Community invited to explore Cayuga Lake and stop spread of aquatic invasive species

The Cayuga Lake Watershed Network, in partnership with Paddle-N-More, invites community members to a Guided Paddle & Aquatic Plant Exploration at Myers Park on Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 5:30–7 p.m. (rain date Sept. 18).

This hands-on paddle will give participants the chance to discover the biodiversity in Cayuga Lake while learning how sample, identify, and report aquatic plants. Experts from the Finger Lakes PRISM (Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management) and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation will guide kayakers in spotting both native and invasive species, deepening awareness their role in our ecosystem.

“Exploring Cayuga Lake by kayak is an incredible way to connect with our watershed,” said Liz Kreitinger, Executive Director of the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network. “At the same time, we want to equip people with knowledge and simple actions they can take to protect the lake.”

Event Details

• When: Wednesday, Sept. 10, 5:30 to 7 p.m. (rain date Sept. 18)
• Where: Myers Park, Lansing
• Cost: FREE! (Myers Park entrance fee waived for participants). Use code LOVEYOURLAKE25 at checkout.
• Registration: Required through Paddle-n-More’s booking site using this REGISTRATION LINK, also available at www.cayugalake.org
• Provided: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets courtesy of Paddle-N-More
• What to Bring: Eagerness to learn and to help prevent the spread of invasive species

New Watercraft Cleaning Station at Myers Park, Lansing

In addition to this event, Myers Park in Lansing now offers a free Watercraft Cleaning Station, making it easy for boaters to stop the spread of invasive species. The station is simple to use and available before launching or after hauling out.

Already, the tools at this station has been used over 500 times, reflecting strong community commitment to stewarding our region’s waterways. Similar stations are also available at other high-traffic launches throughout the Finger Lakes.

“We are grateful everyone who takes the time to use this new Watercraft Cleaning Station!” Kreitinger noted. The Myers Park Watercraft Cleaning Station and associated community education are supported by the Tompkins County Soil and Water Conservation District, and a grant from NYS Department of Environmental Conversation.  

Calling all Lake Users! Clean, Drain, and Dry to Protect our Waterways

Hydrilla, recognized as one of the most aggressive aquatic invasive plants in North America, has spread through parts of Cayuga Lake, including around Myers Park. To minimize its spread, along with other invasive species, all boaters and lake users are urged to follow Clean, Drain, Dry practices:

• AVOID boating through mats of hydrilla to prevent fragmentation.
• CLEAN all mud and plant fragments from boats, trailers, propellers, waders, and gear before leaving the water.
• DRAIN all water from boats, live wells, trailers, and gear.
• DRY boats and gear after each use.
• NEVER release aquarium or water garden plants into the wild.

Learn more about aquatic invasive species in the Finger Lakes and learn more about good watercraft stewardship practices in NYS.