legislation adds new sections to require the removal of all visible plants and animals from motorized and non-motorized watercraft and related gear when entering and leaving a launch site.

Additionally, the legislation requires the draining of watercrafts, including bilge areas, livewells, bait wells and ballast tanks when entering and leaving a launch site.

Lastly, the legislation authorizes the department to impose a civil penalty on individuals found guilty of violating the provisions set forth in this legislation, provided, however, that for any first violation in lieu of a penalty a written warning shall be issued by the department and written education materials regarding requirements related to invasive species will be provided.

Justification

According to the Department of Environmental Conserva- tion (DEC), aquatic invasive species present a serious threat to our environment and economically important industries such as tourism, and commercial and recreational fishing. These pests kill native plants and animals by carrying harmful diseases or out-competing natural habitat, changing entire ecosystems. Aquatic invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the State's biodiversity - once introduced, these species are nearly impossible to eradicate, and expensive to manage. Nationally, the annual cost to the economy is estimated at $120 billion a year and in New York, managing invasive species has become a signif- icant drain on local economies. It is far more cost-effective to prevent the spread of these species than attempt to control them once they have already been introduced. In addition to the significant economic impact, the growth of invasive species often prevents access to waterways impor- tant for the fishing industry,

Prior legislative history

None

Fiscal implications

Minimal

Effective date

This act shall take effect one year after it shall have become a law, and shall expire and be deemed repealed June 1, 2019. Effective immediately, the addition, amendent, and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the timely implementation of this act on its effective date is authorized to be made on or before such effective date.