The Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center is dedicated to fighting the spread and impact of aquatic invasive species on Minnesota’s beloved lakes and rivers.
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) began arriving in Minnesota in the 1800s, but the current rate of invasion is increasing. Although aquatic invasive species may seem unstoppable, there is hope.
With a solid foundation of research below its feet and exciting new projects underway, MAISRC is well-positioned to build on past success and inform real-world solutions in the coming years. Thanks to MAISRC’s research, invasive species can be found earlier, responses to new infestations can be improved, and new tools have been developed to control established populations. For example, informed by MAISRC research, the first time eradication is an achievable goal for an AIS in Minnesota, and managers are implementing a large, coordinated effort against non-native Phragmites.
Who We Are
Created in 2012 through funds from the Minnesota legislature, MAISRC has grown into a respected partner and national leader in the fight against aquatic invasive species. MAISRC is a multidisciplinary team that plays a central role for AIS research in Minnesota.
Mission
MAISRC's mission is to develop research-based solutions that can reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species in Minnesota by preventing spread, controlling populations, and managing ecosystems; and to advance knowledge to inspire action by others. Learn more about MAISRC's current strategic planning process.
Recent News
- New project underway to stop invasive carp in Minnesota's waterways thanks to $12M investment, MAISRC mentioned, (Kare 11)
- Starry stonewort spreads concern in Minnesota lake country, AIS Detectors and Starry Trek mentioned, (KAXE/KBXE)
- On the water front: invasive lake species, AIS Detectors, Gretchen Hansen, Donn Branstrator, Valerie Brady, Nick Phelps interviewed, (UMN News)
Explore our recent work in the field
Meeting our mission to develop research-based solutions to reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species means that our teams conduct research throughout the entire state. Whether it’s studying impacts, gathering samples, trialing new management approaches, or collaborating with partners to find solutions to AIS problems, if there’s a waterbody threatened by AIS in Minnesota, there’s a good chance one of our teams has been there. Explore this map for an overview of all of our field work or scroll down for maps specific to each research category.
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| Funding for MAISRC is provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR); the State of Minnesota, and private donations. |