Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non‑native plants, animals and organisms. They can spread quickly and harm lakes, rivers, wetlands, recreation and local economies. Preventing the spread of AIS helps protect water resources for drinking water, outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat and future generations.

Dakota County works with residents, local partners and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to prevent the introduction and spread of AIS. We do this through education, watercraft inspections, early detection and coordinated local efforts.​

What ar​e aquatic invasive species?

Aquatic invasive species are plants and animals that are introduced outside their natural range. Because they did not evolve in local ecosystems, they can grow and spread quickly, out‑compete native species and disrupt natural balance.

Examples of aquatic invasive species found in Dakota County waters include:

• Zebra mussels 
  
• Curlyleaf pondweed 
• Eurasia​n watermilfoil
• Flowering rush 
• Purple loosestrife 
• Invasive carp 

AIS often spread unintentionally by hitchhiking on boats, trailers, fishing gear and other equipment.

Why AIS m​​atter in Dakota County

Aquatic invasive species can have long‑lasting impacts on local waters and communities. They can:

• Reduce water quality and native plants and wildlife
• Interfere with swimming, boating and fishing
• Damage docks, boats and water infrastructure
• Increase long‑term management costs for lakes and taxpayers

Dakota County has many connected and heavily used lakes and rivers. Without prevention, invasive species can spread quickly from one water body to another.​

Dakota County's AIS prevention efforts

Dakota County receives funding through the State of Minnesota's AIS Prevention Aid program. These funds support prevention activities identified in the county's Dakota County Aquatic Invasive Species Plan.

The plan outlines strategies and guides local actions through 2030​ to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species within the county and greater Minnesota.

Pledge to protect Minne​​sota waters

We can all do our part to help stop the spread of harmful aquatic invasive species. Take the M​innesota DNR's Pledge to Protect Minnesota Waters.​

County AIS efforts focus on:

• Education and outreach to residents, boaters and anglers
• Watercraft inspections and decontamination at public water access sites
• Early detection and monitoring to identify new infestations
• Partnerships with cities, watershed organizations, and lake associations

These efforts work together to reduce the risk of new infestations and protect existing water resources.

​What you can​​ do

Did you know? Most new AIS infestations are linked to accidental transport by recreational water users. Everyone who lives, works or recreates near water can help prevent the spread of AIS.

Clean, drain, ​​​dispose

Before leaving any lake, river, or wetland:

1. Clean all visible aquatic plants, animals and mud from boats, trailers and equipment.
2. Drain all water from watercraft, including motors, livewells, bilges and ballast tanks.
3. Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash — never release bait, aquarium species or plants into the water.

Drain plugs must be removed and left out during transport.

Education is critical to prevent new infestations and protect local waters for future generations. Find and request education and outreach resources from the Minnesota DNR. and learn more through free online webinars. Take the Minnesota DNR's pled​ge to protect Minnesota waters​. 

Watercraft inspections are an important prevention tool.

At staffed public water access sites, trained inspectors:

• Inspect boats, trailers, and equipment for invasive species
• Remove aquatic plants or animals if found
• Share information about AIS laws and prevention

Inspections are quick, free and required by law at staffed access sites. If high‑risk invasive species are found, decontamination may be required before launching or leaving the site.

Learn more about boat inspections and decontamination.​

Early de​​tection and reporting

Finding invasive species early can limit their spread and reduce long‑term impacts.

To report suspected aquatic invasive species, note the exact location, take a photo and contact a Minnesota DNR AIS specialist.​

Get involved

Community involvement strengthens AIS prevention and early detection efforts. Opportunities include:

• Participating in volunteer AIS monitoring programs
• Attending AIS identification and reporting trainings
• Exploring seasonal watercraft inspector positions

These efforts help expand local capacity to protect Dakota County waters.​

Additional resources

• Dakota County AIS Grant Program
• Minnesota DNR - Invasive Aquatic Plant Management Grant Program
• Minnesota DNR – Aquatic Invasive Species information
• Minnesota DNR – AIS Laws and Regulations
• Minnesota DNR Infested Waters List
• AIS Explorer (lake‑level risk and planning tool)
• Clean, Drain, Dispose guidance
• AIS identification and reporting tools
• Minnesota Aquatic Inv​asive Species Research Center (MAISRC)

​Contact information

For questions about aquatic invasive species, prevention efforts, inspections, grants or volunteer opportunities:

Dakota County Water Resources
Phone: 952-891-7000
Email: environ@co.dakota.mn.us