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

Stories
Man with a beard wearing a Marine veteran hat
Our People
Veteran protects Alaska's waters
What do military service and invasive species prevention have in common? For Marine Corps veteran Steve Wogtech, it's about a lifelong commitment to serving others. At Alaska's busiest border crossing near Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, Steve brings decades of public service experience to his...
Biologist on boat sample for aquatic invasive species.
Science and Technology
All Hands on Deck for Early Detection
In the words of Benjamin Franklin, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” For invasive species management this is often referred to as early detection and rapid response, or EDRR.
Watercraft inspector physically inspecting two kayaks on top of truck roof rack for aquatic invasive species.
Recreation
Preventing dreissenid mussels from entering Alaska
Just as Gandalf famously declared 'You shall not pass!' to protect the passageway from great evil in Lord of the Rings, we must continue a similar attitude in our prevention of zebra mussels. These tiny, invasive mussels pose a serious threat to our waterways, ecosystems, and infrastructure. By...
zebra mussel nestled in a marimo moss ball
Get Involved
Zebra mussels aren't "mossing" around
On August 5, 2024, zebra mussel-infested Marimo moss balls were detected at an aquarium wholesaler in Washington state. This incident serves as an important reminder to remain vigilant and take action to ensure your aquariums and waterways stay zebra mussel free!
Staff member uses PCR to process eDNA samples
Wildlife Management
You can swim, but you can’t hide
Scientists can detect invasive fish in the Great Lakes by identifying their DNA in the water.
A lake trout with red, circular wounds and a sea lamprey attached, eating its side.
Wildlife Management
Saying “see ya” to sea lamprey
Controlling the invasive sea lamprey population in Lake Champlain benefits the ecosystem and supports recreational fishing.
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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..
What is an aquatic invasive species?
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.
Story
Get Involved
A graphic showing a red stop sign with a boat on a ramp.
Clean, Drain, Dry
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.
Story
Recreation
A person sprays off the bottom of a boat.
Five Ways to Protect Our Waters
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.
Story
Get Involved
zebra mussel nestled in a marimo moss ball
Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in Moss Balls
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...
Story
Science and Technology
A person stands in front of a lake and holds a large goldfish up to the camera.
How to Break Up with Your Goldfish
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.
Story
Wildlife Management