Research Partnership Awards

Jim is semi-retired but stays very involved volunteering as a Certified AIS Detector and Stearns County Starry Trek coordinator. In fact, at the very first Starry Trek in 2017, Jim discovered starry stonewort at the Grand Lake access. That early detection has been key to successfully managing and containing it for the past eight years. Since then, Jim has been a tireless supporter of AIS detection and management, shoreline restoration, and stormwater mitigation.

Justin Townsend has spent nearly two decades building both expertise and passion for tackling invasive species - from pulling Eurasian watermilfoil by hand and experimenting with weevils, to more recently leading on tools like eDNA detection. Along the way, he’s shown that real progress comes from collaboration and working with partners across the state. As the AIS Coordinator for Ramsey County, Justin is constantly finding new ways to work with others to reduce the spread and impact of invasive species. He’s also been a strong supporter of MAISRC, helping shape key tools like AIS Explorer and eDNA testing, serving on our advisory board, supporting AIS Detectors, and partnering on research projects.

1854 Treaty Authority is an inter-tribal natural resource management organization that safeguards and carries out the off-reservation hunting, fishing, and gathering rights of the Grand Portage and Bois Forte bands in the lands ceded under the Treaty of La Pointe of 1854. Their knowledge and guidance have strengthened MAISRC research: helping identify study sites, evaluate methods, and providing critical insight, such as advancing research on the impacts of rusty crayfish on wild rice. Beyond their work in the field, 1854’s active engagement on MAISRC’s Technical Committee and Research Needs Assessment teams has shaped research priorities that benefit AIS and natural resource managers across the state. Their commitment to collaboration truly embodies the spirit of this award.