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Thursday, February 27, 2003

Launch plan a good solution

Last week the board of trustees approved a plan that will require any boat being launched at the village's two ramps to first be washed if it fails to pass an inspection in an effort to prevent the introduction of zebra mussels into Otsego Lake.

The plan came from the zebra mussel committee which had researched the effectiveness of boat washing. In talking with staff members of the biological field station and the DEC, it became apparent that rather than require all boats to automatically be washed, it would make more sense to inspect them. If there is evidence of mussels on the hull, aquatic weeds on the boat or trailer, or water in the interior of the boat, it would have to be washed, otherwise it could go ahead and launch.

While it will cause some delays for boaters, it will not be nearly as onerous or time-consuming as mandatory washing of all boats.

Village officials responded quickly to the threat last summer and this winter have done a good job of developing a plan which we believe will go a long way toward safeguarding the lake.

 
 
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