LANSING, NY (607NewsNow) – You can learn how to do your part in protecting Cayuga Lake.

On September 10, the Cayuga Lake Watershed Network and Paddle-N-More are offering a free Guided Paddle & Aquatic Plant Exploration at Myers Park in Lansing.

Participants will hit the water on provided kayaks and learn from DEC and Finger Lakes PRISM (Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management) how to identify native and invasive species.

“Exploring Cayuga Lake by kayak is an incredible way to connect with our watershed,” said Cayuga Lake Watershed Network Executive Director Liz Kreitinger. “At the same time, we want to equip people with knowledge and simple actions they can take to protect the lake.”

One way to help limit the pervasiveness of invasive species like hydrilla – clean. Myers Park now offers a free Watercraft Cleaning Station for use before launching or after hauling out. It’s one of several similar stations available at other high-traffic launch areas in the Finger Lakes.

Boaters are advised to avoid going through hydrilla mats and to clean all mud and plant fragments from the vessel, trailers, propellers, waders, and gear.  Additionally, it’s advised to drain all water from boats, live wells, and gear, and dry everything after each use.

Residents are asked to refrain from releasing aquarium or water garden plants into the wild.

Registration is required here. Use the code LOVEYOURLAKE25 at checkout for a 100% discount. Participants will also have their park entry fees waived.

The event takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 on Wednesday night at Myers Park. A make-up date is scheduled for September 18 if there’s rain.