tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32865261102384773352024-03-19T06:45:14.507-04:00New York Sea Grant's Launch Steward Program: STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS!The New York Sea Grant (NYSG) managed Launch Steward Program teaches boaters how to look for, remove and properly dispose of aquatic hitchhikers to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. NYSG Launch Stewards are stationed at select boat launches along Lake Ontario from Wayne County to Jefferson County and inland on Oneida Lake and the Salmon River Reservoir.
This blog will provide a glimpse into steward activities while providing prevention tips.Mary E Penneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04457543021480552120noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-76815523120571191482014-11-26T10:49:00.000-05:002014-11-26T10:49:31.328-05:00New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook<b style="font-family: 'Arial Bold';">PRESS RELEASE:</b><span style="font-family: 'Arial Bold';">
October 16, 2014</span><br />
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Contacts:</div>
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<li>Author Mary Penney, New York Sea Grant, (315)-312-3042</li>
<li>Cornell University Cooperative Extension Invasive Species
Programs Coordinator Chuck O’Neill, (585)-831-6165</li>
<li>For Photos/Assistance: Publicist Kara Lynn Dunn, (315)-465-7578, <a href="mailto:karalynn@gisco.net">karalynn@gisco.net</a></li>
<li>Additional contacts listed at end of release</li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial Bold";">Direct link to handbook:</span></b> <a href="http://www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515">www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial Bold'; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">New York State
Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook Now Available to Start New
Programs, Standardize Training </span></span></h2>
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Ithaca/Oswego, NY. October 16, 2014.<span style="font-family: "Arial Bold";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>New York Sea Grant Extension and the
Cornell University Cooperative Extension Invasive Species Program have
published a New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook. The
81-page, illustrated guide is the standardized model for starting new
watercraft inspection programs and includes a Watercraft Inspection Steward
Training and Field Guide section. </div>
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This new steward program development handbook is an
important tool for use in fighting the running battle with aquatic invasive
species,’ says Chuck O’Neill, New York State Invasive Species Clearinghouse
Director and Cornell University Extension Invasive Species Program Coordinator.</div>
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O’Neill defines aquatic invasive species, also called AIS,
as non-native fish, plants, and microorganisms that are likely to cause harm to
the economy, environment or human health in the area where they are introduced.
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The goal of watercraft inspection is to prevent and slow the
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The direct link to the handbook is <a href="http://www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515">www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515</a>. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Bold";">MORE INFO:</span></h4>
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Recreational boating is a known vector by which AIS
hitchhike into new waters,’ O’Neill says.</div>
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Invasive Species Coordination Unit Coordinator David J.
Adams of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, says, ‘Aquatic
invasive species are a form of non-native, invasive biological pollution that
are severely damaging New York’s natural resources. Movement of AIS between
waters harms our environment and economy. This new resource, the New York State
Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook, will encourage and support
local stewardship of the waters of the State and help mitigate the impact of
invasive species.’ <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Watercraft inspection stewards, also known as boat, lake,
and watershed stewards, play a critical role in AIS management.</div>
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The introduction of new populations of invaders is changing
the ecology of lakes across New York State. By teaching boat owners the impacts
of AIS and how to inspect their vessels, trailers and gear and to remove and
properly dispose of aquatic hitchhikers, the stewards provide one of the first
lines of defense against the damage of aquatic invasive species,’ O’Neill says. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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New York Sea Grant has been involved with waterfront steward
programs since 1985. NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist Mary E.
Penney, who has managed stewards working along Lake Ontario since 2006,
authored the New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook. </div>
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This handbook represents a cooperative effort built on the
experience and expertise of the program leaders of existing waterfront
stewardship programs in New York and others with invasive species expertise.
Each collaborator was crucial in developing content on standardized watercraft
inspection protocol, AIS identification and distribution, regulations, how to
plan a new program, steward field training, and other aspects of starting a
proper watercraft inspection program,’ Penney says. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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The New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program
Handbook Advisory Committee working with Penney included representatives of the
Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program, Catskill Region Invasive Species
Partnership, Finger Lakes Institute, Lake Champlain Basin Program, Lake
Champlain Sea Grant, Lake George Association, New York Sea Grant, New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Parks, and Paul
Smith’s College Watershed Stewardship Program.</div>
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The Clean, Drain, Dry watercraft inspection processes
detailed in the new handbook are in keeping with the national Stop Aquatic
Hitchhikers!<sup><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">TM </span></sup>campaign
led by Wildlife Forever, Brooklyn Center, MN, with support from the National
Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force and partners nationwide. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Stewards with two of the newest steward programs in NY: the
New York State Parks Boat Stewards and Conesus Lake Stewards field tested the
Watercraft Inspection Steward Training and Field Guide section of the handbook
in 2014.</div>
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Conesus Lake, due south of Rochester, is one of the smaller
Finger Lakes. Cornell Cooperative Extension/CCE of Livingston County Executive
Director Louie ‘Bo’ Freeman manages the Conesus Lake Stewards, a collaborative
program by CCE, Conesus Lake Association, Livingston County, and SUNY Geneseo. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Training this year with Mary Penney and the steward
training section of the new handbook was a tremendous asset to us. The field
guide is organized with readily accessible information that is pertinent to the
clientele on Conesus Lake, and the comprehensive data collected will be a
phenomenal resource,’ Freeman says. </div>
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New York Sea Grant and New York State Parks will hold a
day-long, spring 2015 Watercraft Inspection Steward Workshop that will use the
new handbook to help the organizers of new and young steward programs. The
workshop planning partners include <span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Buffalo
Niagara Riverkeeper®, Lake Champlain Basin Program, New York State Department
of Environmental Conservation, Paul Smith’s College, and Partnerships for
Regional Invasive Species Management in the Adirondack Park, Finger Lakes,
Catskills, St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario, and Western NY regions. </span></div>
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The New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program
Handbook is available online at <a href="http://www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515">www.nyseagrant.org/articles/r/2515</a>
and <a href="http://www.nyis.info/">www.nyis.info</a><span style="font-family: "Arial Bold";">. </span></div>
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The NYS Environmental Protection Fund through a contract
with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation supports the
New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook, Cornell
University Invasive Species Program, and NY Invasive Species Clearinghouse. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial Bold";">Additional Media
Contacts:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program: Hilary Smith,
518-576-2082</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Catskill Region: Paul Lord, SUNY Oneonta, 607-436-2818</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Conesus Lake Stewards: Louie ‘Bo’ Freeman, 585-991-5420</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finger Lakes Institute: Lisa B. Cleckner, 315-781-4381</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lake Champlain Basin Program, VT: Meg Modley, 802-372-3213
x215</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lake Champlain Sea Grant: Mark Malchoff, SUNY Plattsburgh,
518-564-3037</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lake George Association: Emily DeBolt, 518-668-3558 x301</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New York Sea Grant: Mary E. Penney, 315-312-3042</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation: David J.
Adams, 518-402-9149</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Paul Smith’s College Watershed Stewardship Program: Eric
Holmlund, 518-327-6341</div>
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<br /></div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-66815715728192713182014-11-26T10:24:00.004-05:002014-11-26T10:24:59.164-05:00Perpectives on AIS from Anglers and Lake Professionals <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Oneida Lake’s Changing Environment: </b></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Perspectives on AIS from Anglers and Lake
Professionals </b></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
by Jordan
Bodway, 2014 New York Sea Grant Launch Steward </h4>
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<br /></div>
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Now
more than ever the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) has become an
increasingly pertinent issue for everyone who enjoys Oneida Lake. Oneida Lake is an integral part of
central New York’s recreational value and economic stability. Creel surveys conducted
by Cornell University from 2002 to 2005 revealed that the lake’s fishery
annually generated between 200,000 and 300,000 angler hours during the open
water season. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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As a result of my interest in
protecting the integrity of the place I call home, I filled a position with New
York Sea Grant (NYSG) as a 2014 Launch Steward. The NYSG Launch Steward program
educates boaters at selected boat launches on how to look for, remove and
properly dispose of aquatic hitchhiking debris and organisms. I was stationed
on the north shore of Oneida Lake at Godfrey Point, a public launch owned by
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Prior
to working at Godfrey Point this summer, I was familiar with Oneida Lake’s vast
aquatic life but unaware of the condition and health of the lake as it relates
to aquatic invasive species (AIS). As a NYSG Launch Steward helping anglers
learn how to conduct watercraft inspections to reduce the spread of aquatic
invasive species, I had the opportunity to speak with many people, including
experienced anglers, some who come from long distances to utilize Oneida Lake;
charter captains; and individuals involved with fisheries management.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhvWBeq3qnw/VHNl6BeS5DI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CNG8W-o1g0s/s1600/2014-08-02%2B06.30.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhvWBeq3qnw/VHNl6BeS5DI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CNG8W-o1g0s/s1600/2014-08-02%2B06.30.42.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Mike Masucca & Adam Henderson Captain's of Little O' Charters expressing their concern </i><br />
<i>on AIS at Godfrey Point Boat Launch. Photo: by Jordan Bodway, NYSG </i><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></td></tr>
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Cornell University Fisheries Biologist Tom Brooking stationed at Cornell University’s Biological Field Station at Shackelton Point notes that AIS have become another factor to consider when conducting studies on Oneida Lake. For example, Brooking points out that increased weed growth in the lake is partially a result of the introduction of zebra mussels, an AIS.<br />
<br />
Native to the Black and Caspian seas
region of Eurasia and western Asia, these mussels were first sighted in Lake
St. Clair, between Detroit and the Canadian province of Ontario, in 1988,
believed to have been introduced into the Great Lakes by the ballast water of
oceangoing ships. They officially reached Oneida Lake in 1991 and quickly
proliferated.<br />
<br />
“When the mussels entered Oneida
Lake, the entire habitat changed. By filtering and clearing the water, the
zebra mussels have altered the natural conditions of the lake,“ says
Brooking. “Sunlight can penetrate deeper
into the water column, cultivating higher vegetation growth which helps support
vegetation oriented species like pickerel, largemouth bass, and sunfish.”<br />
<br />
Although some species are thriving
as a result of these changes, perch and walleye fry, both of whom benefitted
from the algae green water, are now much more vulnerable to predation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally, clearer waters might allow for
fish eating birds such as cormorants and terns to be more successful in their
pursuit for food.<br />
<br />
While some species use the
vegetated areas for refuge, some types of vegetation such as Eurasian milfoil
and European water chestnut form thick mats and can become depleted of
dissolved oxygen and provide poor habitat. In addition, these species reproduce
rapidly due to an absence of limiting factors and are poor sources of food for
waterfowl.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SNyb9nCKOVo/VHNnJQkBgrI/AAAAAAAAAKw/KiWVhdFPAmI/s1600/2014-08-05%2B00.52.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SNyb9nCKOVo/VHNnJQkBgrI/AAAAAAAAAKw/KiWVhdFPAmI/s1600/2014-08-05%2B00.52.12.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chris Scriba Captain of Scriba Fishing Charters &Jordan Bodway discussing the changing </i><br />
<i>ecology of Oneida Lake. Photo: by Jordan Bodway, NYSG</i></td></tr>
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Fishing charter operators I spoke with believe the increased water clarity influenced by the zebra mussels has given fish such as walleye an advantage over anglers. Walleye are known to avoid strong light, and consequently tend to avoid shallow reefs, in search of thick weed beds or deeper water where they aren’t as exposed to anglers.<br />
<br />
The Cornell Biological Field
Station found gobies this summer at low densities near Brewerton and throughout
Oneida Lake nearly as far as Lewis Point. Some anglers believe the gobies will
make fishing better in Oneida Lake by serving as a food source for creating
larger fish.<br />
<br />
Others express concern about the
potential for negative impact by the gobies and a dramatic increase in the goby
population that could result in dietary changes in fish, potentially harming
angler productivity.<br />
<br />
One angler worried that the
establishment of the round gobies in Oneida Lake could become detrimental to
bass populations advocated for banning the catch-and-release season to allow
the bass to remain on nesting beds. When bass are removed from their beds as a
result of angler activity, round gobies use the opportunity to invade their
nests and consume the bass eggs, according to Cornell University scientists,
although population-level impacts are not as clear.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Most everyone I spoke with stressed
the importance of being aware of the potentially negative effects that AIS can
have on a body of water. Oneida Lake is a dynamic body of water impacted by the
introduction of the round goby and the potential for other AIS arrivals.
Although many people are confident that Oneida Lake’s high productivity will
help buffer the potential damage caused by new invaders, the issue of AIS
should not be ignored.<br />
<br />
Boaters and anglers can be
proactive by following a simple Clean, Drain, Dry watercraft inspection
protocol when launching and retrieving motorized and non-motorized vessels.
