The Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) launched the Research Partnership Awards in 2021 to recognize people, groups, and organizations who have gone above and beyond to contribute to MAISRC's mission: advancing aquatic invasive species (AIS) knowledge, and inspiring action to protect and restore Minnesota’s cherished lakes, rivers, and wetlands. Nominations for the award are solicited from MAISRC research teams and partner program staff, with final selections made by MAISRC leadership. The three categories are: GROUP/ORGANIZATION, MANAGER/AGENCY, and INDIVIDUAL. Awards are announced each year in conjunction with the AIS Research and Management Showcase.
Three individuals/organizations have been announced as the recipients of the 2026 Research Partnership Awards. The recent advances using research to solve real-time threats to Minnesota lakes and rivers would not be possible without these champions:
INDIVIDUAL: Josh Knopik
Josh Knopik is an aquatic ecologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Ecological and Water Resources. He earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from Bemidji State University and a master’s degree in water resources science from the University of Minnesota. Over his 12 years with the DNR, his work has included mapping and assessing aquatic vegetation, developing mobile field applications and custom GIS tools, and assessing lake health through nongame fish monitoring. He also coordinates the Collaborative State-Tribal Wild Rice Monitoring Program, bringing partners together to advance monitoring, share knowledge, and support wild rice conservation across Minnesota. Josh’s work is rooted in a love of Minnesota’s lakes and a desire to help people better understand and care for the aquatic ecosystems around them. Outside of work, Josh is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys traveling and seeking new adventures with his wife and two children.
MANAGER/AGENCY: Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District
Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is contracted by Lake County to coordinate the Lake County AIS Prevention Program. Their mission is to support the people of Lake County in protecting and conserving the land and waters through professional consultation, education, and resources. The Lake County SWCD AIS staff are excited by the work of MAISRC and try to participate or contribute whenever possible. Highlights include assisting with the research project: effective rusty crayfish removals to protect wild rice, hosting a local Starry Trek event site every year since 2017, and contributing SWCD survey data to PI Charter and the Spiny Surveillance effort.
GROUP/ORGANIZATION: Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations
Formed in 1988, the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations (HCCOLA) is a leader in protecting Hubbard County lakes and rivers. Their mission is to protect and enhance the quality of our lakes and rivers, preserve the economic, recreational and natural environmental values of their shorelands and promote the responsible use of waters and related habitats. Hubbard County COLA’s mission enhances, promotes and protects the interests of lakeshore property owners, lake associations, local government, the general public and future generations. HCCOLA now has 32 lake associations representing 44 lakes with over 2,775 lake association members.