Upstate reservoirs to allow canoe, kayak rentals

ALBANY, N.Y. — The agency that regulates New York City's upstate water supplies says boat rental companies can now store canoes and kayaks along four reservoirs in the Catskills.

The city Department of Environmental Protection says that's a first and should help promote tourism in the area.

It says about a dozen businesses are apparently interested in setting up shop on the Cannonsville, Pepacton, Neversink and Schoharie reservoirs.

The DEP has already arranged for 30 racks, each of which would hold four boats, and will be taking proposals from businesses.

Another benefit is that the boats won't have to be steam-cleaned to prevent the spread of invasive species since they won't be used elsewhere.

Personal boats brought to the reservoirs must be cleaned. All boaters must get DEP permits before hitting the water.