Boat washing security tags pilot program launched on Lakes Magog and Massawippi

Sherbrooke, August 27, 2024 – A new pilot program has been introduced on Lakes Magog and Massawippi aimed at preventing the spread of invasive species.

It works this way — boat operators can get a tag which connect boats to their trailers when it is removed from the lake. When a boat owner brings a boat back to the same body of water, the tag identifies the watercraft as a having been in the same lake, eliminating the need to wash the boat before being put back into the water.

David O’Connor, Environmental Project Manager at the Conseil Régional de l’Environnement de l’Estrie, explains that the tags are an affordable and efficient way to reduce wait times at wash stations.

Future expansion to Lake Memphremagog is planned due to its high traffic and long wait times. The program simplifies the setup process for municipalities and lake associations, promising significant benefits for local communities.