Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are plants or animals either in wetland areas or in the water that are not native to Minnesota and can spread exponentially, interfering with natural habitats, fisheries or recreation.

There are also native plants and animals that are not considered AIS and are beneficial to our waters. However, when they become a nuisance they may need to be managed.

For identification of aquatic plants, please see the DNR’s webpage: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/nr/plants/aquatic/index.html

For identification of aquatic animals, please see the DNR’s webpage: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/aquaticanimals/index.html

Northern Milfoil, Dallas Lake 2018. This is a beneficial native that looks much like an invasive, Eurasian Milfoil.

Lakes in Sherburne County listed as infested

Boat Inspections

The Briggs Chain of Lakes uses boat inspections organized by the Sherburne SWCD to contract with Water Guards, LLC to inspect boats arriving and leaving public landings for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). BLCA and TLID have paid for more inspection hours to help protect our lakes.

Not only do they inspect a boat, but they also gather other data, such as where a boat has been or where it’s going next.