Invasive Species
Terrestrial Invasive Species
Early detection of potentially invasive species is a critical first step in effective management and risk evaluation of non-native and invasive species. Citizens often are the first detectors when out enjoying Minnesota's great outdoors.
Early detection of potentially invasive species is a critical first step in effective management and risk evaluation of non-native and invasive species. Citizens often are the first detectors when out enjoying Minnesota's great outdoors.
Here are some terms we use to describe different plant and animal species:
Non-native: An organism that is not indigenous to a region (also referred to as exotic).
Invasive: A non-native organism that causes harm to the environment, the economy or human health.
Weed: A plant that is considered undesirable in a particular location or situation. Weeds may be native or non-native.
For more information on Terrestrial Invasive Species | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
These are the top invasive species found in Kandiyohi County.
Picture credit: MN DNR websiteFor more information on Terrestrial Invasive Species | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
These are the top invasive species found in Kandiyohi County.
![]() Spotted Knapweed |
![]() Common Buckthorn |
Purple Loosestrife |
![]() Leafy Spurge |
![]() Wild Parsnip |
![]() Queen Ann's Lace |
![]() Common Tansy |
![]() Garlic Mustard |
![]() Canadian Thistle |
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Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
Sometimes called exotic, invasive, nonindigenous or non-native are aquatic organisms that invade ecosystems beyond their natural, historic range. Their presence may harm native ecosystems or commercial, agricultural, or recreational activities dependent on these ecosystems.
Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) have become a local issue as infestations have been found in Kandiyohi County. Kandiyohi County has taken a proactive approach to the issue. One way it has been proactive is by educating the public on best management practices that will prevent the spread of AIS.
In Minnesota it is illegal to:
- Transport watercraft without the drain plug removed.
- Arrive at a lake access with drain plug in place.
- Transport aquatic plants, zebra mussels, or other prohibited species, whether dead or alive.
- Launch watercraft with prohibited species attached.
- Transport water from Minnesota lakes or rivers.
- Release live bait into the water.
Kandiyohi County Aquatic Invasive Species Plan-2014 Draft
DNR Clean, Drain, Dry (You Tube video)
For more information on Aquatic Invasive Species | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) |
Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) |
Curly-leaf Pond Weed |
Spiny waterflea (Bythotrephes longimanus) |
Starry Stonewort (Nitellopsis obtusa) |
Flowering rush |
Pictures: MN DNR website |