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Invasive Species
How do aquatic invasive species (AIS) get introduced?
Aquatic invasive species don’t usually enter a waterbody on their own, they are transported with the help of humans. In some cases, it only takes one individual organism or plant, such as a small plant fragment, to result in an infestation. An infestation can be devastating for lake / river recreation and aquatic life and can cost shore property owners a lot of money to manage AIS to maintain use of the lake or river.
Be on the lookout for these aquatic species!
Invasive fish, such as carp and goldfish can wreak havoc in lakes and ponds. Their feeding behavior disrupts shallow rooted plants, muddying the water, and also releasing phosphorous bound in the sediment. Less clear water and additional phosphorous can prevent sunlight from reaching plants and can lead to additional algal blooms. Aquatic plants provide important habitat for native fish and help sustain water clarity by holding sediments in place. Learn more about invasive fish.
Zebra mussels are another invasive species threatening Minnesota waters. They encrust equipment, such as boat motors and hulls, which reduces performance and efficiency and is costly to clean and repair. Swimmers and pets can cut their feet on zebra mussels attached to rocks, docks, swim rafts and ladders. Additionally, zebra mussels filter tiny food particles out of the water, which can reduce available food for larval fish and other animals and can increase aquatic plant growth. Learn more about zebra mussels.
It's not just animals that can be invasive; plants can also cause problems within water bodies. Often invasive aquatic plant species will out compete native vegetation and contribute to reductions in water quality, recreation opportunities, and harm aquatic ecosystems. View more information on invasive aquatic plants.
Want to learn more about aquatic invasive species threatening Minnesota waters. Visit the DNR's website on invasive species.
If you see any of these species in City ponds or lakes, please report the sighting to the City's Environmental Specialist by email or calling 763-253-4299.
Removing a watercraft from a lake or river? Follow these AIS prevention steps:
- Clean off any plants, animals and mud from your prop, boat, trailer, and equipment. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommends boaters to spray boats and trailers with high-pressure water. If available, rinse boats and trailers with hot water (120 degrees for 2 minutes, or 140 degrees for 10 seconds).
- Drain the motor, bilge, live well, ballast tanks, and other water-containing devices. This includes draining water out of canoes and kayaks.
- Dry everything for a minimum of five days or towel dry to make sure organisms can’t survive.
- Dispose of unwanted bait in a designated area or trash, not in the water. Drain bait bucket water on vegetation or in designated can or area, not hard surfaces. Run boat motor and personal watercraft engine out of the water for a few seconds to discharge water before leaving a water access.
If you have been on a lake for 24 hours or more, go to a decontamination station and get your boat decontaminated before entering another lake. Three Rivers Park District and the Minnesota DNR have hot water decontaminations stations available in Hennepin County. Find a Three Rivers Park District station or a Minnesota DNR station.
Take the Pledge to Protect Minnesota Waters!
Every angler, boater, and water recreationist play a vital role in stopping the spread of AIS. Cleaning watercraft and equipment after use in a water body and following AIS laws helps protect waters and spares anglers and boaters from citations.