Aquatic invasive species cause tremendous harm to our environment, our economy, and our health. They can drive out and eat native plants and wildlife, spread diseases, and damage infrastructure. We work to protect our waterways and the communities that depend on them from the threat of invasive species.

What We Do

Our Services

We safeguard waterways and communities from invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species
by working with our partners and educating the public. Our regional coordinators work closely with the public and private sector partners and our network of conservation offices to
conduct on-the-ground control projects and early detection surveillance and monitoring, and provide technical support. The Service also develops regulations to prohibit the importation and some transport of harmful species known as injurious wildlife and serves as a co-chair to the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.

Our Projects and Initiatives

  • Preventing Introductions
  • Early Detection Surveillance and Monitoring
  • Stopping the Spread
  • Suppressing Infestations
  • Educating the Public

Latest Stories and Topics

Our Library

The mouth of a sea lamprey - a large oral sucking disk full of sharp, horn-shaped teeth--makes the animal an efficient killer of fish..
An aquatic invasive species is a freshwater or marine organism that has spread or been introduced beyond its native range and is either causing harm or has the potential to cause harm.
A graphic showing a red stop sign with a boat on a ramp.
Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species starts with all of us. By working together we can protect our aquatic resources and recreational opportunities for future generations.
A person sprays off the bottom of a boat.
Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species starts with you. By taking a few simple steps you can protect our aquatic resources and ensure that these harmful species do not spread into new areas.
zebra mussel nestled in a marimo moss ball
Invasive zebra mussels have been found in "moss balls," a plant product sold at aquarium and pet supply stores, garden centers, florist shops, and online retailers. Zebra mussels are regarded as one of the most destructive invasive species in North America and there is concern that live mussels...
A person stands in front of a lake and holds a large goldfish up to the camera.
Goldfish can seem like the ideal low maintenance pet. But if you are no longer able to care for your them, it can be difficult to know what to do with your fishy friend.