Conducting a thorough investigation of your boat and removing and properly
disposing of aquatic debris helps prevent and slow the spread of new invasive
species into beautiful Oneida Lake.<br />
<br />
There is no single solution to the
AIS problem, but a collective effort to help stop aquatic hitchhikers will make
a significant difference in time. Learn more at <a href="http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/ais/pdfs/CCD-AquaticHitchhikers0912.pdf">www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/ais/pdfs/CCD-AquaticHitchhikers0912.pdf</a>.</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-66075994684629990882014-11-26T10:10:00.000-05:002014-11-26T10:37:39.776-05:00Where Are They Now?<h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
New York Sea Grant Stewards Find Career Success</div>
</div>
</h2>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since 1985, students working as New York Sea Grant (NYSG) stewards have helped educate local citizens and visitors about how to enjoy New York’s natural resources in an ecologically-friendly way. Since 2006, the steward program has also served as an environmental science workforce development program providing participants with valuable career development experience.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The stewards’ focus on ecologically-responsible use of the Eastern Lake Ontario Dunes and Wetlands Area and Salmon River Corridor expanded over the years to include education on preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species in 7 counties stretching from Sodus and Port Bays in Wayne County to Black Pond in Jefferson County, inland to the Redfield Reservoir in Oswego County and Sylvan Beach in Oneida County, and sites in Cayuga, Onondaga and Madison counties.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The stewards reached audiences through public outreach events, the development of publications and PowerPoint presentations, one-on-one interaction, and assisting implementation and shoreline stewardship projects. The 2014 NYSG Launch Stewards helped develop the steward training and field guide section of the New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
NYSG Provides Eco-Career Training</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In 2014, NYSG tracked the career success of former stewards to see “where they are now.” The stewards credit the program with contributing to their futures as scientific professionals, conservationists, and environmental educators.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Former stewards are currently employed with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Terrestrial Environmental Specialists, Inc., the United States Geological Survey, Washington State University Extension and The Nature Conservancy’s Growing Leaders on Behalf of the Environment internship program;</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Former stewards value their NYSG experiences:</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-DVoeHUFXQ/VHSXd8Bp6CI/AAAAAAAAALA/aRqE4veF6YI/s1600/2013LaunchStewCrewwithMPBYDaveWhite.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-DVoeHUFXQ/VHSXd8Bp6CI/AAAAAAAAALA/aRqE4veF6YI/s1600/2013LaunchStewCrewwithMPBYDaveWhite.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>2013 NYSG Launch Steward Crew<br />Top (left to right) Nick Spera, Clinton Whittaker, Ryan Thompson<br />Middle (left to right) Brittney Rogers, Mary Penney<br />Bottom (left to right) Heather Dunham, Sophia Oliveira, Megan Pristolese<br />Photo by Dave White, NYSG</i></td></tr>
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“My time as a NYSG steward prepared me to think</div>
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on my feet, be adaptive to situations, and react to</div>
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diverse stakeholders respectfully and professionally”</div>
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— Shelby Persons, Terrestrial Environmental Specalists</div>
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“Becoming a NYSG steward made me more aware of the importance of</div>
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stakeholder engagement in the conservation process”</div>
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— John Koltz, Booz Allen Hamilton</div>
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“Being a NYSG steward really opened my eyes to the</div>
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amount of debate that surrounds environmental issues and policies” </div>
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— Kyle Teufel, Baltimore Woods Nature Center</div>
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“I gained the ability to translate complicated scientific</div>
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information, making it more easily understood by the public” </div>
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— Ryan Thompson, Bristol Myers Squibb</div>
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“Being a NYSG Scholar and Launch Steward,</div>
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I developed an understanding of how to work</div>
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collaboratively with private and public interests”</div>
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— Matt Brincka, Washington State University Extension</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-2445024800938514132014-11-04T13:25:00.001-05:002014-11-04T13:25:30.316-05:00Increasing Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness<div style="text-align: justify;">
New York Sea Grant (NYSG) supports a host of important research and outreach projects on issues such as shoreline protection, fisheries, aquatic invaders, and water quality. One of these outreach projects includes the NYSG Launch Steward Program which began in 2012.<span style="text-align: justify;"> The Launch Stewards spend majority of their time at boat launches conducting watercraft inspections and educating boaters (and families) about aquatic invasive species (AIS) they might be seeing or transporting on their vessels/equipment. During the 2014 inspections, more than 88% of boaters proclaimed that the Launch Stewards increased their awareness of AIS.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">In addition to launch site education focusing on teaching boaters how to look for, remove and dispose of aquatic hitchhiking debris and organisms, an</span>other main priority<span style="text-align: justify;"> of the NYSG Launch Stewards is to attend different events to educate the general public about preventing the spread of AIS. </span>Throughout the summer of 2014, eight NYSG Launch Stewards participated in several outreach events ranging from boat shows and triathlons to statewide events including the Great New York State Fair.<br />
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<b>Save our Sodus’ Citizen Self-help Exposition</b></div>
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Launch Stewards participated in the Citizen Self-help Exposition held by Save Our Sodus in the Village of Sodus Point, NY. Stewards staffed the display and spoke with event attendees about AIS-related issues and ways they could actively help prevent the further spread of AIS. At the event, Launch Stewards set up a display booth with program-related literature, specimen preserved in resin and items to be given to those who were interested. Approximately 60 attendees browsed at the booth while more than 20 became familiar with the importance of maintaining a stable ecosystem and the importance of native and invasive species have in the Lake Ontario aquatic system.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The following events were attended by the 2014 Launch Stewards in chronological order. </span></i></div>
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<b>2nd Annual Oswego Paddle Fest</b></div>
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At the Oswego Paddle Fest, paddlers of all ages and abilities had the opportunity to paddle the locks on Oswego River from Fulton or Minetto to Oswego, depending on the desired distance each paddler wanted to go. The event encouraged a ariety of paddlers to enjoy and appreciate the unique beauty of the historic Oswego River. For those who didn't paddle, a finish line celebration was held at Lock 7, which included food, live music and many booths to check out. Launch Stewards staffed a display races finish line (at Lock 7). Launch Steward Jeremy Galvin educated the festival attendees and paddlers about AIS that are established in the Great Lakes basin and how paddlers can help prevent the spread of AIS by inspecting their paddling and other recreational gear. Any questions that were presented by attendees were answered. Informational literature and other items were also given away. Approximately 40 people spoke with the Launch Steward about the program while many others took time to look at the display and take extra information.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_D6ymQ4lMikfKaXWD6gl2fL6yfXPR3iLldpW7y4qpmZ-C9TLcWJDViWnWbpO-jOrL6FNDcj_ahOZqckbQFhTcxNOoqKgL92ai82bQkhQ2zARpsfzaeO-1aShZjY5dUIJm4uTrH0fybWs/s1600/302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_D6ymQ4lMikfKaXWD6gl2fL6yfXPR3iLldpW7y4qpmZ-C9TLcWJDViWnWbpO-jOrL6FNDcj_ahOZqckbQFhTcxNOoqKgL92ai82bQkhQ2zARpsfzaeO-1aShZjY5dUIJm4uTrH0fybWs/s1600/302.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG Launch Steward, Jeremy Galvin, awaiting paddlers at NYSG’s Launch Steward <br />Program display booth at the 2nd annual Oswego Paddle Fest. <br />Photo By: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</td></tr>
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<b>Oswego County Fair</b></div>
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NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward, David Newell attended the Oswego County Fair, in the Oswego County tourism and promotion building where they educated the public about AIS. During this event the Launch Stewards answered questions presented by the inquisitive public who were in attendance. Speaking to over 100 people throughout this five day event, the Launch Stewards were capable of increasing public awareness on the havoc AIS can have on our aquatic ecosystems.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitiIbRRMJYc_IX96i11lgGJtEtj9Rw9UWFDjKLashMUf1E98b7EgYO3CmrukTwTcWea4hWXIK3B8NCf9lE_XYVvtpwXTDYRqB-YvYq3vRc5MOQbNNA8u0bxOyx8QEQKY95eLJoxmDQvw/s1600/603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitiIbRRMJYc_IX96i11lgGJtEtj9Rw9UWFDjKLashMUf1E98b7EgYO3CmrukTwTcWea4hWXIK3B8NCf9lE_XYVvtpwXTDYRqB-YvYq3vRc5MOQbNNA8u0bxOyx8QEQKY95eLJoxmDQvw/s1600/603.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York Sea Grant’s Launch Steward Program display set up at the Oswego County <br />Fairgrounds in the Oswego County Tourism and Promotion building. <br />Photo By: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</td></tr>
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<b>Henderson Harbor Triathlon</b></div>
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NYSG Launch Steward, David Newell conducted an AIS educational program at the Henderson Harbor Boat launch for participants and spectators in attendance during the Henderson Harbor Triathlon. During this event Newell had the opportunity to speak to several large groups of attendees who took numerous educational pamphlets on AIS.</div>
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<b>Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show</b></div>
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NYSG Launch Steward, Robert Bucci operated a booth at the annual Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show. During this even Robert was able to educate a wide variety of participants about AIS. Over the course of this three day event, the Launch Steward spoke to more than 200 people, and dispersed educational materials to all who were interested in learning more about how to stop the spread of AIS. The Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show offered spectators the ability to enjoy live bands, as well as view many classic boats, including an amphibious car that looked like a 60’s Chevrolet.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgb1TMRu-nIrqsh-smV7vsYw6SzkUEum5dc7aPuwp_uzUg-9siCXujCwdbRGm-AzVNIYhoHE0NESzQqkVcEn52KZhZXAsBWJfyZxewSlmx0Wj0pcauUdlhb_JbOQ_wpb_hnLs5AJ3eaQ/s1600/20140726_145540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgb1TMRu-nIrqsh-smV7vsYw6SzkUEum5dc7aPuwp_uzUg-9siCXujCwdbRGm-AzVNIYhoHE0NESzQqkVcEn52KZhZXAsBWJfyZxewSlmx0Wj0pcauUdlhb_JbOQ_wpb_hnLs5AJ3eaQ/s1600/20140726_145540.jpg" height="302" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amphibious car on Skaneateles Lake during the annual Skaneateles Antique Boat Show. <br />Photo By: NYSG Launch Steward, Robert Bucci</td></tr>
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<b>Empire Farm Days; Seneca Falls</b></div>
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NYSG Launch Steward, Jeremy Galvin spent three days working a booth at Empire Farm Days in Seneca Falls, NY. Throughout the duration of the event more than 165 people were educated on AIS. The main attraction which drew many of the attendants at this event included AIS specimens (pickled and preserved in resin) which many were unaware plagued our water bodies. Fortunately Galvin’s extensive knowledge on the subject matter helped enlighten those interested in learning more about AIS, and how to prevent their spread by participating in Clean, Drain, Dry boating methods.</div>
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<b>USGS R/V Kaho Commissioning Celebration</b></div>
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The Great Lakes Science Center celebrated the newest addition to its large research vessels, the R/V Kaho. The new, 70-foot R/V Kaho enables the USGS Lake Ontario Biological Station scientists to enhance ongoing explorations of Lake Ontario. NYSG Launch Steward Ashleigh Grosso attended this traditional christening and commissioning ceremony held in Oswego, NY. During the event, the Launch Steward spoke with more than 50 people about AIS and the NYSG Launch Steward Program.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEO1t0H4jVAkJYiR8qulZLZc7FAZUrzVTw5IjgVyCbVg97q5RoJsmjrScEgy3HJCwTCUEE4ANUmHzQAkmOZxk0FFe6py07nq9Rgrh78u-eufu_7MHvMDhsKWa6k33XDlO59kyiLEsJGU/s1600/14894770806_73d2958ae5_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEO1t0H4jVAkJYiR8qulZLZc7FAZUrzVTw5IjgVyCbVg97q5RoJsmjrScEgy3HJCwTCUEE4ANUmHzQAkmOZxk0FFe6py07nq9Rgrh78u-eufu_7MHvMDhsKWa6k33XDlO59kyiLEsJGU/s1600/14894770806_73d2958ae5_o.jpg" height="191" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG Display at the USGS R/V Kaho event.<br />Photo by 2014 NYSG Launch Steward Ashleigh Grosso.</td></tr>
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<b>Magic in Minetto</b></div>
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NYSG Launch Steward, Ashleigh Grosso manned a booth at the annual Magic in Minetto event. A free, fun, family festival that included music, crafts, vendors, and a kayak and canoe race. Approximately 40 people gained knowledge about NYSG and AIS. Many educational resources were handed out to spectators and racers who were interested in learning more information. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeZ2BH_uZ7OXxzLnki9wdursRnjpP_J_pksTfVT-ZlZsKSNeHj-FXR25d-uiARAaVYwGc3R8aTpqlevLa1TU1aX9MPut9kcZ-R_6NcgyEZnqoXqnrwdppNetVXZrweZKIwfI9Q06MoHo/s1600/DSC05744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeZ2BH_uZ7OXxzLnki9wdursRnjpP_J_pksTfVT-ZlZsKSNeHj-FXR25d-uiARAaVYwGc3R8aTpqlevLa1TU1aX9MPut9kcZ-R_6NcgyEZnqoXqnrwdppNetVXZrweZKIwfI9Q06MoHo/s1600/DSC05744.jpg" height="255" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG Launch Steward Ashleigh Grosso at the Magic in Minetto Display.<br />Photo By: Richard Drosse</td></tr>
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<b>Great Shipwrecks of New York’s Great Lakes exhibit</b></div>
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NYSG in partnership with many other organizations held an exhibit at the New York State Fair. The exhibit which highlighted the shipwrecks of New York’s great lakes was a huge success. During this event, the NYSG Launch Steward Program was able to outreach to nearly 7,200 patrons in attendance at the NYS Fair. During the 10 day event, all eight Launch Stewards were scheduled to attend and educate the public who came in to visit the exhibit. Those who visited the display were able to observe preserved AIS specimens, large AIS/Stop Aquatic Hitchhiker panels and view/collect educational fact sheets. The Launch Stewards helped to increase attendant’s knowledge on which species are present in the Great Lakes, as well as the adverse effects AIS can have on aquatic ecosystems. In addition to this the Launch Stewards were able to hand out educational pamphlets and brochures educating boaters on proper clean drain dry boating methods. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04VhILDs2QLgD-0cebWOHRfKiz4N5GJRTZh0R_8dhkS-g6WhxF4UBQiDRnaaJusdg20G_NcJYFv17cyVNFHCLhybAtpHG2u7SYQlkdPQx40kqWRCp6qOiyuAoys88Bhyphenhyphen4NCwgVt9A3mc/s1600/148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04VhILDs2QLgD-0cebWOHRfKiz4N5GJRTZh0R_8dhkS-g6WhxF4UBQiDRnaaJusdg20G_NcJYFv17cyVNFHCLhybAtpHG2u7SYQlkdPQx40kqWRCp6qOiyuAoys88Bhyphenhyphen4NCwgVt9A3mc/s1600/148.JPG" height="320" width="258" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG's Coastal Education Specialist, Helen Domske educating fair goers about <br />AIS at the Launch Steward's display booth.<br />Photo By: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers </td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The 7,200 patrons that were educated on AIS does not include the total number </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">of visitors to the Great Shipwrecks of New York's Great Lakes display.</span></i></div>
