Aquatic Invasive Species harm our local lakes, rivers, and other water bodies by out-competing native vegetation that provide food and habitat for fish and other wildlife. They also often form thick mats and colonies that inhibit recreation. Help prevent AIS with a few simple steps:
- If you own a watercraft:
- Carefully and thoroughly clean your watercraft every time you exit a waterbody. Some AIS are small and difficult to see, such as Zebra Mussels. To remove or kill them, spray with high-pressure water, and dry for at least 5 days.
- Drain all water-related equipment, including boat, ballast tanks, protable bait containers, as well as bilge, livewell, and baitwell. Remove and keep drain plugs out and draining devices open while transporting.
- Always dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. It is illegal to release bait into a waterbody or move aquatic animals from one waterbody to another. If you want to keep your bait, you must refill the bait container with bottled or tap water.
- Learn to identify AIS, and report any new infestations to a local DNR invasive species contact. AIS identification guides are available at City Hall, or online at the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center.
Here are some Aquatic Invasive Species to watch for:
Curly Leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus)
University of MN Extension
Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)
MN Department of Natural Resources
Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
MN Department of Natural Resources
Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus)
Leslie J Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut
Brittle Naiad (Najas minor)
MN Department of Natural Resources
Starry Stonewart (Nitellopsis obtuse) - Emerging Aquatic Invasive Species
MN Department of Natural Resources