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Aquatic Invasive Species
Overview
In 2012, the City of Chanhassen developed an enhanced program to combat the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). The policy was developed by compiling extensive input from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), watershed districts, lake associations, and citizens. 2015 will mark the fourth year that Chanhassen has managed this program.
Trained Inspectors
The city has contracted Volt Workforce Solutions to provide trained inspectors at all three public access points throughout the 2014 boating season.
There was also a DNR-sponsored watercraft inspection program that provided an additional hours of inspections at Lotus Lake. The city is recommending continuation of this programing 2015.
Common Carp
Riley Creek Chain of lakes includes 5 lakes of which Lake Lucy is positioned on top of the chain and below it are lakes Ann, Susan, Rice Marsh and Riley. Common carp is present in all lakes, although their density has been historically highest in the three lower lakes. Common Carp is one of the world’s most widely distributed and damaging invasive fish. Development and implementation of a strategy to control common carp in the Riley Creek Chain of Lakes was adopted by Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed District and the City of Chanhassen.
Action Plan
The AIS action plan was endorsed by the city council on February 27, 2012 and includes the following:
- A watercraft inspection program
- Incorporation of updated DNR Best Management Practices (BMP) for water access at the three city-owned public access points
- Collaboration with other project partners
- Preparation of a year-end report to consider further actions
- $10,000 City of Chanhassen
- $25,000 Riley-Purgatory-Bluff Creek Watershed District
- $ 7,750 MN Dept. of Natural Resources
Public awareness and education
Preventative actions that you can take to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species include: removing visible aquatic hitchhikers form the boat and trailer, draining water out of the bilge or live well, and disposing of any extra and unused bait in the trash and not in the lake. It is illegal to transport any aquatic plants, zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails or other prohibited invasive species, or to launch a boat or trailer with these species attached.
Two students at Chanhassen High School put together a video on how to do a boat inspection.
Reports
- Aquatic Invasive Species Program 2013 Annual Report
- Literature Review on Controlling Aquatic Invasive Vegetation with Aquatic Herbicides
Related Resources
- 2015 Aquatic Invaders Summit
- AIS City Documents (staff reports, agendas, minutes)
- Carver County Water Management - AIS
- DNR Designation of Infested Waters
- DNR Invasive Species in Minnesota
- DNR Invasive Species Prevention Update
- DNR Lake Service Provider Training and Permit
- DNR Water Access Best Management Practices
- DNR’s Approach to Management of Invasive Aquatic Plants Summary of Improvements
- FAQ About Watercraft and Bait Draining Laws
- Minnehaha Creek Watershed District AIS
- Press Release October 2014
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
If you see common carp or other aquatic invasive species in a waterbody within Chanhassen, please contact our Water Resources Department.