Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that live primarily in water and thrive in their new environment, often out-competing native species. Well known AIS include: zebra mussels, curlyleaf pondweed, Eurasion watermilfoil, spiny waterflea, sea lamprey, and Asian carp. AIS management has quickly become one of the County's biggest challenges. Although the scenario varies by lake and by species, it is clear that the easiest and most cost effective method is prevention.

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When Crow Wing County was identifying the priorities for the 2013 to 2023 Water Plan, a survey was sent to all riparian landowners in the County as well as to various stakeholder groups and to the general public (via a press release and participation at the County Fair). The results of that survey indicated that Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) was the top surface water priority. As the survey indicates, Crow Wing County has seen an ever-increasing demand from citizens and lake associations to become an active participant in the fight against AIS.

The County's stated goal with respect to AIS in the 2013 to 2023 Water Plan is: To provide leadership in the fight against Aquatic Invasive Species by developing proactive solutions aimed at educating and empowering local citizens.

Under this goal are four primary objectives:

1. Lake Association Coordination
2. Watercraft Inspection
3. Lake Improvement District (LID) Management
4. Education and Outreach

AIS Decontamination

Decontamination stations are available to boaters free of charge, with priority given to boaters who have been referred for decontamination by watercraft inspectors or law enforcement present on area landings. For more information about Brainerd Lakes Area Decontamination Stations, see the resources:

• 2019 AIS Decontamination Locations Opens a New Window. 
• Crosslake Decon Location Map (PDF)
• Decontamination Station Locations Map (PDF)Opens a New Window. 

Decontamination Stations

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Starry Trek Event (Starry Stonewort)

For the first time, Crow Wing County is hosting “Starry Trek” Saturday August 17, 2019 starting at 8 am to 12 pm. Come join us in a statewide search for the newest aquatic invasive species Starry Stonewort. Starry Stonewort is an invasive algae that was first found in Lake Koronis in 2015 and has since spread to fourteen Minnesota lakes. Crow Wing County is excited to host a local rendezvous location this year and further our AIS education to protect our beautiful lakes. Participants who wish to volunteer must register online at www.StarryTrek.org.

Additional Information

• CWC AIS Infested Waters Map (PDF)
• CWC AIS Infested Waters List (PDF) Opens a New Window. 
• Zebra Mussel Flyer (PDF)
• Milfoil Flyer (PDF)
• New AIS Poster (PDF)
• Lake Association Feedback Meeting Presentation 09/21/17 (PDF)

Is your lake infested? 

Check out the interactive map Opens a New Window.  for additional information.

More information on these objectives can be found in the 2013 to 2023 Crow Wing County Water Plan (PDF)

2019 AIS Prevention Plan approved on 3/12/2019

 Opens a New Window. AIS Plan Public Comments and County Responses (PDF)

2019 AIS Plan (PDF)