Aquatic invasive species

Aquatic invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that, when introduced into a new habitat, negatively affect the aquatic ecosystem. Aquatic invasive species disrupt the health of lakes and rivers, but also pose threats to natural, cultural, industrial, and recreational resources and are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss. Aquatic invasive species often thrive in their new environment and out-compete native plants and animals. The consequences of an aquatic invasive species infestation can include: a reduction of native plants and animals invertebrates and game fish; damage to watercraft engines and water related equipment; an increase in operating costs of power plants, water plants, dam maintenance, and industrial processes. Aquatic invasive species can also decrease property values and can pose a threat to public health.  

Visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Aquatic Invasive Species page for more information. 

Aquatic invasive species found in Carver County

• Zebra Mussel
• Eurasian Water Milfoil
• Curly Leaf Pondweed
• Flowering Rush
• Common Carp
• Reed Canary Grass
• Purple Loosestrife
• Brittle Naiad

Map of infestations 

View the Carver County Aquatic Invasive Species infestation map to view which lakes and rivers have aquatic invasive species. 

Watercraft inspection program

The Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Program seeks to prevent the introduction of new invasive species into Carver County waters and to prevent the spread of established invasive species between waters. This is done through a combination of public education, watercraft inspections, and watercraft decontamination services. Inspections and public education both happen on site at public water accesses in the county.

The watercraft inspection program is supported by both public and private funding sources. The program can look different each year. This is because knowledge of aquatic invasive species and rapid response techniques are constantly growing, and each year brings budget changes.

Questions on the program, strategies, or specific lakes can be directed to Drew Dickhart at adickhart@carvercountymn.gov, 952-361-1871.

Decontamination program 

Carver County owns and operates a decontamination unit. This unit is typically located at the public access on the northeast side of Lake Waconia. Please check back for information on the 2021 decontamination program. 

Early detection and monitoring 

Early detection monitoring and rapid response are an important part of the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention and Management Plan. Detecting new invasions early and having response plans allow us to eradicate new aquatic invasive species infestations before they become established.

Staff use the strategies below to detect invasions early.

• Zebra mussel sample plates
• Plankton tows for zebra mussel larvae and spiny water fleas
• E-DNA analyses to detect for zebra mussel genetic material
• Shoreline and snorkel surveys
• Aquatic vegetation surveys

Local volunteers also conduct passive surveys and report any new aquatic invasive species found.

Monitoring map

•  Click the double arrows in the top left corner of the map to expand/collapse the legend.
•  Select a species to display the monitoring points where it was found.
•  Click on the points on the map for more information about what was found at that location. 

*NOTE – Coontail is included. It is native to Minnesota but can sometimes be a nuisance plant.

Rapid response plans 

Rapid response plans prepare staff to take action in the event of an aquatic invasive species introduction. Eradication is usually the goal of a rapid response but is not always feasible, especially in aquatic ecosystems. Staff use rapid response plans based on recommendations by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic Plan

The five-year Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic Plan outlines the current status of the aquatic invasive species program, future direction, and framework for implementing new and ongoing actions strategies. During the five year timeframe, additional priorities, goals, and action steps will be identified as part of an ongoing mission to successfully prevent and control invasive species, prevent habitat loss, water quality degradation, and other impacts associated with aquatic invasive species and to ensure access to lands, lakes, and rivers in Carver County.

Watercraft inspection report 

The 2020 Watercraft inspections report contains general inspection information and inspection statistics for lakes that were part of the program in 2020.