Early Detection & Monitoring for AIS

Invasive Species & Native Habitat

Help your lake catch problems early—before they spread or get expensive. Simple volunteer monitoring gives your community an early-warning system.

Why Early Detection Matters

Lower Cost

Small infestations are far easier and cheaper to control

Faster Decisions

Clear observations speed up verification and response

Better Prevention

Know where hitchhikers appear to improve outreach

High-Risk Places to Watch

  • Access Points

    Boat launches, marinas, and the first 50–100 ft of shoreline nearby

  • Downwind Coves & Quiet Bays

    Fragments and scums collect in these protected areas

  • Hard Substrates

    Rocks, docks, and lifts where mussels can attach

  • Early-Warming Shallows

    Places where plants green up first in spring

What to Look For (Plain-Language Clues)

  • New dense plant mats near the surface; fragments that regrow after cutting
  • Scratchy shells on rocks/docks (zebra/quagga mussels); sharp to the touch, cluster in stacks
  • Bright-green, brittle clumps that feel crunchy (e.g., starry stonewort); unusual early-season growth
  • Gel clumps on fishing lines with long tail spines (spiny water flea)
  • Sudden extra-clear water paired with bottom algae growth (possible mussel effects)

Simple Volunteer Methods (Low-Cost)

Frequency: Monthly in open-water season

  • Walk a fixed route (e.g., 100–200 ft on each side of the ramp)
  • Feel undersides/edges of rocks, dock posts, and ladders for scratchy shells
  • Use a hand rake to pull up plant samples from consistent points
  • Note any fragments or unusual growth

Purpose: Littoral zone checks

  • Tie a rope to a metal rake; toss to the same GPS points or landmarks each time
  • Three tosses per point; record depth and the dominant plant or "no plants"
  • Keep a small comparison card of common natives vs. invaders

Purpose: Detect mussels early

  • Suspend rough tiles or plates from a dock 1–3 ft below the surface
  • Check monthly for tiny stripy shells
  • Log presence/absence and counts

Purpose: Survey quiet bays

  • Paddle a set shoreline segment
  • Log mats, unusual colors, or floating fragments
  • Note wind direction and water conditions

Good Data Habits

  • Be consistent: Same locations, methods, and frequency
  • Write it down: Date, time, who surveyed, weather, water level, wind
  • Describe clearly: Size/extent, color/texture, substrate
  • Keep samples minimal: Only collect if allowed; don't spread fragments

What to Do If You Suspect a New AIS

  1. Record details: date/time, precise location (ramp name, GPS or landmark), water depth, conditions
  2. Describe clearly in words: size, color, texture, attachment; include counts or area estimates
  3. Isolate the site: Avoid moving boats/gear from the area until you receive guidance
  4. Report promptly: Send observations to your lake group and appropriate local/state contacts
  5. Follow instructions: Share additional info or samples only as requested

Avoiding False Alarms

  • Many natives have look-alikes; stick to neutral descriptions rather than firm IDs unless trained
  • Distinguish algae films from paint-like cyanobacteria scums and plant fragments from attached growth
  • When uncertain, note "possible" and provide location + conditions

Organizing a Volunteer Watch

  • Choose priority sites (ramps, marinas, busy beaches, downwind coves)
  • Create a shared schedule (e.g., first Saturday monthly, May–September)
  • Use a one-page field sheet: locations, methods, and quick checkboxes
  • Track observations in a shared spreadsheet so patterns emerge year to year

Ethics & Safety

  • Don't trespass; obtain permissions for docks and private access
  • Wear PFDs when boating; work in pairs in remote areas
  • Clean, drain, and dry your own gear after each survey

Quick Reference (Field Sheet Prompts)

Site: Launch / Marina / Cove / Bay / Other
Date/Time: __________
Weather/Wind: __________
Method: Shore sweep / Rake toss / Sampler check / Kayak transect
Findings: Species or description; extent; substrate; depth
Action: Reported? Y/N Contacted who? __________
Notes: ______________________________

Quick Start

  1. Pick 2-3 priority sites
  2. Choose a monthly schedule
  3. Create a simple field sheet
  4. Walk, rake, or paddle consistently
  5. Log and share observations

Related Topics

Key Takeaways

  • Early detection saves money and increases control success
  • Focus on high-risk areas: ramps, marinas, downwind coves
  • Consistency matters more than complexity
  • Use neutral descriptions; avoid firm IDs unless trained
  • Report promptly and follow guidance

Priority Sites

  • Boat launches: First 50-100 ft
  • Marinas: Docks and hard surfaces
  • Downwind coves: Fragment collection areas
  • Early-warming shallows: First spring growth

Want to Start a Volunteer Program?

Contact your lake association or local natural resources agency for training and support.

Get Started