Northern Wisconsin’s pristine lakes are highly vulnerable to Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), which disrupt delicate underwater ecosystems and lower water quality. These non-native invaders spread rapidly, choking out native wildlife to leave behind weed-matted shorelines, fouled boat hulls, and degraded fisheries. Identifying and understanding these invaders is the first crucial step in preventing their establishment and protecting our shared natural heritage.

Because Presque Isle Lake features two public boat launches, we are constantly exposed to visiting boat traffic that may carry these hazardous hitchhikers. It is essential to catch the invaders before they ever enter the water. Prevention also has an economic benefit.  Once an AIS is established, it can never be completely eradicated, only managed.  Traditional remediation, such as chemical treatments and weed harvesting—is incredibly expensive, and it never fully solves the problem. Investing a few hours as a volunteer in the Clean Boats, Clean Waters program protects both our ecosystem and our wallets.

Click on each image to see the name and a brief description.  For a list of Wisconsin DNR documented AIS sightings in Vilas County as of fall 2025, see https://vclra.org/aquatic-invasive-species-of-vilas-county/