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<b>Oswego County Conservation Field Day</b></div>
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NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward, Robert Bucci attended the 6th annual Oswego County Conservation Field Day hosted by Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District. During this day long event many classes from the area bring students to rotate through 6 or more stations where they learn about various environmental/conservation topics. The Launch Stewards educated 145 fifth graders, chaperones and teachers on the Lake Ontario aquatic food web and impacts AIS have on food webs. The interactive Lake Ontario aquatic food web activity is a hands on approach to further educate students about food webs and AIS influences on the aquatic ecosystems. Students, chaperones and educators from many different surrounding schools (i.e., Oswego and Pulaski) attended the event.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWka1K7xaQJugWKnw7tqmZjMsO_XMsQERWdn6IUsaTii-m4GXCDPa_PZuRbjAY5tcuufomDlpR_LdjnQ6zMAzyx2LkQpPNwJVhXSzQkWK61sgceX4wNxS08-_s4CQWza6CMbBfBA3W0HY/s1600/269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWka1K7xaQJugWKnw7tqmZjMsO_XMsQERWdn6IUsaTii-m4GXCDPa_PZuRbjAY5tcuufomDlpR_LdjnQ6zMAzyx2LkQpPNwJVhXSzQkWK61sgceX4wNxS08-_s4CQWza6CMbBfBA3W0HY/s1600/269.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the preserved specimen used during NYSG events to give patrons a better look at different species found in Lake Ontario. Photo By: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers </td></tr>
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<b>Jefferson County Environmental Awareness Days</b></div>
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NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward, Robert Bucci attended the Jefferson County Environmental Awareness Days held at Fort Drum Natural Resource Management Area. The Launch Stewards educated 330 sixth graders, chaperones and teachers on the Lake Ontario aquatic food web and impacts AIS have on food webs. Students, chaperones and educators from many different surrounding schools (i.e., General Brown, Indian River) attended the event.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5rbizMMjw1J4G7HPCaNZlvqr56zNgU581YqetH4TRyOPUpsrQQAZeExuCSsTAgXbu4FqfAtBWsOttuLCzxhpL4akfJ7EmeXYSKrWbFE4PlN3EO6lOdpNS2SkW3pLpoUPlbnfse1tCp4/s1600/268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5rbizMMjw1J4G7HPCaNZlvqr56zNgU581YqetH4TRyOPUpsrQQAZeExuCSsTAgXbu4FqfAtBWsOttuLCzxhpL4akfJ7EmeXYSKrWbFE4PlN3EO6lOdpNS2SkW3pLpoUPlbnfse1tCp4/s1600/268.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG Chief Launch Steward Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward Robert Bucci eagerly waiting for the next round of students to learn about Lake Ontario's aquatic food web by participating in the interactive activity. Photo By: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese<br /></td></tr>
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<b>Salmon River Fish Hatchery </b><b>Open House</b></div>
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<b>(National Hunting and Fishing Day)</b></div>
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The Salmon River Fish Hatchery (SRFH) held a one day open house on National Hunting and Fishing Day. NYSG Chief Launch Steward Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward Robert Bucci manned a large display to talk with visitors about AIS and their impacts on the environment. The Launch Stewards handed out fact sheets, brochures, published articles, watch cards and other information about AIS. The booth also contained the laminated, pickled and resin species. The visitors to the booth had a variety of knowledge about AIS, some presented questions they had, and many others learned new information. Many of the visitors had previous experiences with Launch Stewards while boating and fishing in the area. The launch stewards reached more than 275 people during the daylong event.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cKckaYN5ea7ua2nV-06Fsdku_PQZeNIcCysrxyCWpQt27DGNtvH2RUTlxilf0HxoLve62CMaXgehH6fO4uQfAWav92TZtJOBnnExCdjlRsK7zblgzuULATqK_R2xXjAbAUCSdjwYzHw/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cKckaYN5ea7ua2nV-06Fsdku_PQZeNIcCysrxyCWpQt27DGNtvH2RUTlxilf0HxoLve62CMaXgehH6fO4uQfAWav92TZtJOBnnExCdjlRsK7zblgzuULATqK_R2xXjAbAUCSdjwYzHw/s1600/image.jpeg" height="320" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYSG Launch Stewards showing some of the SRFH visitors the Sea lamprey and other preserved specimen while educating them about AIS. Photo By: SLELO field crew member, Sabrina Dreythaler</td></tr>
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<b>Guided Tours at the Salmon River Fish Hatchery</b></div>
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NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers and Launch Steward, Robert Bucci provided educational information to visitors over the course of the salmon run throughout the month of October at the SRFH. NYSG Launch Stewards assisted New York State Department of Environmental Conservation River Stewards with tours of the SRFH for multiple different groups including college classes/clubs, high schools, middle schools and many more. The Launch Stewards taught the field trip goers about AIS and how they can have a detrimental effect on fishing, the salmon and other species of the river and the Great Lakes. Visitors to the SRFH learned about AIS pathways, and prevention techniques, as well as the history of the SRFH, and the salmon and trout natural history.</div>
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<b>NYSG Launch Steward Outreach and Education</b></div>
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The NYSG Launch Stewards attended 13 different events to teach others about AIS. More than 10,200 people were reached by the Launch Steward efforts during these events. The goal of the public education programs and watercraft inspections/launch site education offered throughout the boating season by the NYSG Launch Stewards is to empower boaters and the general public to prevent the spread of AIS. The NYSG Launch Steward Program is the product of valuable partnerships, these partnerships make outreach activities possible.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-56794221176741553412014-10-31T10:25:00.001-04:002014-10-31T10:25:59.790-04:00Watercraft Inspections: Clean, Drain, Dry<br />
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Over this past summer, you may have met a New York Sea Grant Launch Steward at your local boat launch. Who are these people in the red shirts, and why are they asking questions?</div>
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Launch Stewards in the eastern Lake Ontario region are typically college and/or graduate students hired and trained by New York Sea Grant (NYSG), a statewide network of integrated research, education, and extension services promoting coastal economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and citizen awareness and understanding about the State’s marine and Great Lakes resources.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A boater inspection his trailer for any unwanted aquatic hitchhikers that may have become attached during launch/retrieval of his watercraft. Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</i></td></tr>
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The goal of the NYSG Launch Stewards is to increase public awareness about identifying aquatic invasive species (AIS) and helping to control the spread of AIS to different bodies of water.</div>
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Aquatic invasive species are non-native plants and animals that threaten native plants, wildlife, and their habitat. AIS degrade boating and fishing areas, and can reduce lake shore property values and tourism. Once AIS are established, containment is difficult. By voluntarily participating in watercraft inspections, you too can help slow the spread of AIS. Inspecting your boat before entering and after leaving a body of water and removing any type of debris (plant and/or animal matter) from your watercraft, properly disposing of that debris, and drying your vessel will slow the spread of AIS.</div>
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During the 2014 NYSG Launch Steward Program, NYSG Launch Stewards were able to educate more than 10,600 people at various boat launches to help stop the spread of AIS in the eastern Lake Ontario/Oneida Lake regions. Over the course of the summer, the Launch Stewards inspected various watercrafts identifying AIS as well as other aquatic hitchhikers that can hitchhike on various points on the boat and trailer.</div>
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On average, 8% of the boats inspected by NYSG Launch Stewards had one, if not more, aquatic hitchhikers present. The three most abundant AIS found this past summer in chronological order include; Eurasian watermilfoil at 68%, Zebra mussels at 15% and Curly-leaf pondweed at 15%. Many of these aquatic plants are able to propagate from small leaflets of the mother plant. This adaptation allows many of the AIS to spread easily and is why it is so important for boaters to follow inspection protocol. The Launch Stewards were well receptive with boaters; and due to their efforts, helped to increase public awareness on AIS to those who previously were unaware of the harmful affects they had on the lake ecology.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boater drying his boat, helping to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. <br />
Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</td></tr>
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<b>Three important steps of <i>Clean, Drain, Dry</i> are:</b></div>
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<b>Inspect & Clean:</b> Remove all visible plants, animals, fish, and mud from your boat, trailer, or other equipment and dispose of these debris in a suitable trash container or on dry land away from vehicle traffic and water. It is also important to check any other type of equipment that comes into contact with the water such as tubes, fishing, gear, and even scuba gear.</div>
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<b>Drain: </b>Drain water from bilge, live wells, ballast tanks, boat bodies, and any place capable of holding water, before leaving the boat launch.</div>
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<b>Dry: </b>Dry your boat, trailer, and all equipment completely. Drying times vary depending on the weather and type of material. Dry by hand, or let vessel sit to dry for at least five days, which is enough to kill most aquatic organisms that may be left on the boat during the summer months.</div>
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Practicing watercraft inspections protects our local waterways and habitats and keeps them a valuable resource for use now and for future generations.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patron inspecting scuba diving gear for any aquatic invasive species;<br />
Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers </td></tr>
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<b>Anglers: Proper Disposal of Bait Helps Slow Spread of AIS</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">The NYSG Launch Steward Program shares the following tips to empower anglers in the battle to slow and stop the spread of aquatic invasive species that can damage your favorite fishing areas.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">If you are an avid fisherman in New York State, please follow New York State bait laws.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">It is best to purchase live bait from a licensed dealer in the region which you plan to use it.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Learn to recognize juvenile Asian carp (a disastrous AIS in the Midwest). The juveniles look similar to some common bait minnow species.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Never dump bait directly into a body of water. Many invasive species are spread when people inadvertently dump live bait such as non-native minnows, worms or frogs in or near the water.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"> Unwanted bait should always be disposed of in the trash or at a waste disposal station which many boat launches have. </li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zdc8iF6VLZ4/VBxX-hTGieI/AAAAAAAAAII/lH2TaCe3IIo/s1600/9119031460_f0e906429b_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zdc8iF6VLZ4/VBxX-hTGieI/AAAAAAAAAII/lH2TaCe3IIo/s1600/9119031460_f0e906429b_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Boater disposing aquatic plant material into a waste disposal station; <br />Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Ryan Thompson </i></td></tr>
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<b>Aquatic Pet/Plant Owners: Proper Disposal of Unwanted Pets/Plants</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Another condition in which invasive species are spread is from the release of unwanted exotic aquatic plants or pets from their aquariums. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Unwanted pets or plants can usually be returned to an aquarium supplier.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Importantly, aquarium owners or gardeners should consult their state and federal lists of prohibited invasive species before purchasing a new plant or animal.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Using native flora in ponds and aquariums is a simple way to avoid the spread of AIS.</li>
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<b>Tips for Fishing at the Salmon River</b></div>
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As the leaves start to change and we prepare ourselves for a long Central New York winter, new outdoor activities start to take place. One such popular activity among outdoorsman includes fishing for Pacific Salmon on the Salmon River. As anglers get out their waders from basement storage, and prepare themselves to hook up with a monster Chinook Salmon, it is important to note that AIS can still be spread.</div>
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One such hitchhiker which can attach to felt waders includes Didymo or rock snot. This nuisance algae prefers freshwater rivers, and streams with cold water temperatures. Didymo can negatively affect stream habitats and sources of food for fish. To help stop the spread of AIS please reference the picture below which depicts the proper protocol and gear to inspect before and after visiting the Salmon River or other Great Lakes tributaries.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoZfpJiKDzqEG1tysDyy0n1It59y0B3syxjZpTSRwbWppUiZBa7Yo9tFXXMVJ137PuqlB5zwxDAIgvhvk4oEM7IY2JE-lGE1kkFh3y6QXLkcOsh67Mkxbexj25vLxN1VMR1v_b6FJ4kU/s1600/NewellSlide1727.5+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoZfpJiKDzqEG1tysDyy0n1It59y0B3syxjZpTSRwbWppUiZBa7Yo9tFXXMVJ137PuqlB5zwxDAIgvhvk4oEM7IY2JE-lGE1kkFh3y6QXLkcOsh67Mkxbexj25vLxN1VMR1v_b6FJ4kU/s1600/NewellSlide1727.5+(2).jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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The overall goal of the New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Program was to increase public awareness on identifying aquatic invasive species (AIS) and how the public can help control the spread of AIS to different bodies of water.</div>
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So, what are invasive species?</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Invasive species are non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem and their introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Aquatic invasive species can outcompete the native species that occupy the same niche. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Some of the AIS that are common in New York bodies of water include the zebra mussel, Eurasian watermilfoil, Hydrilla and the European water chestnut. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Zebra mussels have been linked to food web disruptions, causing a bottom-up trophic cascade which adversely affects the lake ecosystem population dynamics. </li>
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Eurasian watermilfoil, Hydrilla, and European water chestnuts form thick mats of vegetation at the water’s surface, blocking sunlight for native plants and decreases in dissolved oxygen levels, leading to fish kills.</div>
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<b>Early detection</b> is crucial to controlling AIS as smaller populations are easier to eliminate or manage, than larger ones. Individually removing plants by hand with small infestations rather than large established areas may help to reduce overall management costs.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Volunteers and Launch Stewards at a European water chestnut hand-pull on the Oswego River near Battle Island, Fulton, NY. During this event, the group removed 1,250lbs. of water chestnut; <br />Photo by: Richard Drosse</i></td></tr>
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<b>AIS Hand-Pulls </b></div>
