It is now illegal to launch watercraft without taking measures to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species such as zebra mussels and milfoil, which have infested local waters, according to state officials.

The problem hits home in St. Lawrence County where Black Lake and Norwood Lake are fighting the spread of Eurasian milfoil, while the St. Lawrence River has been invaded by zebra mussels and round gobies.

The law signed by Governor Cuomo makes it the responsibility of boaters launching watercraft “to use common sense when putting in and taking out their boats.”

Cuomo says the legislation will help prevent the spread between water bodies and introduction of invasive species in new water bodies throughout New York.

According to the bill, the boater should first clean, drain and dry the boat, trailer, and any other exposed equipment of visible plant and animal matter, prior to launching watercraft.

The law says boaters may launch watercraft if they have “taken other reasonable measures to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.”

A press release from the governor’s office did not describe what other measures could be taken, or if penalties or fines would be levied on boaters who did not follow the new law.

Gov. Cuomo said invasive species are a threat because they have few natural predators in their new environment and can carry harmful diseases.

“Ultimately, invasives can outcompete native plants and animals and change entire ecosystems. Aquatic invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the state's treasured waterways because once introduced, they are nearly impossible to eradicate and expensive to manage,” the release says.

“The natural beauty that is found in every corner of New York is second to none, and it is imperative that we do everything possible to protect that from the dangers of invasive species,” Governor Cuomo said. “We all share a responsibility to protect our natural environment, and this legislation helps ensure that all who enjoy New York’s waters will also do their part to limit the spread of different types of aquatic life that would otherwise harm the local ecosystem.”

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, aquatic invasive species seriously threaten economically important industries, such as tourism and fishing. Invasive species cost the U.S. economy an estimated $120 billion per year, and while the State has implemented various programs designed to control the spread of aquatic invasives, it is far more cost-effective to prevent them altogether.