Invasive Species by Lake
23 invasive species documented across 1,581 lakes. Check any lake before launching your boat to know what invasives are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lakes have invasive species?
1,581 of the 38,731 lakes in this index have at least one documented invasive species. The most common are Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, and curly-leaf pondweed.
What should I do before launching my boat?
Every state in our coverage requires clean-drain-dry practices: remove all aquatic plants, drain water from boats and equipment, and dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Some states add specifics — Wisconsin requires a 5-day drying period or decontamination between waterbodies, and Minnesota requires draining all water before transport. Check your state DNR or fish and wildlife agency for exact rules.
Can invasive species be removed from a lake?
Some invasive species can be managed but rarely fully eradicated. Mechanical harvesting, herbicide treatment, and biological controls can reduce populations of plants like Eurasian watermilfoil. Zebra mussels and spiny waterfleas have no proven removal method once established.