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Hand-pulls involve the public/volunteers in physically removing unwanted species from a body of water. On July 14, 2014, in partnership with the Oswego County Soil & Water Conservation District (OCSWCD), St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM), and the Oswego County Guides’ Association, the NYSG Launch Stewards assisted in educating participants about AIS prevention and to help stop the spread of the European water chestnut in a hand pull event on the Salmon River. Approximately 30 participants (including many local volunteers) removed more than 300 pounds of European water chestnut from the river.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>European water chestnuts collected from the Salmon River, Launch Stewards Ashleigh Grosso (Left) and Rob Tornatore (Right); Photo By: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</i></td></tr>
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To learn more about organizing a local AIS hand-pull event, please reference the "Steps and Procedures to Help Organize an Invasive Plant Removal and Disposal" online at http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/ais/pdfs/CCD-StewSperaWaterChestnutFactSheet1012.pdf.</div>
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<b>Mechanical and Herbicide Control of AIS</b></div>
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Large populations of AIS may require the use of mechanical harvesters or pesticides.</div>
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Mechanical harvesting machines cut and collect the aquatic plants, removing them from the water by a conveyor belt system. The plant matter is stored in the harvester until the collection can be removed and disposed of away from the water body. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Mechanical weed harvester removing aquatic plants on Sodus Bay, 2013. <br />Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</i></td></tr>
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The application of herbicides is also used to achieve control of AIS. Highly infested areas often must be treated for multiple years to eliminate the invading population. Aquatic herbicides are chemicals specifically formulated for use in water to kill or control aquatic plants.</div>
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Aquatic herbicides are sprayed directly onto floating or emergent aquatic plants or are applied to the water in liquid or pellet form. Most herbicides have restrictions on the use of the water body immediately after treatment, lasting up to 30 days, depending on the dose rate or use of the area. Follow-up monitoring should track the applied chemical and changes in the plant communities, water quality conditions, and impaired uses.</div>
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The effectiveness for any given herbicide treatment varies with the treatment design, and the conditions of the water body and treatment site listed. In general, the effectiveness of an herbicide treatment will last anywhere from several weeks to several months, usually corresponding to a single growing season. </div>
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Since seeds and roots frequently are not affected by treatment, once the chemicals have degraded or washed out of the system, plant growth will resume, and reapplication may be necessary. Effectiveness rarely carries over to the next growing season. </div>
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Please note: only licensed applicators should handle herbicides</div>
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<b>Public Education About AIS</b></div>
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Another means of controlling AIS is through public education. The NYSG Launch Stewards have educated boaters and members of the non-boating public about such programs as <i>Clean, Drain, Dry</i> watercraft inspection. These programs have led to increased public awareness on the various AIS that plague our lake ecosystems; as well as the vectors in which they can spread. With the Launch Stewards helping patrons visiting the boat launches identify AIS, the Launch Stewards were able to inform the public how they could become stewards themselves, by reporting sightings of suspected invasive species to iMapInvasives.org. Follow the previous link to learn more about these efforts. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEI-uEQP3MjZKT3hfY_RXpCOic8nzF4BBsBW1GL19ER5-ZoujTm9TwgGOrLEMuSMxmSCZq2-5G7PB5EPZ0KF52kkeSmfmlUL_qPgAt4-JPF8YmbsR_O1mPKg73jPZj2s1rcNBsARzNwaM/s1600/194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEI-uEQP3MjZKT3hfY_RXpCOic8nzF4BBsBW1GL19ER5-ZoujTm9TwgGOrLEMuSMxmSCZq2-5G7PB5EPZ0KF52kkeSmfmlUL_qPgAt4-JPF8YmbsR_O1mPKg73jPZj2s1rcNBsARzNwaM/s1600/194.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>2013 NYSG Launch Steward Megan Pistolese conducting a voluntary watercraft inspection with a local boater at Henderson Harbor Boat Launch. Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</i></td></tr>
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Various organizations such as OCSWCD, SLELO PRISM, and Save Our Sodus were able to locate several priority sites with European water chestnuts. Once located, these organizations, the Launch Stewards and many concerned patrons helped target and remove these infestations from several bodies of water. Throughout 2014 Launch Steward Program, the Launch stewards were able to remove a total of 2,050 pounds of European water chestnuts in three separate locations, which helped restore large portions of New York’s aquatic ecosystem.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-42078725248439009802014-10-29T09:59:00.000-04:002014-10-31T10:30:41.803-04:00NYSG Launch Stewards: Getting Familiar with The Issues<div style="text-align: justify;">
The college students hired by New York Sea Grant (NYSG) to work as Launch Stewards come from different educational institutions and have different knowledge bases and work experiences. NYSG has developed an in-depth training program to get the stewards up to speed on the current aquatic invasive species (AIS)/AIS-related issues in the region.</div>
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The NYSG Launch Steward training prepares the students to perform to the standard consistent with NYSG outreach and provides them with the information and resources needed to respond to boaters' questions. Travel to the various launch sites enabled the stewards to identify variances in aquatic plant and animal species at the sites across seven counties. NYSG provided additional training throughout the boating season. </div>
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In 2014, the Launch Stewards attended weekly team meetings to discuss experiences at their designated launch sites and share different perspectives on how to help educate the public about stopping the spread of AIS. The stewards also discussed projects they were developing to help further increase public awareness on AIS.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjls9bS0fZ-iSnUClky4yShKNheoMVdjBcwyudQFd2dud1l3MTueHLi70Ie6-65tj4iw7G5WO-Eu4xLOxPmV_qu8O9MfRYX9NoZcnBPCrCYQ95W-ZVnKzB12aRjfx8zdg3Rk5f4d0CFlVA/s1600/438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjls9bS0fZ-iSnUClky4yShKNheoMVdjBcwyudQFd2dud1l3MTueHLi70Ie6-65tj4iw7G5WO-Eu4xLOxPmV_qu8O9MfRYX9NoZcnBPCrCYQ95W-ZVnKzB12aRjfx8zdg3Rk5f4d0CFlVA/s1600/438.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above: NYSG Launch Stewards going over materials during a weekly team meeting. From Left to Right; Jeremy Galvin, Maggie Markham, Jake Barnes, Rob Tornatore, Rob Bucci, Ashleigh Grosso, Jordan Bodway.<br />
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Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</td></tr>
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The Launch Stewards updated and created educational displays, PowerPoint presentations and posters for use at local fairs/events and at launch sites. The Launch Stewards extended outreach in cooperation with a variety of public and private environmental organizations by attending events such as European water chestnut hand-pulls, the Skaneateles Antique Boat Show, Magic in Minetto, Empire Farm Days and the New York State Fair.</div>
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<b>NYSG Launch Stewards: Aquatic Plant Identification Training</b></div>
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Part of the annual training of the NYSG Launch Stewards focuses on aquatic plant identification. In 2014, staff at Cornell University’s Biological Field Station at Shackelton Point provided native and invasive aquatic plant identification training. This training highlighted plant species commonly found at the launch sites within the NYSG Launch Stewards' coverage area.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7z7yBD03994ulqniN1st7C3XEhfP-JXMJI_R-Xmkz0PDNmofLqQraaczbbw0npJeSdxjENuMXX29Gu1i-Hp8GX-BdMAbQRUKi4RBqSuMZmsp8x8uwDKsPz-rf6VdsrCzZCBOfALiO0U/s1600/395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7z7yBD03994ulqniN1st7C3XEhfP-JXMJI_R-Xmkz0PDNmofLqQraaczbbw0npJeSdxjENuMXX29Gu1i-Hp8GX-BdMAbQRUKi4RBqSuMZmsp8x8uwDKsPz-rf6VdsrCzZCBOfALiO0U/s1600/395.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above: NYSG Launch Stewards holding different aquatic plant species during the aquatic plant identification plant training at Shackelton Point with Limnology Research Support Specialist Kristen Holeck. From Left to Right, Ashleigh Grosso, David Newell, Maggie Markham, Jeremy Galvin, Jordan Bodway, Rob Tornatorre, Rob Bucci, Jake Barnes<br />
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Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</td></tr>
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The plant identification training was instrumental in helping the Launch Stewards prepare to educate the public, reinforcing how quickly AIS can spread and the many negative impacts AIS can have on our environment:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Unchecked or not properly managed AIS can quickly impair recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">AIS are particularly detrimental to our fisheries as an overabundance of plant growth can reduce oxygen levels in the water which contribute to fish kills.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">AIS can also destroy stands of native vegetation, adversely affecting the animals that depend on the native vegetation for food and habitat.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Excessive plant growth can also lessen aesthetic appeal, potentially causing lower property values.</li>
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With this invaluable information, the 2014 NYSG Launch Stewards were able to effectively communicate and stress the importance of stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species to the public.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9vjd61zRLKvj2F2_-521WgegbECfkWcCWPw6VeykAjCrNnYXEnecw-vS4wG21g_S7Q7-gIOvVQn3-TSjWWobbjBhGVgraIj6BcxCJJ43qJVnUMeoPDf-N8dJZnawxfJg2_KGI2x_BQs/s1600/375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9vjd61zRLKvj2F2_-521WgegbECfkWcCWPw6VeykAjCrNnYXEnecw-vS4wG21g_S7Q7-gIOvVQn3-TSjWWobbjBhGVgraIj6BcxCJJ43qJVnUMeoPDf-N8dJZnawxfJg2_KGI2x_BQs/s1600/375.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above: Shackelton Point's Limnology Research Support Specialist Kristen Holeck helping to educate two of the 2014 NYSG Launch Stewards on identifying and differentiating between many of the native and nonnative species they were most likely to encounter working throughout the summer. Left to right: Rob Tornatore, Jordan Bodway, Kristen Holeck<br />
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Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</td></tr>
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<b>NYSG Launch Stewards: iMapInvasives, You can Too!</b></div>
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Trained to identify and locate AIS, the 2014 NYSG Launch Stewards also learned how to utilize iMapInvasives (<a href="http://www.imapinvasives.org/">www.imapinvasives.org</a>), an online, GIS-based data management system that assists citizen scientists and natural resource managers working to protect natural resources from the threat of invasive species.</div>
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The iMapInvasives website aggregates, organizes and provides information on the extent of AIS and terrestrial invasive species infestations from a wide variety of sources, supporting early detection of new populations of invasive species that may require rapid response and analysis of management strategies at scales relevant to diverse user needs.</div>
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The iMapInvasives partnership seeks to support all those working to safeguard environmental resources from the effects of invasive species, including citizens, volunteers, natural and agricultural resource managers as well as scientists, program administrators, and policy makers.</div>
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The general public can learn more on the iMapInvasives website.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-41132970361179383882014-09-11T15:31:00.000-04:002014-10-31T10:30:50.028-04:002014 NYSG Waterfront Launch Stewards Educating Boaters on Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention (By Kara Lynn Dunn)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Eight New York
college students interested in environmental science careers have finished working
with the New York Sea Grant (NYSG) Launch Steward program. This past summer the
launch stewards educated boaters about preventing the spread of aquatic
invasive species (AIS). The stewards have demonstrated watercraft inspection at
sites along the Lake Ontario shoreline from Sodus Bay to Henderson, the Oswego
River, Little Salmon River, Salmon River, Sandy Creek, Stony Creek, and Oneida
Lake from Bridgeport to Brewerton.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 2014 New York Sea Grant Launch Stewards are, front row from left, Rob Bucci, <br />
Brittney Rogers, Ashleigh Grosso, and Jordan Bodway, and, back row from left, <br />
David Newell, Rob Tornatore, Jake Barnes, and Jeremy Galvin. Photo by: NYSG</td></tr>
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<strong>Brittney Rogers </strong>of Mexico is serving as
Chief Steward with responsibilities for coordinating scheduling and overseeing
steward activities, which include collecting data on how often boaters are
practicing aquatic invasive prevention practices on their own. She is a 2013
SUNY Oswego zoology graduate who worked with the New York Sea Grant Launch
Steward Program in 2013, completed an externship with the Wildlife Center of
Virginia earlier this year, and is a Kindred Kingdom Wildlife Rehabilitation,
Inc. volunteer.</div>
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<strong>Jake Barnes</strong>, a junior at Cazenovia College, is studying
environmental biology. :As an angler, I have grown to care about the aquatic
ecosystem. Working with the New York Sea Grant Launch Steward program offers
the opportunity to provide anglers and boaters with information about how they
can help protect our water resources," says Barnes.</div>
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<strong>Jordan Bodway</strong>, a junior at the State of New York College of
Environmental Science and Forestry, is studying environmental science. “I am
interested in protecting the integrity of our water resources. Working as a New
York Sea Grant Launch Steward has provided me with valuable experience in
public outreach through interacting with boaters and visitors to the launch
areas about how they can help slow the spread of aquatic invasive species,”
says Bodway.</div>
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<strong>Robert Bucci</strong> of Pennellville is a SUNY Plattsburgh graduate
with a degree in Environmental Science/Ecology. He brings experience as a
Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve naturalist and an environmental educator at the
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Ecology Camp to
his role as a Launch Steward. "I am interested in building my aquatic
species knowledge as a Launch Steward and helping to ensure healthy ecosystems
for future generations by interacting with boaters with a goal of becoming an
Environmental Conservation Officer," says Bucci. </div>
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<strong>Jeremy Galvin</strong> of Oswego is a sophomore studying Environmental
Science Systems at Le Moyne College. "My interest is in environmental
engineering. Working with the New York Sea Grant Launch Stewards was a great
opportunity to interact with the community and encourage a positive attitude
toward conservation," says Galvin.</div>
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<strong>Ashleigh Grosso</strong> of West Monroe is a Cayuga Community College
freshman studying Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Science. GIS use
photographs and images from satellites, GPS waypoints and other data sources to
create interactive maps for decision makers in environmental, government, law
enforcement and other fields. "I have begun to explore career options
related to the environment, environmental education and technology. I enjoyed
working as a Launch Steward to help educate boaters about aquatic invasive
species and how to slow their spread," says Grosso.</div>
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<strong>David Newell</strong>, a junior at the State University of New York
College of Environmental Science and Forestry, is studying Natural Resources Management.
