Watercraft Steward Program

The Chautauqua Lake Association Watercraft Steward Program is a regional spread prevention and public education program with the goal of preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) via voluntary watercraft inspections. Our Stewards promote public understanding of AIS regulations, as well as educating boaters and lake users on basic management practices that they can implement to avoid spreading AIS to un-infested waterbodies via their boats, trailers, or recreational gear. 

The CLA Stewards monitor launches across Chautauqua County including Chautauqua Lake, Cassadaga Lake and Lake Erie, where they gather data and inspect boats for aquatic invasive species as part of an early detection/rapid response spread prevention effort. Stewards also educate boaters and visitors about aquatic invasive species (AIS) and how the general public can help slow the spread of AIS. This is part of a statewide Clean, Drain, Dry spread prevention and awareness program.