Invasive Species in Minnesota & Wisconsin Lakes
23 invasive species documented across 1,692 lakes. Check any lake before launching your boat to know what invasives are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lakes have invasive species?
1,692 of 3,770 monitored lakes in Minnesota and Wisconsin 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?
Both Minnesota and Wisconsin require boaters to remove all aquatic plants, drain water from boats and equipment, and dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Wisconsin requires a 5-day drying period or decontamination between waterbodies. Minnesota requires draining all water before transport.
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.