Northwest Minnesota Regional Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pilot
Aquatic invasive species are a threat to the ecology and the recreational and economic viability of Minnesota’s water resources. When an invasion is confined to a distinct lake or wetland, local government units will implement localized plans to address invasions. However, when a water body crosses jurisdictions, such as with river systems, to be effective a more coordinated, regional approach is necessary that is more attuned with the natural pathways for invasive species. The Red River Basin Commission is using this appropriation to pilot an effort to develop processes for addressing invasive species at a watershed scale using partnerships between local government units working collectively rather than individually. The pilot is intended to create a model for invasive species prevention that can be applied in other parts of the state.
$219,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Red River Basin Commission to develop aquatic invasive species prevention strategies on a watershed scale and develop materials to sustain watershed scale decision-making and implementation. This initiative must be coordinated with the Department of Natural Resources and outdoor heritage fund activities for locally based invasive species control. Specific reporting and analysis of outcomes and findings of this alternative approach must be provided to enable duplication in other regions of the state.
Click on Work Plan under Project Details.
Click on Work Plan under Project Details.