Understanding the waterway marking systems is important, as these markers will identify safe waters, convey important information to the skipper, and assist in navigation. There are two primary types of aids to navigation: channel markers and special markers.

Aids to Navigation are placed by four agencies in New York:

• U.S. Coast Guard - all tidal and ocean waterways, including the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain
• Dept. of Environmental Conservation - Adirondack and Catskill Park Regions
• NYS Thruway Authority - Barge Canal System
• State Parks - all other waterways

Navigational or Channel Marker

The location of the head of navigation is the key to the placement and use of channel markers. The head of navigation is generally the source of the body of water, or in most cases the farthest upstream point that a boat can safely navigate. On a lake the inlet is considered the head of navigation, and the buoys are placed in respect to that. On a lake with more than one inlet, the larger or major inlet is considered the head of navigation. When entering a harbor (on a lake or the ocean) the landward end of a channel is used as the head of navigation only for the placement of buoys on that channel.

When in a channel proceeding toward the head of navigation the red buoys lie on the boat's starboard side while the green buoys lie on the portside. A commonly used memory device to remember this is Red Right Returning. This relates to the RED buoys lying to your RIGHT (starboard) side when RETURNING to the head of navigation. Always remember to pass safely between the red and green buoys in order to ensure safe water, deep enough to permit navigation.

Portside markers are green, can shaped, with an odd number and if lighted, with a green light. Starboard markers are red, conical shaped (generally referred to as "nun" buoys), with even numbers and red lighting.

Special Markers

Special marker buoys are colored white with orange marking. The shape of these buoys are either can or spar. The orange markings convey a meaning that all boaters should understand, and heed. The can buoys may be lighted with a white light.

Information
A buoy with this shape offers information to the mariner, such as directions to a harbor of refuge.

Danger
A buoy with this shape marks a danger. Be cautious while operating in this area.

Exclusion
This buoy marks an exclusion zone. Boats may not go beyond this buoy. Usually marks a swim area, or a dam.

Control
This symbol is generally used to indicate a speed zone, with the speed limit indicated within the circle.