Invasive species are species that are not native to Minnesota and cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Minnesota waters are threatened by aquatic invasive species. It is illegal to transport any aquatic species like Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, spiny water flea or other prohibited invasive species. Within Polk County, Eurasian watermilfoil is already present in Union Lake, zebra mussels have recently been discovered in the Red River and Chinese Mystery Snails were confirmed in Lake Sarah in the summer of 2019.
Prevention of aquatic invasive species is the duty of all lake & river users. All boats motorized or non-motorized and boating related equipment can transport unwanted AIS from lake-to-lake. Please take the time to clean, drain and dry all water related equipment to aid in AIS prevention. We all have a responsibility to be good stewards of these invaluable water resources.