Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Survey (2012)

Aquatic Invasive Species Links
	Riparian Landowner Aquatic Invasive Species Survey (2012) Douglas County AIS site WI Sea Grant AIS page NOAA AIS site WI DNR AIS page

What is the Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Survey?

The Riparian Landowner Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Awareness Survey was one aspect of an Aquatic Invasive Species Control grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, received by the City of Superior. The project was a collaborative effort between the City of Superior, UW-Superior Lake Superior Research Institute and the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve.


The survey was sent to all riparian landowners in the City of Superior. The goal of the survey was to gauge understanding of AIS issues in the riparian landowner community (results available below). Following the survey, a workshop was held for all interested riparian landowners within the City of Superior with the goal of educating landowners about AIS and shoreline restoration. All landowners who completed and returned the survey were given a coupon to receive native plants and all participants in the workshop were given native plants at the event. Workshop participants were also able to sign up for an expert invasive species assessment at their properties.

Why is Aquatic Invasive Species awareness important?

Aquatic invasive species are non-native animals and plants that have spread to new ecosystems. Many aquatic invasive plant species are threatening the places they colonize because of their prolific seed production, which allows them to spread rapidly over large areas. This displaces the native plant populations which are vital for erosion prevention and wildlife habitat. The presence of aquatic invasive species also impacts recreational use of local water bodies. Awareness of local aquatic invasive species and the problems they present is important to controlling them and preventing further spread.

Why survey Riparian Landowners about Aquatic Invasive Species?

Surveying landowners about aquatic invasive species was important in determining the extent of awareness about species that are problematic in the City of Superior. Riparian landowners, because of their proximity to local streams, rivers and lakes, may have aquatic invasive species on their properties. They also have the potential to help mitigate the issues caused by aquatic invasive species through shoreline restoration. Knowing the extent of their awareness was important in determining what type of information is needed to increase awareness and work towards restoring native plant communities.