Boat Cleaning

Learn how to have a fun day on the water while keeping the lake free of invasive species.

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants and animals that threaten native plants, wildlife, and their habitat. They also affect humans by degrading boating and fishing areas, and reducing lake shore property values.

Once established, eradication is almost impossible.

You can help prevent the introduction of new invasive species by making sure you clean, drain, and dry all boating, fishing, and other recreational equipment before you use it in any body of water.

For more information about AIS spread prevention efforts to protect our Lake and detailed decontamination procedures,visit the DEC NY website.

Boating Safety

We ask that all residents, guests and renters adhere to the below guidelines and rules to create an atmosphere of safe and friendly lake recreation.

  • Watercraft should not be operated in a reckless or negligent manner or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Boats should not be operated at speeds in excess of 40 mph and common sense rules of etiquette should be applied at any speed.
  • NY State law prohibits speeds in excess of 5 mph within 100 feet of swimming and docking areas and within 100 feet of any shoreline.
  • Swim floats and moorings must be kept within 50 feet of shore.
  • Motorized boat users are asked to always be conscious of damage that may be caused by their wake either to shoreline or other boaters.
  • Clearance between watercraft, people, docks and moorings should be maintained at a minimum of 100 feet or more.
  • Non motorized boats have the right of way at all times, but all boaters should be aware of other boats and the paths they may take; always try to avoid an unsafe condition.
  • From sunset until sunrise watercraft must use running lights, lanterns or flashlights.
  • “Cover boats” should accompany all persons swimming more than 100 feet from shore.
  • Boats and trailers used in other lakes shall be thoroughly cleaned (propellers, bottoms, bait wells, etc.) before launching into Butterfield lake to avoid transference of harmful plants and marine life.
  • Do not feed ducks. Ducks cause swimmers itch.
  • NY State law requires that life jackets must be on board for each occupant of any watercraft regardless of age of occupant and that children under age 12 must wear a life jacket when on board.
  • NY State Law requires that a boat towing a water skier, surfboard, tube or any device must have a spotter at least age 10 aboard in addition to the driver.
  • Boat drivers under age 18 are required by law to have completed a boating safety course and obtained a State Certificate. (Boating Safety Course).
  • Dumping of any waste, litter, garbage, fuel, oil or sewage into any lake is unlawful.

Know Before You Go — Safety & Legal Essentials

Safety Boating Courses

  • Brianna’s Law mandates safety courses for all operators of motorized vessels—including personal watercraft and specialty craft. While non-motorized craft operators (e.g. kayaks, canoes) aren’t legally required to take the course, it’s strongly recommended.

  • Minimum age to take the course is 10 years. Certificates are valid for life, but the original physical certificate must be carried aboard while operating a motorized boat. 

  • NY recognizes out-of-state NASBLA-approved safe boating certificates.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

  • Every boater must have a US Coast Guard–approved life jacket per person, easily accessible, undamaged, and properly sized. New York State Parks

Clean, Drain, Dry Policy

  • Boats and gear must be cleaned, drained, dried, or treated before launch to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Inspections or decon stations are available at select locations. New York State Parks

Float Plans

  • Boaters should create a float plan detailing vessel description, passengers, itinerary, timings, return plans, and emergency contacts, and share it with someone onshore.

Accident Reporting

  • Accidents involving injury (beyond basic first aid), death, or damage over $1,000 must be reported to NYS Parks within 5 days using the proper form

 

Rules & Practical Tips

Personal Watercraft (JetSkis etc.)

  • Operators must be at least 14 years old and complete a safe boating course.

  • Usage is prohibited before dawn or after dusk. All riders must wear USCG-approved lifejackets. PWCs require additional equipment—backfire flame arrestor, muffled exhaust, ventilation—plus sound devices, distress signals, and an engine cutoff switch attached to the operator.

Paddlecraft & Sailboats

  • Non-motorized paddlecraft (like canoes and kayaks) do not require registration, but any mechanically propelled paddle or sail craft must be registered with the DMV.

  • Visibility is critical—wear bright gear, stick near shore, and consider safety flags or reflective tape.

  • Children under 12 must always wear properly sized USCG-approved life jackets.

Towed Activities (e.g. waterskiing, tubing)

  • Require three people: operator, observer (minimum age 10), and the person being towed.

  • No towing allowed after sunset or before sunrise. USCG-approved life jackets are mandatory for towed riders. 

Diving, Fishing, & Swimming

  • Keep at least 100 feet away from “Divers Down” flags. Slow and cautious navigation is essential. 

  • When approaching fishing boats, give space—and be mindful of your wake.

  • Swimmers should stay near anchored boats, wear life jackets (especially in cold or fast-moving waters), and swim with a buddy. Turn off boat engines to avoid carbon monoxide risks.

Visit www.parks.ny.gov for more information