"I am interested in working as an Environmental Conservation Officer and
the New York Sea Grant Launch Steward program has given me the opportunity to
network with environmental professionals and interact with the public about
aquatic invasive species," says Newell.</div>
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<strong>Rob Tornatore</strong>, a senior at the College at Brockport, is studying
Environmental Science with a career goal of becoming an Environmental
Conservation Officer. “I have enjoyed working as a New York Sea Grant Launch
Steward and helping to keep our lakes healthy for future generations. The
Steward program allowed me various learning experiences for both the stewards
and the boaters who participate in the watercraft inspection demonstrations,”
says Tornatore.<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria;"></span></div>
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The stewards provided a voluntary service for operators of motorized and non-motorized boats, and shared information on the easy-to-implement Clean, Drain, Dry method that boaters can use to help slow the spread of aquatic invasive species such as European water chestnut, Hydrilla, Waterfleas, European frog-bit, Asian clam, and Rusty crayfish.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Launch Stewards are seen overlooking the lake at Beaver Lake Nature Center located in <br />
Baldwinsville, New York. The time spent at Beaver Lake Nature Center was spent learning more <br />
about the native flora and fauna species, along with the many unique adaptations these species<br />
have. The Launch Stewards pictured from left to right are Anthony Tornatore, Canastota; Robert Bucci, Pennellville; Jordan Bodway, Sylvan Beach; Chief Steward, Brittney Rogers, Mexico;<br />
Jeremy Galvin, Oswego; Ashleigh Grosso, West Monroe; David Newell, Henderson; <br />
Jake Barnes, Wolcott. Photo by: NYSG</td></tr>
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The students hired as the 2014 New York Sea Grant Launch Stewards have been trained by New York Sea Grant, which has developed the New York State Watercraft Inspection Steward Program Handbook for the Cornell University Statewide Invasive Species Outreach Program. The handbook is funded in part by the New York State Environmental Protection Fund administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.</div>
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New York Sea Grant Coastal Community Development Specialist Mary Penney serves as the Launch Steward Program Coordinator. New York Sea Grant coordinates the Steward Program in cooperation with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; New York State Parks; the Towns of Henderson, Scriba, and Sodus; the City of Oswego; and Onondaga County Parks. Funding is through U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and Finger Lakes-Lake Ontario Watershed Protection Alliance.</div>
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For more information, contact Mary Penney at 315-312-3042. New York Sea Grant offers an RSS news feed, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube links online at <a href="http://www.nyseagrant.org/">www.nyseagrant.org</a>.</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-4411230070313247772014-09-08T21:14:00.000-04:002014-10-31T10:35:02.558-04:00Water Chestnut Control: Start Early and Continue; Pull performed July 13, 2013 (By New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Nick Spera)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Plants are good for the environment, right? Not always.</div>
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Aquatic invasive species (AIS) in local watersheds and ecosystems are negatively impacting native plants, animals and habitat. An invasive species is defined by the federal Executive Order 13112 that establishes a National Invasive Species Council as a species that is non-native to the ecosystem of interest and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.</div>
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Locally, European water chestnut (WC), scientifically known as <i>Trapa natans</i>, is an AIS causing problems in Oneida Lake, the Salmon and Oswego Rivers, and some embayments of Lake Ontario.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImPOivzmY9IBnO2EmPNR8M1Cm4cpuylaP2FM8Z-HKC4BJ9wVMepHJ2YWQUWskZjQM73jNJqihBeyTrDgLgoqIbWAvgmwYfppTPCBmX4yS4lQGPLapEPT3Vw565bc_i4S-FPDOz5uLo84/s1600/496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImPOivzmY9IBnO2EmPNR8M1Cm4cpuylaP2FM8Z-HKC4BJ9wVMepHJ2YWQUWskZjQM73jNJqihBeyTrDgLgoqIbWAvgmwYfppTPCBmX4yS4lQGPLapEPT3Vw565bc_i4S-FPDOz5uLo84/s1600/496.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Closeup of water chestnut rosettes during a WC pull in Sodus Bay.<br /> Photo by: NYSG Chief Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers</i></td></tr>
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Originating from Europe, Asia and Africa, WC has made its way to North America over the years and now grows, and, often thrives, in freshwater habitats such as nutrient-rich lakes and slow moving or stagnant rivers.</div>
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Without control efforts, WC plants form dense floating mats that severely limit light and oxygen availability for native species. Water chestnuts easily outcompete native species by overcrowding to dominate waterways and increase the potential for fish die-off. Large colonies of WC also negatively affect boating, fishing, swimming and other aquatic recreation.</div>
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With such a quickly-reproducing species, control methods can be quite difficult. If not kept in check, WC will flourish and thrive until it clogs one area and begins to spread to surrounding waterways.</div>
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How do we manage something that has the ability to spread so rapidly?</div>
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The answer is through concern, persistence, and dedication. We're able to manage this with the help of environmental professionals, communities and volunteers who come together to raise public awareness of AIS and take on the challenge of AIS management.</div>
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Management and control methods vary depending on the location, level of invasiveness, AIS population size, and local conditions, such as the size of the water body and surrounding ecosystem.</div>
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Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District Manager John DeHollander says the goal of treatment depends on the site characteristics and density of the WC population.</div>
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Hand pulls are done with groups of volunteers, with the goal of removing as much of the WC as possible. Still, some plants can be left behind. Therefore, it is more reasonable to maintain control over a smaller infested area to prevent the WC from spreading further.</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVb7m8dX2TkcTRN_YNuETfoD1WXnzggWhLaR0QOY0p68rOSTzHh7_JBGZskA7uqyetKzBV_iEu6IBT3ZlfEP7w3R8aZFVgHb8CGs9zSWBKA5jREC1cnCgqWq3UiF-zXtiTHn_UEcWNKskj/s1600/StewSperaPullEquip724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVb7m8dX2TkcTRN_YNuETfoD1WXnzggWhLaR0QOY0p68rOSTzHh7_JBGZskA7uqyetKzBV_iEu6IBT3ZlfEP7w3R8aZFVgHb8CGs9zSWBKA5jREC1cnCgqWq3UiF-zXtiTHn_UEcWNKskj/s1600/StewSperaPullEquip724.jpg" height="260" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This volunteer is seen with baskets full of water chestnuts collected </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">during a handpull event in 2012. Photo by: 2012 NYSG Launch Steward, Nick Spera</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-a6pc5jllGjkBw8N6qkC5EQVWo_qrr6avOQn54tyWMv6rxBXv1bfN6jXGCfy9q0OUMCieLk742dTqHSQNedVM5YpvsBPAjzFMgHXnDbIJZtWizjkn0gXC93HLy4dC2W1NVZoRkURvOKBx/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-a6pc5jllGjkBw8N6qkC5EQVWo_qrr6avOQn54tyWMv6rxBXv1bfN6jXGCfy9q0OUMCieLk742dTqHSQNedVM5YpvsBPAjzFMgHXnDbIJZtWizjkn0gXC93HLy4dC2W1NVZoRkURvOKBx/s320/IMG_2114.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">NYSG Launch Steward Brittney Rogers collects water chestnuts at a local handpull</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</span></i></td></tr>
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When conditions of a WC infestation are not conducive for a hand pull, other alternatives such as mechanical and/or chemical treatment may be considered.</div>
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Mechanical harvesting machines cut and collect the aquatic plants, removing them from the water by a conveyor belt system. The plant matter is then stored in the harvester until the AIS can be removed and disposed away from water. This method works well on large communities of WC that have spread beyond control for mechanical harvesting.</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6r6LWgIvYZ7e0BADNhaX01PrrFVR9M3aUEiSujytml0IHYQwOizb0z6OEtIW0Ce0tOcMjpr7sHeQtU5tRuF9rLh_13RNyaorgrlkzXWjxS8MOr34flkrLfsD0eLmknIMU9156trG2MM1/s1600/weed+harvestor+revised.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6r6LWgIvYZ7e0BADNhaX01PrrFVR9M3aUEiSujytml0IHYQwOizb0z6OEtIW0Ce0tOcMjpr7sHeQtU5tRuF9rLh_13RNyaorgrlkzXWjxS8MOr34flkrLfsD0eLmknIMU9156trG2MM1/s320/weed+harvestor+revised.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Weeds harvested mechanically in Sodus Bay.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</span></i></td></tr>
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"Speaking from years of experience with mechanical harvesting at the same site (Ox Creek) annually for four years, then skipping the fifth year, we saw the water chestnut move right back in, making it look like the site had never been treated,” DeHollander says.</div>
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Eradication is very rare, but may be possible if the WC population is small; however, it would be necessary to continue treatment efforts for several years.</div>
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Suppression and containment are more reasonable goals for AIS treatment, particularly for larger AIS populations in isolated ecosystems.</div>
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With WC being such a rapidly spreading plant, it is sometimes necessary to control the spread of this AIS using chemical treatment. This sort of “shock” method is used to stop the growth and spread of the AIS so it hopefully becomes possible to regain control of the spread. It is important for local efforts to identify WC invasion early, so control efforts can be made early to prevent having to chemically treat the invasive spread and risk damaging other species in the surrounding ecosystem.</div>
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To learn more about organizing a local resource, please reference the "Steps and Procedures to Help Organize an Invasive Plant Removal and Disposal" online at <a href="http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/ais/pdfs/CCD-StewSperaWaterChestnutFactSheet1012.pdf">http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/ais/pdfs/CCD-StewSperaWaterChestnutFactSheet1012.pdf</a>.</div>
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In partnership with Oswego County Soil & Water Conservation District (OCSWCD), St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species
Management (SLELO PRISM), and the Oswego County Guides’ Association, the NYSG Launch Steward
Program assisted in educating participants in AIS prevention and helped stop the spread of aquatic invasive species on July 13th, 2013. Approximately 38 participants (many of which included local volunteers) were in attendance; more than 530 pounds of
European water chestnut were removed from the Salmon River during this event. <o:p></o:p>Volunteers were required to bring their own personal flotation devices and boat (kayak or canoe worked as well).</div>
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For more information on protecting native habitats against invasive threats, contact New York Sea Grant at 315-312-3042, SGOswego@cornell.edu.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-58747059764583908932014-09-07T22:17:00.002-04:002014-10-31T10:37:01.835-04:00Can We Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers? Here’s How (By New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Clinton Whittaker)<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Aquatic Invasive species (AIS) are non-native species that cause harm to the environment, the economy or human health. AIS are an increasing problem threatening ecosystems all over the United States. Locally, the eastern and southern shores of Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake are being affected by Eurasian water milfoil and European water chestnut. These AIS can reduce property values, harm ecosystems, reduce native habitats where young fish grow, and damage the overall quality of fishing by making entire areas impossible to fish.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Groups including local state and federal agencies, Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM), and extension programs, including New York Sea Grant (NYSG), implement or educate the public about several methods to prevent or slow the spread of AIS.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Different types of AIS control include prevention, and physical, mechanical, chemical, and biological means.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The mechanical aquatic weed harvester operated by the Sodus Bay Improvement Association. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Prevention involves outreach and education that aims to keep pristine areas free of AIS and to contain AIS infestations to only the infested waters. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">With the goal of prevention in mind, the NYSG Launch Steward Program teaches boaters how to prevent the spread of AIS through voluntary watercraft inspections. The launch stewards are stationed at select boat launches located on Lake Ontario; Oneida Lake; the Oswego, Salmon and Little Salmon Rivers; and Sandy and Stony Creeks to offer voluntary education to boaters on how to look for, remove and properly dispose of unwanted aquatic hitchhiking debris, including AIS. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Through this outreach, the stewards are empowering the public to self-inspect watercraft, and by implementing watercraft inspection the boaters are helping to prevent the spread of AIS.