Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Detector
ORGANIZATION: Dakota County
Please visit the new page to apply.
As the threat of AIS (aquatic invasive species) continues to grow across Minnesota, there is a need for an organized statewide surveillance program that targets high-risk areas with trained observers. In partnership with University of Minnesota Extension, this program will train you to identify and report potential aquatic invasive species such as Starry stonewort and zebra mussels. Early detection is one of the most effective ways to help stop the invasion and spread of AIS. By responding to reports and weeding out false positives, you'll play a critical role in helping the Minnesota DNR protect our lakes and rivers.
Who can become an AIS Detector?
Motivated adults over the age of 18 can become AIS Detectors! It’s ideal for AIS managers, citizen scientists, lake association members, county AIS task force members, Master Naturalists, and any member of the public who has a desire to learn more about and get involved in the fight against AIS.
What is the time commitment?Certification requires completion of approximately 16 hours of training, both online and in-person. The online portion can be completed around your schedule anywhere you have access to the internet and the in-person portion consists of a single, full-day workshop.
Once certified, Detectors must complete 25 hours of volunteer service and 8 hours of advanced or refresher training each year to maintain their certification.What will I do as an AIS Detector?
As an AIS Detector, you will serve a critical role by helping identify new invasive species occurrences. Examples of activities you'll do include:
- Responding to reports of new potential AIS which have been submitted to the DNR. By filtering out false positives, you will allow the DNR to more efficiently focus their efforts
- Reporting incidental AIS observations. After taking the course, you will have the knowledge and skills to identify and report AIS that you may come across as you are out enjoying Minnesota’s water resources
- Participating in new detection surveys. After additional training, you will be able to help search lakes for new AIS.
- Assist with outreach or other AIS projects. You may be asked to participate in other outreach activities or AIS-related projects in coordination with the DNR, University of Minnesota Extension, and the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center. Examples including helping out at MAISRC’s annual Research and Management Showcase, presenting at lake association meetings, or sharing AIS information with your community.
What is the cost?
The program costs $195 but Dakota County has funds available to help offset the cost for residents. To qualify for the reimbursement, we will need:
- Register through the UMN website (link is below)
- Payment Confirmation page
- Certificate of completion from the online class - or -
- Certificate of completion from the In-person class
10 More opportunities with Dakota County
Opportunities
About Dakota County
Location:
1590 Highway 55, Hastings, MN 55033, US
Mission Statement
Building stronger communities through empowered volunteers.
Description
Looking to lend a hand? We'd be happy to have you! Our volunteer opportunities run the gamut. Enhance the environment, influence struggling youth, encourage lifelong learning and so much more. The time you commit is in your control. Dive into a daylong event, volunteer in a monthslong program or help us out for years to come. No matter what you choose, you'll be building a better community. So go ahead, pick you passion and start feeling food about giving back.
CAUSE AREAS
WHEN
WHERE
Dakota CountyDakota County, MN 55123
DATE POSTED
April 24, 2018
SKILLS
- Water Recreation
- Habitat Restoration
- Environmental Policy
- Environmental Education
- Environmental Science
GOOD FOR
- People 55+
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be at least 18
- 16 hours training, 25 hours volunteer service