Our Aquatic Invasive Species Program aims to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in the Rock River Basin by educating community members about aquatic invasive species and empowering them to take action. Our Aquatic Invasive Species program is currently focused on Dodge County and Rock County, WI.
Fill out a volunteer interest form if you are interested in volunteering with any of these projects. No experience is required – we will teach you what you need to know!
Learn more about our Aquatic Invasive Species Program here.
You can also contact our AIS coordinator Addie for more information.
Citizen Lake Monitoring Network (CLMN)
We train and support volunteer lake monitors, who measure water clarity and search for new populations of invasive species. CLMN is a partnership between WDNR, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Extension Lakes, and local organizations. Learn more about CLMN here.
Clean Boats Clean Waters
We offer support to lake groups who wish to staff boat landings with Clean Boats Clean Waters inspectors, who educate boaters about how to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Learn more about Clean Boats Clean Waters from WDNR and University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Extension Lakes.
Project RED (Riverine Early Detection)
We train volunteers how to search for invasive species while paddling or wading their favorite streams or rivers. Learn more about Project RED here.
Purple Loosestrife Biocontrol
We raise and release beetles that feed on purple loosestrife, giving native wetland plants a leg up in their competition against this widespread invasive plant. Our purple loosestrife biocontrol project is a collaboration with WDNR, Lake Koshkonong Wetlands Association, Jefferson County Land and Water Conservation Department, Lake Ripley Management District, and Neighborhood House.
Learn more about purple loosestrife biocontrol here.
Snapshot Day
This one-day, statewide volunteer event aims to teach community members about invasive species and take a “snapshot” of new and existing AIS populations. Think of it as an invasive species scavenger hunt!
Learn more about Snapshot Day through this StoryMap produced by River Alliance of Wisconsin.