If you are boater in New York State, you probably are not aware of the fact that you are getting ripped off.

First, most boaters are not aware that New York diverts the registration surcharge money that is supposed to be set aside for boater access programs.

The I Boat I Vote website uses its homepage at http://www.iboatnys.com to help boaters know their rights.

The site offers information to help boaters keep track of the politics both current and upcoming that will affect your ownership of a vessel in New York.

I Boat I Vote is an advocacy program sponsored by the Empire State Marine Trades Association. (ESTMA). The goal of the program is to connect boaters with marinas and retailers as well as to keep recreational boaters informed about legislation specific to boating.

With a blog and a law menu to help under-informed readers educate themselves about current and proposed policies, the site is an informative tool with great tidbits about misdirected funds and lack of concern for our waterways.

Joining I Boat I Vote campaign entitles a recreational boater to important boating news and information, legislative updates, boater education resources and discounts at participating marinas. It’s a win-win situation.

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In recognition of the importance of forests to the health and well-being of society, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced a photo contest to “Celebrate New York’s Forests.”

The contest is designed to increase awareness of and appreciation for all types of forests, urban and rural, large and small, public and privately owned, across the state. In the 19th century, conservationists recognized the importance of nature as a refuge from the noise and bustle of city life. Modern technology has disconnected many people from the outdoors. Virtual pastimes now rival natural, outdoor activities.

Submitted photos should capture all aspects of forests and trees in five different categories: Nature (wildlife, plants, natural landscapes, etc.); enjoying the forest (hunting, fishing, trails, camping, hiking, etc.); trees where we live (parks, streets, yards, etc.); forest products (maple syrup, lumber, baseball bats, furniture, etc.) and state-owned forests (preserve lands, forested wildlife management areas, campgrounds).

Contest details, rules and necessary forms can be found on DEC’s website at dec.ny.gov.