NFCRWD Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Program
Since 2013 the District has worked with local partners to develop an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Watercraft Inspection Program. After requests for support in raising awareness regarding AIS, the NFCRWD took an active approach in helping prevent the spread into area lakes and streams. With the support of Grove, Rice, Pirz and Koronis Lake Associations, the District has been able to employ DNR Level I Inspectors to assist local fisherman and recreational boating enthusiasts in identifying potential modes of transport of AIS.
Level I inspectors are DNR authorized inspectors can prohibit the launching or operation of water-related equipment if a person refuses to allow an inspection, or doesn't remove water or aquatic invasive species. Authorized inspectors can also require a watercraft to be decontaminated prior to launching into MN waters.
The District's main goal with the AIS Watercraft Inspection is to raise awareness of the effects of AIS and their transport methods, as well as to prevent the unintentional spread of AIS to those water bodies that are not currently infested.
MN DNR Guide to Aquatic Invasive Species
Species-by-species identification and management information
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Infested Waters Map
AIS Reports
NFCRWD 2024 AIS Boat Inspection Report
NFCRWD 2023 AIS Boat Inspection Report
NFCRWD 2022 AIS Boat Inspection Report
NFCRWD 2021 AIS Boat Inspection Report
NFCRWD 2020 AIS Boat Inspection Report
What are Aquatic Invasive Species?
AIS Videos
Lake Vegetation Surveys
Rice Lake Vegetation Survey
Rice Lake (DOW 73-0196-00) is a large 1,509 acre lake located 5 miles east of Paynesville MN, in Stearns County. Rice has a maximum depth of 41 feet and contains a littoral area of about 55.8 percent which permits light penetration and allows plant growth.
Rice Lake is classified as a eutrophic lake with moderate water clarity as measured over the past 13 years by mean Secchi depth of approximately 6.3 feet. Continual annual monitoring allows for statistical trend analysis on the lake’s water quality. Currently, the lake’s water quality is stable, with no trends in water quality. Total phosphorus and chlorophyll-a (values that provide a measure of the amount of algae in the water) are considered high with mean values 61.5 and 26.8 ug/L at the primary site Rice Lake.