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Physical control uses manpower to manage AIS. Hand pulls to remove water chestnut from infested waters are typically done by groups of people. On Oneida Lake water chestnut hand pulls have been co-organized by the Oneida Lake Rotary Club and New York Sea Grant, and the Finger Lakes PRISM with local Bass Masters. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">The Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District’s hand pull efforts on Oneida Lake are focused at Big and Muskrat Bays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Those interested in organizing a local hand pull will find a how-to tutorial by NYSG Launch Steward Nick Spera online at <a href="http://www.nyseagrant/ccd/stewards">www.nyseagrant/ccd/stewards</a>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Mechanical control uses machinery to cut and remove AIS. The Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District runs a mechanical harvester on Sodus Bay in an effort to control aquatic weeds. The aquatic harvester is used annually to control the water milfoil and curly leaf pondweed there. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Chemical control is an expensive, last-resort means of control that uses aquatic pesticides and requires appropriate training and certification. Chemical treatment to control water chestnut in the Oswego River has resulted in a smaller and less robust water chestnut population compared to years when the chemical control was not used.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Biological control introduces an invasive species’ natural predator into the aquatic environment. Years of controlled laboratory research are completed on biological control methods before a release is tested with diligent monitoring in a water environment. One concern with this method is that the biological control species, e.g., introduction of Pacific salmon to consume alewives in Lake Ontario, should not out-compete or prey on the local natural species. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Prior to the introduction of Pacific salmon in Lake Ontario, the alewife population experienced major die-offs in the summer months. As a result of the Lake Ontario Pacific salmon stocking program by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, the alewife population has been reduced to manageable numbers. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">AIS impact us all. While it may be possible to contain, suppress, and, in some rare cases, eradicate AIS infestations, management takes considerable time and money. Because some control methods can be expensive and labor intensive, education methods, such as the NYSG Launch Steward Program, are important as cost-effective ways of engaging the public in helping to prevent and slow the spread of AIS. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">For more information on protecting native habitats against invasive threats, contact New York Sea Grant at 315-312-3042, <a href="mailto:SGOswego@cornell.edu">SGOswego@cornell.edu</a>. </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-77647371244032600252014-09-02T18:31:00.001-04:002014-10-31T10:38:27.423-04:00What is That on Your Fishing Line & How Do You Report It? Identifying and Reporting Unknown and Aquatic Invasive Species (By New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Brittney Rogers)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you are among the anglers who enjoy fishing on the Great Lakes, have you ever caught something you had never seen before? If you answer yes, you are not alone. More than 180 aquatic invasive species (AIS) in the Great Lakes are disrupting food webs, degrading aquatic habitats, and displacing native species. Do you know what to do if you find an AIS at the end of your fishing line?</div>
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To limit and, in some cases, prevent the spread of AIS and protect the health of popular fishing spots and recreational waterways, it is important for the public to be able to accurately identify and report AIS. Once AIS have become established, it is more difficult to remove or manage them, which is why tracking their distribution range is vital for early detection and controlling the spread of the unwanted species.</div>
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The first step after encountering what you think may be an AIS is to try to properly identify the species. The New York Invasive Species Clearinghouse is a useful tool to help you distinguish between AIS and native lookalikes. To help you identify your ‘catch,’ the Clearinghouse website consists of photos, species-specific characteristics (size, color, etc.), range, and tips for limiting AIS spread.</div>
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If you cannot confidently identify your ‘catch,’ a sample of the species can be delivered to your local Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) representative for identification. Contacts for local PRISMs can be found at <a href="http://www.nyis.info/">www.nyis.info</a>.</div>
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When collecting samples, be sure to seal the specimen in an airtight package, e.g., a sealable plastic bag, and include the date; the location, including GPS coordinates; and your name and contact information.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/content/2353/imgs/CCD-Rogers-RoundGoby090613.jpg" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This round goby, an AIS, was not what an angler hoped to hook on a recent Lake Ontario fishing trip. <br />Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</i></td></tr>
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Terrestrial and aquatic invasive species observations can be reported to New York’s online database <a href="http://www.imapinvasives.org/">www.iMapInvasives.org</a>, managed by the NYS Natural Heritage Program. This tool is user-friendly and field-ready with a smartphone application. </div>
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To upload data to iMapInvasives, you must receive a username that is generated when you attend a free training session, typically offered by PRISMs in the spring.</div>
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After completing training you are ready to begin adding your observational data to the iMapInvasives database. The site provides step-by-step instructions and currently has six different data forms for use: observation, assessment, survey, treatment, infestations, and projects. The site also has species distribution maps, tables, and reports by species/areas.</div>
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If possible, take a well-focused, up-close photograph of the species and of the habitat where the species was found. The photograph can be sent electronically to local experts and may be needed for archiving purposes. Photographs are also suggested as collected specimens can lose their color.</div>
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Once iMapInvasive/PRISM experts receive a reported finding, they will confirm or correct the sighting using the specimen, photographs, and/or site visits.</div>
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The confirmed observational data provided by citizens help PRISM partners develop and implement management strategies for AIS.</div>
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Through species identification and iMapInvasives training, you and natural resource managers gain knowledge about which areas/habitats are at greatest risk of invasion, which species pose the greatest threats, and which areas are the most pristine so you can implement preventative practices to help keep these areas clean of AIS.</div>
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It’s not too late to make a difference in the fight against AIS. For more information on protecting native habitats against invasive threats, contact New York Sea Grant at 315-312-3042, SGOswego@cornell.edu.</div>
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<em style="text-align: center;">This is part of the NYSG Launch Steward article series that was published in local newspapers.</em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07257330612018908061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-10321655156052925372013-09-16T12:47:00.001-04:002014-10-31T10:41:45.113-04:00Help Prevent AIS Spread BEFORE We Pay for Their Management (By NYSG Launch Steward Ryan Thompson)<div style="text-align: justify;">
An Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) is an organism introduced to an ecosystem that disrupts the native habitats of the region. These organisms are spread a number of ways including accidental dispersal by humans. AIS are becoming a persistent problem for waterways in New York State (NYS), clogging boating channels, disrupting the natural food webs, and impacting taxpayers. The impacts of AIS on local economies include AIS management costs, and the potential to decrease shoreline property value.</div>
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According to a study by the Anderson Economic Group, AIS have a huge economic impact on the Great Lakes region. The study states that it is “likely that the overall aggregate level of cost (to industry, consumers, and government) to the Great Lakes region is significantly over $100 million annually.” </div>
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The economic weight of AIS has been felt locally. In 2011, Hydrilla, an aquatic invasive plant, was discovered in the Cayuga Lake inlet in Ithaca, NY. Hydrilla posed three main problems to the economy of the surrounding area: hindering boating experiences, compromising flood control measures, and lowering property tax revenues. </div>
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Efforts to suppress the waterweed have proved to be effective, yet costly. James Balyszak, project manager of the Hydrilla Task Force of the Cayuga Lake Watershed, states that the project is currently in year three of a ten-year plan. Balyszak estimates the expenses of the Hydrilla removal project at $400,000 for 2012. He expects the cost to remain in the $400,000 to $500,000 range per year for the remainder of the project.</div>
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AIS can adversely affect recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, swimming, and lower the overall aesthetics of a property, and have the potential to decrease shoreline property value. There is no definitive estimate for the impact AIS have on property values, however, heavy growth of aquatic weeds, including AIS, can decrease shoreline property values by up to 20 percent, says Invasive Species Specialist Chuck O’Neill with Cornell University Cooperative Extension, Ithaca, NY. O’Neill stresses that, “even a 10 percent drop in waterfront property values can be a big hit to a local community.”</div>
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Suppressing AIS to maintain water and habitat quality is tough work. NYS residents can watch for opportunities to participate in local citizen programs, such as water chestnut pulls. Educational outreach programs, such as the New York Sea Grant (NYSG) Launch Steward Program, are a valuable source of information about AIS, prevention measures, and management efforts for coastal residents, boaters, anglers, municipality leaders, and service groups. </div>
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Shoreline property owners and recreational users can be proactive in protecting their own property from AIS and the associated costs. To help reduce the impacts of AIS on your property and at recreational areas, report any new AIS plant or animal to your local Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) coordinators; find offices via <a href="http://www.nyis.info/">www.nyis.info</a>. </div>
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Those who fish, boat, kayak and canoe are advised to inspect their watercraft and equipment after every use and properly discard any aquatic hitchhiking organisms or debris or collect a specimen for identification by iMapInvasives (http://imapinvasives.org/nyimi/map) and/or local PRISM experts. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><em>Look for, remove and dispose of vegetation on trailers, boats and other surfaces that come into contact with the water. </em><em>Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Clint Whittaker</em><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><em>NYSG Launch Steward inspecting boat for aquatic hitchhikers.</em><br />
<em>Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</em><br />
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Help nip AIS in the bud before they nip us in the pocketbook. For more information on protecting native habitats against invasive threats, contact NYSG at 315-312-3042, SGOswego@cornell.edu. To learn more about the NYSG Launch Steward Program visit: http://nysglaunchsteward.blogspot.com. </div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is part of the NYSG Launch Steward article series that was published in local newspapers.</span></em></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-6927207738631547542013-08-27T11:43:00.002-04:002014-10-31T10:47:43.012-04:00 A Glance at the Aquatic Profile of Sodus Bay (By: NYSG Launch Steward Sophia Oliveira)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Program has expanded to include Sodus Bay, the largest sheltered bay on Lake Ontario. A popular recreational and tourism area, Sodus Bay is an excellent place for the New York Sea Grant Launch Steward Program to be educating the public about the importance of preventing and slowing the spread of harmful aquatic hitchhikers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Boaters enjoying a day on the water at Sodus Bay.</em><br />
<em>Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Sophia Oliveria</em></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">With an average depth of 18 feet and a maximum depth of about 48 feet, Sodus bay provides habitat for fish and other freshwater aquatic organisms. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), Sodus Bay covers a surface area of about 3,357 acres and is located in the Towns of Sodus and Huron in Wayne County.</span></div>
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This extensive bay supports an abundance of fishing, making it a popular year-round fishing destination with the local and out-of-county anglers. Summer bass fishing, ice fishing for perch, and spring bullhead fishing are popular angling activities.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Beautiful day for launching a boat at Sodus Bay</em><br />
