Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are some of the largest threats to the health of our Northwoods lakes. Invasive species are plants, animals, or pathogens introduced to an area where they do not naturally occur. They are prolific, spreading rapidly due to a lack of natural predators and competitors. Invasive species can negatively impact fish and wildlife habitat and native species populations, reduce biodiversity, and alter entire ecosystems.

The Discovery Center is committed to helping stop the spread of AIS through partnerships with local and state agencies. Use the links below to learn more about our partnerships and what you can do to help. We appreciate your commitment in keeping our lakes beautiful for future generations!

 

GET EDUCATED

Wondering how you can help protect your lakes and rivers? Join our Woods and Waters Program team for a free training on Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) and learn what to look for, how to identify them, and what to do when you find them. You can also contact us to book a private training for your lake association, home owner's association, or other event.

Upcoming 2023 AIS Trainings:

May 24, 9-11 AM: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Identification Training at Boulder Junction, Register Here

June 07, 9-11 AM: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Identification Training at Pipke Park, Register Here

June 13, 9-11 AM: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Identification Training at Rest Lake, Register Here

June 27, 2-4 PM: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Identification Training at Rest Lake, Register Here

 

Interested in more ways to learn how you can help? Join us in these other Protect Our Waters series programs in 2023:

August 3, 12:30 - 4:30 PM: Managing Your Lake Shoreline Buffer, Register Here

August 15, 9 AM - 3 PM: Early Detection Rapid Response Monitoring, Register Here

August 18, 10 AM - 3 PM: Freshwater Mussel Monitoring, Register Here

August 19, 9 AM - 3 PM: Wisconsin Snapshot Day 2023, Register Here

 

 

REPORT A SIGHTING

Please contact us if you suspect an invasive species or want to know where they have been located within our region. We continually map areas to aid in effective, efficient, and proactive control.

GET HELP WITH IDENTIFICATION

We are always willing to identify any suspected AIS you may find. Bring samples in to the Discovery Center or email a photograph with the location where you found it, along with your contact information.

OTHER RESOURCES

For additional ways to help control the threat, see the Wisconsin DNR's webpage, or the additional resources below.

Click here to see if your lake of interest in Vilas County contains AIS.

Click here if you are an active volunteer with Discovery Center grants on the Manitowish Chain; or Harris, Hiawatha, Birch, Rainbow, Tamarack, the Turtle Chain, Pardee or Circle Lily Lakes in Winchester.