Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Invasive Species & Native Habitat

Keep unwanted species from changing your lake's ecology, clarity, and recreation. Learn how they spread, what to watch for, and how to stop them.

What Are AIS—and Why They Matter

Aquatic invasive species are plants, animals, or microbes introduced outside their native range. They can:

Ecological Impacts
  • Out-compete native species
  • Alter food webs
  • Change water clarity
Economic Impacts
  • Clog equipment
  • Damage shorelines
  • Increase management costs

How AIS Spread (Common Pathways)

  • Boats & Trailers

    Water in bilges/livewells, plants on bunks/axles, mussels in crevices.

  • Gear & Toys

    Anchors, ropes, waders, nets, swimming floats.

  • Bait

    Unused minnows and water released into the lake.

  • Aquariums & Water Gardens

    Dumped plants/animals that survive outdoors.

Priority Species and Plain‑Language Clues

Descriptions are for awareness—not formal ID.

What to look for: Tiny, sharp‑edged shells; cluster in masses; scratchy feel on rocks/docks.

Impact: Can make water very clear while fueling nuisance algae on bottoms.

What to look for: Dense surface mats, feathery leaves along the stem.

Impact: Fragments easily and spreads by pieces.

What to look for: Early‑season growth; crinkled leaves.

Impact: Mid‑summer die‑off can release nutrients and reduce clarity.

What to look for: Bright‑green, brittle algae that forms dense, crunchy mats; star‑shaped bulbils in sediments.

Impact: Can form thick mats that impede recreation.

What to look for: Gelatinous clumps on fishing lines; long, barbed tail spine.

Impact: Can disrupt zooplankton communities.

Prevention—Your 5‑Minute Routine (Every Launch & Leave)

CLEAN

Remove all plants, animals, and mud from boat, trailer, and gear.

DRAIN

Empty bilge, livewell, ballast, motor, and bait buckets away from the ramp.

DRY

Allow 5–7 days of dry time when possible.

TRASH

Never release bait or water into the lake.

CHECK

Hidden spots: bunks, transom tie‑downs, anchor lockers, carpeted bunks, intake screens.

Field Decontamination (When Rapid Turnaround Is Needed)

  • Hot‑Water Rinse

    Spray 140°F (60°C) water on hulls, trailers, livewells, and gear. A slower, safer option is 120–130°F (49–54°C) with longer contact.

  • Contact Time

    Keep surfaces hot/wet for at least 10 seconds; longer for thick mats/crevices.

  • Gear Soak

    Submerge nets/ropes in hot, soapy water; rinse and dry completely.

  • Freeze Option

    For small gear, 24 hours below 14°F (-10°C) helps kill many hitchhikers.

Shoreline & Home Practices

  • Compost or bag removed plants—don't dump in ditches or wetlands.
  • Keep lifts, docks, and toys dry for 21+ days before moving to a new waterbody.
  • Rinse canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and swim floats—they move AIS too.

Monitoring—Simple Things Volunteers Can Do

Monthly Shoreline Sweep

Feel rocks/docks for new scratchy shells; look for mats in calm bays.

Boat‑Ramp Checks

After busy weekends, inspect the first 30–50 ft on either side of ramps/lanes.

Plant Watch

Note any sudden, dense surface mats or unusual early‑season growth.

Clarity & Habitat Notes

Sudden extra‑clear water plus bottom algae may hint at mussels.

Rapid Response—If You Suspect a New AIS

  1. Record date/time, exact location, and conditions; collect a small sample only if allowed.
  2. Photograph & describe: size, color, texture, where attached/floating (avoid moving it around).
  3. Report to your lake group and the appropriate local or state contact for verification.
  4. Limit spread: Avoid moving boats/gear from the area until you receive guidance.

Common Myths—And Facts

Myth

"I only paddle; I can't spread AIS."

Fact

Kayaks and SUPs move fragments and small mussels—clean and drain them too.

Myth

"Clearer water means healthier."

Fact

Mussels can clear water while harming native food webs.

Myth

"One plant on the trailer is no big deal."

Fact

Many species spread by tiny fragments—every piece matters.

Community Playbook

  • Post simple CLEAN–DRAIN–DRY reminders at access points.
  • Offer loaner tools: plant rakes, boot brushes, and hot‑water wash access where possible.
  • Coordinate inspection shifts on peak days; log observations in a shared sheet.
  • Pair rapid reporting with early‑season surveys in high‑risk areas (ramps, marinas, downwind coves).

Next Steps

Now that you understand the basics of AIS, explore:

Remember: CLEAN–DRAIN–DRY

  1. CLEAN all visible material
  2. DRAIN all water away from ramp
  3. DRY for 5-7 days if possible
  4. TRASH unused bait
  5. CHECK hidden spots

Related Topics

Key Takeaways

  • Most introductions happen at the boat ramp
  • CLEAN–DRAIN–DRY works for all watercraft, including kayaks and SUPs
  • Even small fragments can establish new populations
  • Early detection is critical for effective response
  • Community coordination multiplies prevention efforts

Watch For

  • Zebra/Quagga Mussels: Sharp shells in clusters
  • Eurasian Watermilfoil: Feathery surface mats
  • Curly-Leaf Pondweed: Early growth, crinkled leaves
  • Starry Stonewort: Bright green, crunchy mats
  • Spiny Water Flea: Gelatinous clumps on lines

Suspect an AIS?

Report it immediately to your lake association or local natural resources agency.

Report Now