Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
What Is AIS?
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are water-dwelling organisms that are not native to Minnesota. The impact of AIS can vary with some causing damage to ecosystems and others producing human or economic harm.
The Gull Lake Chain was added to the DNR Infested Waters list when zebra mussels were found. They’ve since removed plankton from the water which native species rely on, they have created clearer water which contributes to algae blooms and increased growth of submerged aquatic vegetation, they have clogged water intake pipelines and screens, and they have cut swimmers with their sharp shells.
What We Do
We’re very concerned about the introduction of starry stonewort and Eurasian watermilfoil due to its presence in nearby lakes. Here’s a list of what we’re doing about it:
- Pay for AIS inspections at the public boat launches.
- Purchased a decontamination unit which is located at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gull Lake Recreation Area and is used to spray boats and trailers with AIS on them.
- Educate members on how to prevent the spread of AIS.
- Regularly survey all 30 boat access & other locations for AIS.
- Educate resort owners and staff about AIS prevention at their boat accesses.
- Manage the I-LIDS units at the Nisswa and Gull Narrows public accesses which provide unmanned AIS inspections.
What You Can Do
- View the Shoreland Owner Training for AIS Prevention video from the Clean Drain Dry Initiative.
- Read our quarterly newsmagazine for updates on AIS activities on the Gull Lake Chain.