Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species(AIS) Program

Wisconsin’s aquatic invasive species program focuses on preventing the introduction of new invasive species to Wisconsin, preventing the spread of invasives that are already in the state, and controlling established populations when possible. Along with the aquatic plant management program and the various laws and contacts for dealing with aquatic invasive plants, the aquatic invasives program has the tools in place to minimize new introductions of nusciance species.

Zebra mussels and Eurasian water-milfoil are increasing becoming abundant in our waters.
DNR Photo

See What You Can Do to Stop the Invaders!

The program is composed of five main components:

1. Watercraft Inspection

The Watercraft Inspection Program involves dissemination of information to anglers and recreational boaters to make them aware of what invasive species look like and what precautions they should take to avoid spreading them. It also involves visual inspection of boats to make sure they are "clean" and demonstration to the public of how to take the proper steps to clean their boats, trailers, and boating equipment. Watercraft inspectors also install signs at boat landings informing boaters of infestation status, state law, and steps to prevent spreading invasives.

2. Monitoring

The Volunteer Lake Monitoring effort involves monitoring for aquatic invasive species, including zebra mussels, Eurasian water milfoil, spiny waterfleas, and rusty crayfish. For zebra mussels, it involves collecting samples for veliger (larval zebra mussel) analyses and deployment of substrate samplers. There are also specific sampling procedures for spiny waterfleas and rusty crayfish. For Eurasian water milfoil, it involves inspection of watercraft for invasive plants or visual shoreline inspections.

3. Information and Education

In close cooperation with UW Extension Environmental Resources Ctr. and UW Sea Grant Institute , education efforts focus on working with resource professionals and citizens statewide to teach boaters, anglers, and other water users the steps to take to prevent transporting aquatic invasives to new waters. Efforts also involve addressing other potential mechanisms of introduction, including aquarium pet release and water gardening. Many educational tools are used to reach the public - brochures and publications, watch cards and wild cards, public service announcements and displays at parks, sport shows, convention and symposiums. Click here to see a list of available publications [PDF 730KB].

4. Purple Loosestrife Biological Control

A citizen-based project that emphasizes using two safe, purple loosestrife foliage-feeding beetle species, in combination with traditional methods, for controlling this invasive plant. Citizens of all ages make up the backbone of this cooperative program by rearing and releasing these insects in their local wetlands - and learning about these precious places in the process. For more information, please contact:
Brock Woods
UWEX/DNR Purple Loosestrife Bio-control Coordinator
(608)-221-6349
Brock.Woods@ces.uwex.edu

5. Clean Boats, Clean Waters Program

The Clean Boats, Clean Waters Program [Exit DNR] Sponsored by the DNR, UW Extension, and the Wisconsin Association of Lakes, offers training to volunteers on how to organize a watercraft inspection program, how to inspect boats and equipment, and how to interact with the public. Volunteers are also encouraged to help monitor for aquatic invasives. Workshops are open to adults and youth; adult groups are encouraged to work with local youth partners. For details, please contact: Erin Henegar, Aquatic Invasive Species Volunteer Coordinator, UW Extension-Lakes Program
(715) 346-4978
erin.henegar@uwsp.edu

Aquatic Invasives Program Contacts

Last Revised: Friday April 11 2008