<em>Photo by: 2013 </em><em>NYSG Launch Steward, </em><em>Sophia Oliveria</em></td></tr>
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The NYSDEC monitors the fish species in the bay by implementing lake creel surveys, gill net sampling, and electrofishing. Field biologists are evaluating whether or not walleye stocking is effective, along with monitoring fish species and community populations. The bay supports a vast variety of fish including longnose gar, bowfin, northern pike, chain pickerel, channel catfish, brown bullhead, white perch, rock bass, pumpkinseed, bluegill, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black crappie, walleye, yellow perch, gizzard shad, and pugnose shiners. According to International Union for Conservation and Nature, pugnose shiners are a threatened species due in part to habitat degradation.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><em> </em></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><em>"A sunset view of a watercraft
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While the bay provides suitable habitat for native fish and plants, a number of factors, including AIS, are decreasing the water quality and suitability of the ecosystem to the natives. AIS such as Eurasian water milfoil, Curly leaf pondweed, and European water chestnut are becoming nuisances to native plant species by outcompeting for resources.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Wayne County Soil & Water Conservation District's Weed harvesting Program at work in Sodus Bay. </em><br />
<em>Photo by: 2013 </em><em>NYSG Launch Steward, </em><em>Sophia Oliveria</em></td></tr>
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Sodus Bay is a tourism gem of the southern Lake Ontario region, important to both the environment and economy. Stewardship, research, education, outreach, and citizen awareness and interest are all important ways to help support Sodus Bay as a valuable resource for fishing, boating, swimming, and vacationing as well as its role in the local and Great Lakes ecosystems.</div>
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This summer please take the opportunity to meet the NYSG Launch stewards at Sodus Bay, Port Bay, and elsewhere in the shoreline region to learn about the voluntary watercraft inspections that help with AIS management.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>NYSG Launch Steward Brittney Rogers shakes hands with boater after showing him how to inspect his boat for aquatic hitchhikers. Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</i></td></tr>
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For more information on protecting native habitats against invasive threats, contact New York Sea Grant at 315-312-3042, <a href="mailto:SGOswego@cornell.edu">SGOswego@cornell.edu</a>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>This is part of the NYSG Launch Steward article series that was published in local newspapers.</em> </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-22890847921247917382013-08-15T09:12:00.000-04:002014-10-31T11:23:00.129-04:00Reaching Out with Outreach<div style="text-align: left;">
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One of the chief responsibilities of the New York Sea Grant (NYSG) Launch Stewards is educating the public about preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. In addition to launch site education that focuses on teaching boaters how to look for, remove and dispose of aquatic hitchhiking debris and organisms, the launch stewards also provide attendees of local outreach events (festivals, fairs, tradeshows, etc.) and formal outreach events with AIS prevention tips. The 2013 NYSG Launch Stewards have attended a variety of outreach events and participated in hands-on AIS control events. </div>
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<em><b>DUNE FEST</b></em></div>
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The season was kicked off with Dune Fest (organized by NYSG, NYSDEC and NYS Parks) on May 30th, at Southwick Beach State Park. Launch Stewards educated nearly one hundred 7th graders from Belleville-Henderson and Sandy Creek Middle Schools on the aquatic food web of Lake Ontario and impacts of AIS. A game that simulated the interactions between different species in aquatic ecosystems was used to show students how the introduction of AIS significantly disrupts the food web and affects the ecosystem. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The food web diagram above was used to develop the game.</i><br />
<em>Diagram compliments of NOAA</em></td></tr>
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Instructors of each group of students stood in the middle of a circle of students and Launch Stewards and acted as the sun. Stewards explained how the sun provides the necessary energy for the lower level of the building blocks of the wood web (primary producers). Students selected and wore a picture and description of a native species that is found in Lake Ontario. The stewards wore AIS pictures. To represent the species interactions a ball of string was thrown from the sun (the instructor), to native species beginning with primary producers (algae, phytoplankton and aquatic plants). The string was held onto by each person while the ball was thrown to various species throughout the trophic (energy) levels in the ecosystem creating a food web. Once each student had a place in the food web, AIS were introduced by the Stewards who tugged on various parts of the food web demonstrating which native species were affected by the introduction of AIS. The game was a fun interactive way to show students how AIS change the food web. Students learned that everything in nature is connected and that the introduction of AIS changes the food web.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6BR36IRS-y28iUrzVGPqjvkA5Hi6U12Q0j5Pz1NZok_d5B3NOm9LKGF1MpfBEm4DIh6T03zV7dYGlVg5PBhKWoL2pCPDkI_gbWxb0BeUaSHcd4r0Mu7VvIBUvH8tURrWscMyshGTfRI/s1600/9615074559_1862cccd0f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6BR36IRS-y28iUrzVGPqjvkA5Hi6U12Q0j5Pz1NZok_d5B3NOm9LKGF1MpfBEm4DIh6T03zV7dYGlVg5PBhKWoL2pCPDkI_gbWxb0BeUaSHcd4r0Mu7VvIBUvH8tURrWscMyshGTfRI/s1600/9615074559_1862cccd0f_o.jpg" height="320" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>2013 NYSG Launch Steward Megan Pistolese acting as the Sea lamprey during the NYSG Aquatic Food Web activity. Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</i></td></tr>
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<em><b>SAVE OUR SODUS CITIZEN SCIENCE EXPO</b></em></div>
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On June 22, Launch Stewards participated in the Citizen Science Expo held by Save Our Sodus (SOS) at the Sodus Bay Yacht Club. The event helped attendees learn how they can get involved and help prevent and/or slow the spread of AIS. AIS specimens were presented and a discussion was given about the different AIS that are impacting Sodus Bay and Lake Ontario. These specimens were used to show attendees how to properly identify AIS. Attendees also learned how they can prevent the spread of AIS by following the <em><strong>Clean, Drain, Dry</strong></em> messaging.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfP0xLF49Iee8YSYy_8QUwYb3aUMBpjYoIWtD09nlhzyCgTmyK4xb6AnW0pKuTBAKhXOfkMNkZbDjI1hPR5IbNYYKxE_sUrMyTKQjTUWbfPa2-LwaSOVdrAAUYAv2VUaV5QiMFUuNRKEw/s1600/DSCN2868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfP0xLF49Iee8YSYy_8QUwYb3aUMBpjYoIWtD09nlhzyCgTmyK4xb6AnW0pKuTBAKhXOfkMNkZbDjI1hPR5IbNYYKxE_sUrMyTKQjTUWbfPa2-LwaSOVdrAAUYAv2VUaV5QiMFUuNRKEw/s400/DSCN2868.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>NYSG Launch Steward Sophia Oliveira teaches a family about some of the AIS in Lake Ontario. </i><br />
<em>Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</em></td></tr>
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In addition to the NYSG Launch Steward display there were other organizations there to provide valuable information about science of Sodus Bay. Some of the other organizations in attendance included Save Our Sodus, NYSG Clean and Safe Boat, SUNY ESF researcher Dr. Greg Boyer, Wayne County Soil & Water Conservation District, and Wayne-Monroe CCE. It was a great day and event. Thanks to SOS for inviting us and putting this event together to provide the residents of Sodus Bay information about various science efforts going on in the bay.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The 2013 NYSG Clean and Safe Boat at Save Our Sodus' Citizen Science Expo.</i><br />
<em>Photo by: </em><em>NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</em></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Weather station buoy deployed by Dr. Greg Boyer, SUNY ESF.</i><br />
<em>Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</em></td></tr>
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<b><em>SAVE OUR SODUS WATER QUALITY EVENING: WATERCRAFT INSPECTION</em></b></div>
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On July 11th Launch Stewards were invited to speak to teach people about watercraft inspection and common AIS and native lookalikes. A discussion about what Launch Stewards do and how they interact with boaters as well as a boat inspection demonstration was given. Ideas about how to better improve the water quality of Sodus bay were presented. This event was organized by Save Our Sodus, Arney’s Marina and NYSG. </div>
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The Launch Stewards participated in a number of European water chestnut hand-pulls throughout the season. Hand-pull locations included the Salmon River (Pine Grove Boat Launch, Oswego County, NY), Emerald Point in Sodus Bay (Wayne County, NY), and Oneida Lake. European water chestnuts are a common AIS that have become established in many local waters in high densities limiting boating access and impacting the aquatic food web. Physical removal the plant by kayakers and boaters is one of the ways to reduce their populations and help slow their spread. Weed harvesters have also been used throughout Sodus Bay and other parts of the Lake Ontario watershed to help control aquatic invasive plants. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7958PCG53efMzMlStdx0E8snBwcLwvjaJi1dzclKWaBrDzhk64KDjggUfQOeIO2eMkO112BnQW4e9z44lu26OAozYScpkRyR-4xhyuizCtpRFrt0dbmNNjHcvYspJv3Cfp_phb3Q8TO2/s1600/IMG_1858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7958PCG53efMzMlStdx0E8snBwcLwvjaJi1dzclKWaBrDzhk64KDjggUfQOeIO2eMkO112BnQW4e9z44lu26OAozYScpkRyR-4xhyuizCtpRFrt0dbmNNjHcvYspJv3Cfp_phb3Q8TO2/s320/IMG_1858.JPG" height="229" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>NYSG Launch Stewards at the Port Ontario Water Chestnut Hand-Pull at Pine Grove Boat Launch.</i><br />
<i>From left to right: Nick Spera, Brittney Rogers, Megan Pistolese and Clinton Whittaker</i><br />
<i>Photo by: Oswego County Soil and Water Conservation District, John DeHollander</i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjnFpzJWGcTriW5L6E7Pl2FhJHfJbqqtuqK6mv0B3FbxY4HnR-CRIjHL3Tr8HSeQ3eENMIpnPIqCD8FR1AG7kY0d1d3QOgJATozKQBTq2F2xk99fJRZWL0x-fIGc28gPRLeEUZpTA1kfM/s1600/DSCN2897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjnFpzJWGcTriW5L6E7Pl2FhJHfJbqqtuqK6mv0B3FbxY4HnR-CRIjHL3Tr8HSeQ3eENMIpnPIqCD8FR1AG7kY0d1d3QOgJATozKQBTq2F2xk99fJRZWL0x-fIGc28gPRLeEUZpTA1kfM/s320/DSCN2897.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>One of Wayne County Soil & Water Conservation District's Aquatic Weed Harvester in Sodus Bay.</i><br />
<em>Photo by: NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist, Mary Austerman</em></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyITM8IB9nbEqtD1YfMZ4e_l5u3ps1jRg-j5vmuLpWiZ9AmBpUs0Z1bDI_rlkW_c7DbCW-a42PrKBLNoVdjzi2gW6lSugK4CPm8mz6Tf1CW5HS7DfE1R-WeWApsyFHdbsQaFiLPObzLQvK/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyITM8IB9nbEqtD1YfMZ4e_l5u3ps1jRg-j5vmuLpWiZ9AmBpUs0Z1bDI_rlkW_c7DbCW-a42PrKBLNoVdjzi2gW6lSugK4CPm8mz6Tf1CW5HS7DfE1R-WeWApsyFHdbsQaFiLPObzLQvK/s320/IMG_2114.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>NYSG Launch Steward Brittney Rogers hand-pulling European water chestnuts.</i><br />
<em>Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</em><br />
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<em><b>OSWEGO TRIATHLON</b></em></div>
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On June 15th, Launch Steward Ryan Thompson manned a NYSG and AIS informational display at the finish line of the Oswego triathlon. Triathlon organizers are becoming more interested in AIS prevention education at their events because the aquatic leg (swim or paddle) is a potential vector for the spread of AIS. Many attendees admitted they had not thought about their wetsuit, booties, and other triathlon swim gear being a vector for the spread of AIS. During this event participants and onlookers learned about AIS and tips to prevent the spread of aquatic hitchhikers. Attendees were interested in learning about the current status of AIS in Lake Ontario. Anglers in attendance shared stories with Ryan about their experiences with AIS and expressed concern about the potential impacts of AIS on sport fish populations. Events like this allow Launch Stewards to share the <strong><em>Clean, Drain, Dry </em></strong>messaging. </div>
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<em><b>WEAR IT CAMPAIGN</b></em></div>
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On July 29th, Launch Steward Heather Dunham attended a <i>Wear It</i> event at Wright’s Landing. Similar to other events, information about AIS and the NYSG Launch Steward Program was presented to attendees. People were also encouraged to wear life jackets as part of the <i>Wear It</i> event.</div>
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<em><b>EMPIRE FARM DAYS</b></em></div>
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August 7th -8th, Launch Steward Megan Pistolese accompanied Dave White, NYSG Recreation and Tourism Specialist, at the 26th annual Empire Farm Days in Seneca Falls, NY. The event is the largest outdoor agricultural show in the northeast, filling 300 acres with displays of the latest agricultural equipment, educational seminars, demonstrations and opportunities to ask experts about just about anything that has to do with farming. During the event an informational table was displayed showing viewers examples of AIS. NYSG spoke with attendees about the impacts of AIS and how implementing the <em><strong>Clean, Drain, Dry</strong></em> messaging can prevent their spread. Dave White gave demonstrations on the various life jackets that can be worn and the Clean and Safe boat was loaded up with different types of boater safety equipment.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosDPyLPyW-luafCwXAcfn0c4IHuuPh83ABrVSg3qiP7rt9rC0Ln31wTcB-AiWnFmI8ANalC6esQi2QMjc0Gq8-X9cw3L8LSUkehvgs9AdTWglwux6z1daBysoF250ENvVZqxmQFKO_J-g/s1600/IMG_2402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosDPyLPyW-luafCwXAcfn0c4IHuuPh83ABrVSg3qiP7rt9rC0Ln31wTcB-AiWnFmI8ANalC6esQi2QMjc0Gq8-X9cw3L8LSUkehvgs9AdTWglwux6z1daBysoF250ENvVZqxmQFKO_J-g/s320/IMG_2402.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dave White discusses AIS issues with a colleague at Empire Farm Days in Seneca Falls, NY. <br />Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_spzDP8rNznZKGh8OuXc0QfVIcC248nbSby7BGFtTdkcEWmA7t4ckR8eVcMqUIZS5ba0kpwSoCSzmPKPyywIfw1RbQgbwe5MEr0P16G4BhNUVVdjcE1FvH1FfpGFP9YrAlA3gqYFPFolR/s1600/IMG_2408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_spzDP8rNznZKGh8OuXc0QfVIcC248nbSby7BGFtTdkcEWmA7t4ckR8eVcMqUIZS5ba0kpwSoCSzmPKPyywIfw1RbQgbwe5MEr0P16G4BhNUVVdjcE1FvH1FfpGFP9YrAlA3gqYFPFolR/s320/IMG_2408.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>AIS information table at Empire Farm Days</i><br />
