Many waters in New York State have been affected by the unintentional introduction of non-native plants and animals such as zebra mussels, Eurasian water milfoil, water chestnut and the spiny water flea. Often, when species such as these are first introduced, there is an absence of natural mechanisms such as predators or diseases to control these new organisms and so their numbers can skyrocket out of control. The new invading species may rapidly displace native species by outcompeting them for resources such as food and growing space. As a result, the entire natural balance and species composition of the aquatic system can be seriously disrupted, including the fisheries. 

To Stop Aquatic Invaders

1.      Remove all mud and aquatic plants from all gear, boats, motors and trailers before departing from an access site.
2.      Drain all water including bilges, live wells and bait tanks before departing from an access site.
3.      Dry boat and equipment thoroughly after use, or flush bilges and clean boat with very hot water or steam clean.
4.      Do not transport fish from one body of water to another.
5.      Do not release unused bait into any body of water, dump bait buckets on land away from the water.
6.      Do not dispose of fish carcasses or by-products in any body of water.

Do Not assume that a body of water is already contaminated and ignore protective measures. 

For more information, please visit:

Protect Your Waters

New York State DEC

US Geological Survey

Downloadable Reports

 GSLFF Trout Stocking Report By Year

GREAT SACANDAGA LAKE
COLIFORM MONITORING PROGRAM – 2011
SECOND INTERIM REPORT

2010 Darrin Freshwater Institute Final Report of the Great Sacandaga Lake

Invasive Species Possible to GSL 

Invasive Species Brochure

Spiny Water Flea Sign

2010 GSL Angler Diary Report

NYS Freshwater Fishing Regulations