Otter Lake introduces new boat washing station for the community

Otter Lake introduces new boat washing station for the community

In an effort to keep invasive species out of their region’s lakes and waterways, Otter Lake has invested in a new boat washing station, located outside the municipal garage on avenue Palmer. The station, which is operated with magnetic cards, will be free to use for Otter Lake residents, with visitors charged $10.

Otter Lake Mayor Terry Lafleur explained that there had been a boat washing station in the past, the upgraded set up has been in the works for a couple of years thanks to the efforts of council and local citizens.

Lafleur explained that the wash will come with a certificate to display, as there is a new municipal by-law requiring all boaters to wash their boats and trailers before putting into any local lakes. He added that they would be enforcing the by-law at local boat launches. For non-motorized vessels like canoes and kayaks, there is a short cycle on the washing station that is free for everyone.

Lafleur said that once an invasive species arrives in a body of water, it can be near impossible (as well as incredibly expensive) to eradicate. He said that he doesn’t know of any lakes in his jurisdiction that have been contaminated, which is why prevention is so important.

The full interview with Lafleur is available here.