<em>Photo by: </em><em style="font-size: small;">2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</em></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9WllQY6sQ38XtnTk-sxaAXwMkPk1iRTZnoa0AXM_Juj7iQizUBwBIKL72FSc8G8HucMd4E-j8TGyCDg17aJ4ZWOkkvQMX1n2B6dvwgEKvknoVinOK-sIZg_R5kdH3m9_snG48fvs9TaV/s1600/IMG_2409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9WllQY6sQ38XtnTk-sxaAXwMkPk1iRTZnoa0AXM_Juj7iQizUBwBIKL72FSc8G8HucMd4E-j8TGyCDg17aJ4ZWOkkvQMX1n2B6dvwgEKvknoVinOK-sIZg_R5kdH3m9_snG48fvs9TaV/s320/IMG_2409.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>NYSG Clean and Safe Boat Display</i><br />
<em>Photo by:</em><em style="font-size: small;"> 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</em></td></tr>
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Although a few weeks remain, we hope you will take the chance to stop by and visit with us at future outreach events. The NYSG Launch Steward Program would like to thank all of the organizations that have invited us to participate and partnered with us in these outreach events. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-27201406198596974452013-06-25T10:12:00.002-04:002014-10-31T11:31:47.124-04:00Meet the 2013 NYSG Launch Stewards<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i>New York Sea Grant's Launch Steward Program Expanding for 2013!</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013 NYSG Launch Steward Crew<br />
Top (L to R): Nick Spera, Clinton Whittaker, Ryan Thompson<br />
Middle (L to R): Brittney Rogers, Mary Penney<br />
Bottom (L to R): Heather Dunham, Sophia Oliveira, Megan Pistolese<br />
Photo by: Dave White, NYSG</td></tr>
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The summer Launch Steward program coordinated by New York Sea Grant (NYSG) is expanding from Jefferson and Oswego counties to include waterfront sites in Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, and Wayne counties.</div>
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In 2013, the NYSG Launch Steward Program that informs the public about the Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake and inland rivers environment is focused on offering voluntary watercraft inspection education to motorized and non-motorized boaters at 15 launch sites.</div>
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The seven college students hired as the 2013 NYSG Launch Stewards are now covering the eastern Lake Ontario shoreline from Sodus Bay to Henderson, the Oswego River, Little Salmon River, Sandy Creek, Stony Creek, and the Oneida Lake.</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Nick Spera of Brewerton, NY, takes on the role of Chief Steward in 2013. He will assist the sic new incoming stewards and expand his own educational outreach focused on public involvement in AIS management through such activities as water chestnut pulls. Nick is an Environmental Science and Psychology graduate of Nazareth College.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Sophia Oliveira of New Milford, CT, is a 2013 biology graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology. She plans to continue her education with graduate studies focused on conservation and wildlife biology in the fall.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Megan Pistolese of Watertown, NY, will be a senior environmental science major with Empire State College in the fall. She is interested to participate in public educational efforts to preserve local waterfront environment.</li>
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Four of the stewards were graduates of students of SUNY Oswego, </div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Heather Dunham of Hornell, NY, will be a senior zoology major in the fall. The educational aspect of the Launch Steward programs fits her interest in becoming an educator at a zoo.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Brittney Rogers of Mexico, NY, is a 2013 zoology graduate of SUNY Oswego. Her goal is to pursue a career in wildlife rehabilitation and outreach and conservation.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Ryan Thompson of Savona, NY, is a SUNY Oswego graduate with a biology degree and an interest in environmental health and biosecurity career opportunities.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Clinton A. Whittaker, Jr. of Manchester, NY, will be a senior biology major at SUNY Oswego in the fall. He is pursuing multidisciplinary interests in the field of ecology.</li>
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The goal of the inspections and public education programs offered throughout the boating season by the NYSG Launch Stewards is to empower boaters to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).</div>
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NYSG Coastal Community Development Specialist Mary Austerman serves as the Launch Steward Program Coordinator. NYSG coordinates the Launch Steward Program in cooperation with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Parks, the Towns of Henderson, Scriba and Sodus, the City of Oswego and Onondaga County. Funding is through a Great Lakes restoration Initiative contract administered by the Finger Lakes-Lake Ontario Watershed Protection Alliance.</div>
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Mary E Penneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04457543021480552120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3286526110238477335.post-60249249494506578662013-06-04T11:42:00.003-04:002014-10-31T11:45:32.363-04:00What is New York Sea Grant and Who are the New York Sea Grant Launch Stewards? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b>What is New York Sea Grant?</b></i><br />
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New York Sea Grant (NYSG) with Great Lakes and marine district offices, is among the largest of 33 university programs stemmed from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's NationalSea Grant College Program— with a breadth reaching to every U.S. coastal and Great Lakes state, Guam and Puerto Rico.</div>
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NYSG is a federal and state funded research and extension network dedicated to maintaining the environmental quality of coastal and aquatic ecosystems by providing university-based scientific research, education and community outreach programs.</div>
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NYSG is a cooperative program through the State University of New York (SUNY) and Cornell University. Currently, NYSG is funding 20 research and outreach projects focused on preserving New York State's aquatic natural resources (nyseagrant.edu). The NYSG supports research projects that focus on important environmental issues that affect aquatic ecosystems. Unbiased scientific techniques and peer-reviewed processes are used to conduct research through the NYSG. To see the current research NYSG is funding visit: is <a href="http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/articles/t/research-nysg-funded-projects">http://www.seagrant.sunysb.edu/articles/t/research-nysg-funded-projects</a>. </div>
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NYSG Extension provides outreach to various coastal stakeholders. One outreach program currently under way is the NYSG Launch Steward Program that provides outreach to boaters and teaches them how to prevent the spread of unwanted aquatic hitchhikers, including Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). AIS are non-native aquatic species that can cause harm to the environment, the economy or human health. Once AIS have become established in an ecosystem, they are difficult and expensive to manage. AIS can degrade boating and fishing areas and reduce tourism and lakeshore property value—negatively impacting the local economy. </div>
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<i><b>How have AIS Spread into NY's Waters?</b></i><br />
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Many AIS were introduced into the Great Lakes in the late 1950’s due to the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway and canal system, which allowed oceanic ships to travel into the Great Lakes. To maintain navigational stability, these large ships fill their ballast tanks with millions of gallons of water, known as ballast water. </div>
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The United States Environmental Protection Agency identifies ballast water as a significant source of the AIS introduction in the Great Lakes. As the ships travel on their voyages, they take on and dump ballast water as needed for navigation, potentially sucking up and releasing AIS.</div>
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Once AIS were introduced to the Great Lakes, some had the ability to spread quickly by hitchhiking on watercrafts, in bilge and live well water, fishing and diving gear, and through animal activities. More than 180 different AIS have been introduced to the Great Lakes. Some of the most prevalent species that have been introduced are sea lampreys, zebra mussels, spiny waterfleas, round gobys,alewives, Eurasian watermilfoil, purple loosestrife, curly-leaf pondweed and European water chestnuts.</div>
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Since these species are highly competitive and have the potential to cause environmental and economic problems, they have become a targeted focus of the NYSG Launch Steward Program’s outreach efforts.</div>
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<i><b>What is the NYSG Launch Steward Program?</b></i><br />
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To increase boaters’ awareness, the NYSG Launch Stewards are stationed at boat launches along the southern and eastern shores of Lake Ontario, including tributaries and embayments, and along the southern shore of Oneida Lake. Launch Stewards offer boaters the voluntary opportunity to learn how to conduct watercraft inspections by looking for, removing, and disposing of AIS and other aquatic hitchhiking debris that may have attached to boats, trailers, and other equipment. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVQakSgpE1ms1nMEy5aWFJXAts8ItHrc4pb-QQQ1evfXC4L4YH9hygWm7QRCR4TmBSHbPYAIctEU_fE8GzO6WuS26WaSAgSadCTea42kJUIKUnVG_7ojW3r8J2I2a4_Cg3xq9TvJ0lpQ/s1600/Brittney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVQakSgpE1ms1nMEy5aWFJXAts8ItHrc4pb-QQQ1evfXC4L4YH9hygWm7QRCR4TmBSHbPYAIctEU_fE8GzO6WuS26WaSAgSadCTea42kJUIKUnVG_7ojW3r8J2I2a4_Cg3xq9TvJ0lpQ/s400/Brittney.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>NYSG Launch Steward Brittney Rogers removes Curly-leaf pondweed, an AIS, from a boat trailer at Henderson Harbor, NY. Photo by: 2013 NYSG Launch Steward, Megan Pistolese</i></span></td></tr>
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By reaching out to the boating community and teaching people how to stop the spread of AIS, Launch Stewards encourage the public to do their part to protect New York’s valuable waters. As part of AIS prevention, the NYSG Launch Steward Program has adopted the national Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers campaign by explaining how important it is to “<i><b>Clean, Drain and Dry</b></i>” motorized and non-motorized watercrafts and other equipment before leaving and entering water bodies. This is a simple message that will inform boat owners about how they can stop the spread of AIS and improve aquatic ecosystems. Educational outreach programs, such as this, help community members understand the delicate balance that exists within an ecosystem and how human activities can help or destroy that balance. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhT2iI7bEpYjRXoeyTC_uU8hEK8htZG-H2XtDudflzngUOm3wCUg3AVv8bPm9e6qq7L7RYsOWkFLVFu2bR1X2HIcCKm3-vsh5w2vDrjkqT4XNb_GlyU4tnO0VVerir-U5-a_fB9Bmv0o/s1600/Megan.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhT2iI7bEpYjRXoeyTC_uU8hEK8htZG-H2XtDudflzngUOm3wCUg3AVv8bPm9e6qq7L7RYsOWkFLVFu2bR1X2HIcCKm3-vsh5w2vDrjkqT4XNb_GlyU4tnO0VVerir-U5-a_fB9Bmv0o/s400/Megan.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>NYSG Launch Steward Megan Pistolese talks to a father and son about how to stop aquatic hitchhikers. </i><i>Photo by: NYSG Launch Steward, Brittney Rogers.</i></span></td></tr>
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Do your part and protect our beautiful waters and <b><i>Clean, Drain, and Dry</i></b> your watercraft!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-600waf2l6bap49hfLWfmCLZTmi7R7IwfF0RleHoMyo_zuJCI5kaKkVifSv9GXFhHIYSrni4xWeoaZn-wnvqYgplVJYYqye6dDQGOowYshtUoHETq7d6iItXMWNBXC6y839UJzk_cZM/s1600/NYSG+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-600waf2l6bap49hfLWfmCLZTmi7R7IwfF0RleHoMyo_zuJCI5kaKkVifSv9GXFhHIYSrni4xWeoaZn-wnvqYgplVJYYqye6dDQGOowYshtUoHETq7d6iItXMWNBXC6y839UJzk_cZM/s200/NYSG+logo.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzkIYrwnQud_aj0JAzMJA76OTKx_G64_jBHocGGCh293mEjIOO6V5eTp-26WczSHpEk1CvgJu7Z4ZZLh1mJkQuOV3PieTPvSkMq4W18Z5mnuzgDscwD659cs5ngezEFZonKm3EvsUi_A/s1600/aquatic+hitchhiker+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzkIYrwnQud_aj0JAzMJA76OTKx_G64_jBHocGGCh293mEjIOO6V5eTp-26WczSHpEk1CvgJu7Z4ZZLh1mJkQuOV3PieTPvSkMq4W18Z5mnuzgDscwD659cs5ngezEFZonKm3EvsUi_A/s200/aquatic+hitchhiker+logo.jpg" height="80" width="200" /></a><br />
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<i style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post was written by: </span></i><i style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2013 NYSG Launch Steward, </span></i><i style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Megan Pistolese.</span></i></div>
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Paul C. Focaziohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14185622692481404185noreply@blogger.com1