Whether you’re hiking into a remote lean-to, driving to a lakeside campsite, or exploring in your RV, you can take action to prevent the spread of invasive species in the Adirondacks.

So what can you do? Follow these three easy steps: 

• Invasive plants, insects, and fungi can come with you to the forest, caves, lakes, and anywhere else you go in the out of doors. Before and after every camping adventure, take a moment to inspect your gear, boots, clothing and vehicles. Remove any mud, plant material, or debris you see.
• Wash tents, vehicles, hiking poles, boots, and other gear after every trip. Particularly important if you are planning to visit one of New York's many cave complexes, follow local site closures and material cleaning procedures to help protect delicate ecosystems. 
• Use only local firewood for your campfires and burn it where you buy it rather than bringing wood from home in order to protect forests from tree killing insects.