MAISRC is a national leader in research, training, and community-focused outreach on AIS.
MAISRC is an interdisciplinary collegiate research center at the University of Minnesota in the College of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). MAISRC was created to develop research-based solutions to the aquatic invasive species (AIS) issues facing Minnesota and has grown into a respected partner and national leader in finding solutions for AIS. View a comprehensive timeline of the first 10 years of the Center.
Mission and Vision
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.
MAISRC's vision is a vibrant and durable research enterprise that advances the knowledge and builds the capacity that Minnesota needs in order to reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species on our cherished lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
Leadership
Nick Phelps, PhD, MS | 
Cori Mattke | 
Dan Larkin, PhD |
Center Advisory Board and MAISRC Technical Committee
MAISRC receives guidance from two groups: The Center Advisory Board is made up of representatives from governmental agencies, environmental/sporting organizations, lake associations, AIS managers and practitioners, and businesses. The purpose of the board is to provide strategic guidance on MAISRC initiatives and to contribute valuable stakeholder perspectives to MAISRC leadership. The MAISRC Technical Committee is made up of scientists from academic institutions and governmental agencies that advises MAISRC on scientific and technical activities, including MAISRC’s species and research needs prioritization.
Strategic Plan
In 2024, MAISRC established a new strategic plan for the center. One that builds on the successes of the MAISRC research community and defines new goals and strategies that will pilot our mission into the next decade – allowing MAISRC to remain agile in addressing AIS challenges and continuing to build on its legacy as a leader in AIS research and response.
The new strategic plan incorporates input from MAISRC’s multiple stakeholders including researchers, natural resource managers, policymakers, and community members and incorporates ideas and priorities that acknowledge the wide range of approaches and viewpoints on AIS – ensuring that solutions that are developed by MAISRC are both innovative and practical.
Read the strategic plan.
Funding
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 public donations.
