On the Lake: Protecting Damariscotta Lake This Season
With the ice out on Damariscotta Lake, we are looking ahead to the summer season on the water.
A key part of this work is our aquatic invasive species prevention program, a foundational effort to help keep Damariscotta Lake healthy. We do a lot to safeguard this treasured lake, but there are two main ways to get involved - Courtsey Boat Inspection and Invasive Plant Patrol.
Our Courtesy Boat Inspection (CBI) program places trained staff and volunteers at boat launches to conduct voluntary inspections for recreationists entering and leaving the lake. These inspections help prevent the introduction of invasive plants and provide an opportunity to share how boaters can help protect our waters.
Because we can’t be at every launch at all times, we encourage everyone to take a few simple steps when moving between water bodies:
Clean: Remove plants, mud, animals, and debris from boat, motor, trailer, and equipment
Drain: Empty bilge water, live wells, equipment, and water from the engine
Dry: Let your boat, trailer, and gear fully dry (5 days in the sun is recommended)
These small actions make a big difference in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species, like hydrilla or milfoil, across Maine’s lakes.
Our second volunteer opportunity, Invasive Plant Patrol, will begin as the lake warms—we’ll share more soon.
In the meantime, as you head out on the water, remember to Clean, Drain, and Dry.
