With 1,048 lakes—the most of any county in the U.S.—Otter Tail County is taking action to protect its waters from invasive species as part of National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW).
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, and hydrilla pose a significant threat to Minnesota’s lakes and rivers. These species disrupt native ecosystems, harm fish populations, and degrade water quality—often spreading when boats, docks, or watercraft equipment move between lakes.
“People want our lakes to stay clean, healthy, swimmable, and full of fish. AIS threatens these resources, and we need to protect them,” said Spencer McGrew, AIS Specialist for Otter Tail County.
To combat AIS, Otter Tail County’s AIS Task Force is leading education and prevention efforts, including:
• AIS Handbook: A new handbook offering essential AIS prevention strategies will be distributed to lake property owners, resorts, and civic organizations. To request a copy, contact Otter Tail County Land & Resource at (218) 998-8095.
• Lake Stewardship Symposium: On May 31, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Thumper Pond Resort, the county will host a one-day symposium featuring experts on AIS prevention, shoreline restoration, vacation rentals, and lake stewardship programs.
During National Invasive Species Awareness Week and beyond, Otter Tail County urges residents and visitors to take action to stop AIS from spreading. For more details on AIS prevention and the upcoming Lake Stewardship Symposium, visit ottertailcounty.gov/invasive-species.
AP Citation: Otter Tail County Land & Resource Management. “Otter Tail County Recognizes National Invasive Species Awareness Week.” Otter Tail County, MN, February 21, 2025.
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Otter Tail County Recognizes National Invasive Species Awareness Week
Feb 24, 2025 | 7:10 AM