DEEP Reminds Boaters to Purchase Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp Ahead of Increased Enforcement

AIS Stamp Supports Funding for Grants to Non-profits and Municipalities to Combat the Spread of Invasive Species

(HARTFORD) – The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) reminds boaters to purchase their 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Stamp ahead of enhanced enforcement efforts later this summer. Anyone who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft on Connecticut’s inland waters, including the designated inland waters of the Connecticut, Housatonic and Thames Rivers, is required to purchase an AIS Stamp. The AIS Stamp can be purchased through DEEP’s online Sportsmen Licensing System or wherever fishing licenses are sold. An annual AIS Stamp purchase is required for both Connecticut residents and out-of-state visitors operating a registered vessel on Connecticut’s inland waters.

The spread of aquatic invasive species can wreak havoc on the economy and the environment. Aquatic Invasive Species are non-native plants or animals which, when introduced into aquatic environments and left unchecked, can cause significant harm to native wildlife species, water quality, and recreational opportunities for boaters and anglers. Connecticut is no stranger to these nuisance species, with several aggressive plants, fish, and shellfish currently dispersed throughout our waterbodies.

Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species is one of the most important steps we can take to protect Connecticut’s inland waterways,” said Acting DEEP Commissioner Emma Cimino. “The AIS Stamp provides critical funding for grant programs that help prevent and treat invasive species.”

DEEP Environmental Conservation Police officers will be conducting AIS Stamp compliance checks on inland waters across the state this summer,” said Colonel Brian Newman, Director of the DEEP Environmental Conservation Police. “We want everyone to enjoy their time on the water, so before you head out, take a moment to make sure you've purchased your AIS Stamp. Doing so keeps you in compliance with state law and helps protect Connecticut's lakes and rivers from aquatic invasive species.”

The State Legislature established the AIS Stamp Program in 2019, and it is the primary source of funding for the Lakes, Ponds, and Rivers Preservation Account which provides grant funding to non-profit groups and municipalities throughout Connecticut for research, treatment, and education campaigns that combat AIS. Since 2020, through this grant program, DEEP has awarded nearly $2.4 million to 80 projects, supporting education and outreach efforts, AIS management, and monitoring programs. Previously the AIS Stamp fee was included with boat registrations. Beginning in October 2024, the fee was removed from registrations and boaters are now required to purchase the AIS Stamp annually through the Sportsmen Licensing System. For more details on the AIS Stamp and how the funds are used, please visit the DEEP AIS Stamp frequently asked questions website.

Twitter: @CTDEEPNews

Facebook: DEEP on Facebook

Contact

DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110

Click here to receive DEEP Press Releases via email.