Wabasha County Aquatic Invasive Species Program

03/02/2026

02/09/2026

Find more Exotic Pet Surrender Events by scanning the QR Code attached to the flyer or visit https://www.jraar.org/

02/06/2026

Access to AIS Management 101 is now officially OPEN! Work through the course at your own pace, just be sure to complete everything by March 9 when the course closes. If you are still looking to register, visit https://z.umn.edu/AISmanagement101Reg

01/26/2026

This is your reminder to register for the upcoming AIS Management 101 course! This self-paced course is great for anyone wanting to learn more about how aquatic invasive species are managed. https://z.umn.edu/AISmanagement101Reg

01/13/2026

❄️ Embracing Winter Learning! ❄️

Our 4th grade students are heading out for an ice fishing experience, and we’re looking for help from our community. We are in need of ice fishing rods to support this hands-on learning opportunity.

If you’re able to donate, we would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for supporting experiential learning at W-K! 🎣

01/13/2026

🌲 Paid summer internships with the Minnesota DNR!
Looking for hands-on experience in the outdoors? Students, recent grads, and career changers can apply for 175+ positions across wildlife, forestry, water resources, and parks.
Start dates: May/June | Applications close: Feb 2
These internships aren't observation roles — you'll be working directly on real conservation projects, alongside DNR professionals.
Students: Apply here → http://mndnr.gov/careers/internships Parents, teachers, advisors: Share this with someone who would love this opportunity!

12/02/2025

08/21/2025

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2025/08/21/starry-stonewort-confirmed-four-minnesota-lakes

Recent search event led to new confirmations.

07/30/2025

A great reminder if you see an AIS Inspector the next time you are at the boat landing.

This comes up every year.

According to Minnesota Statute §84D.105, which governs the Watercraft Inspection Program:
- Inspectors are authorized to visually and tactilely inspect water- related equipment and compartments that may hold water.
- If a person refuses inspection, the inspector can deny launch of the watercraft.
- Inspectors may also require decontamination before launching or leaving an access site.

This means:
You are legally obligated to allow a watercraft inspector to inspect your equipment if requested. Refusal can result in being barred from launching your boat.

This requirement is spelled out in Mn Statute 84.D.105. This is also clearly explained on page 22 of the 2025 Minnesota Boating Guide, and page 18 of the 2025 Minnesota Fishing Regulations.

Itasca SWCD AIS watercraft inspectors are here to educate and help you inspect your equipment. Reporting a violation to a conservation officer for enforcement is always the last option available to the inspectors. They much prefer helping you understand the laws and best practices so that we can stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.

06/20/2025

Awesome job inspectors!

In Minnesota, 730 trained Watercraft Inspectors are at public water accesses to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species through boater education, inspections and decontaminations. This year as of June 5, watercraft inspectors have already completed 92,264 inspections, making Minnesota’s one of the largest watercraft inspection programs in the nation!

Did you know? Boaters can find FREE decontamination service locations here: mndnr.gov/decon. The staff follow specific protocols, using hot water (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds) to kill aquatic invasive species and, if necessary, using a high-pressure water to remove attached aquatic invasive species.

Visit our Watercraft Inspection Program page for more information: dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/watercraft_inspect/