Pilot project invites boaters to use cleaning system to help manage invasive species

The County is participating in a pilot project involving a free of charge boat cleaning station to be set up over the next two months at several boat launches.

All watercraft, including boats, canoes, and kayaks, are potential carriers of invasive species that cause significant harm to local ecosystems by outcompeting with native species and disrupting recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.

Boaters are encouraged to use the boat cleaning station to help reduce the transfer of harmful species from one body of water to another.

In partnership with Quinte Conservation and the Invasive Species Centre, a CD3 Wayside Solar Trailer (a waterless watercraft-cleaning system) will be available for boaters during the following times:

Monday, Sept. 9 – Saturday, Sept. 14:
Rossmore Boat Launch (Ridley Street North near the Norris Whitney Bridge)

Saturday, Sept. 14 – Thursday, Sept. 19:
Weller’s Bay Boat Launch (158 Edward Drive)

Thursday, Sept. 19 – Saturday, Sept. 28:
Roblin Lake Boat Launch (49 Coleman Street)

Saturday, Sept. 28 – Friday, Oct. 4:
Wellington Rotary Beach Boat Launch (153 Wellington Main Street)

Friday, Oct. 4 – Tuesday, Oct. 15:
Northport Boat Launch (1417 B County Road 15)