March 26, 2025–Otter Tail County, MN—Spencer McGrew, Otter Tail County AIS Specialist and chair of the Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee (SAISAC) called on lawmakers to reconsider proposed Local Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Aid cuts. McGrew testified before the Minnesota State Senate Taxes Committee on March 25 to address the proposed funding reductions that threaten Minnesota’s successful AIS prevention programs. On behalf of the SAISAC, McGrew laid out several key points arguing for the program to maintain its full funding.
The Critical Role of Fully Funded AIS Prevention Programs
County-led AIS programs, including watercraft inspections, cleaning stations, enforcement, and outreach, account for 90% of Minnesota’s AIS prevention efforts. These programs rely on state funding to protect Minnesota’s waters. AIS prevention programs have significantly slowed the spread of invasive species over the past decade.
“Mr. McGrew’s testimony highlights an important truth that we, as leaders, must take to heart: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so we must consider the potential implications if AIS such as starry stonewort were to spread to other lakes across Minnesota,” commented County Commissioner Wayne Johnson. “I urge the legislature to prioritize funding for preventative measures to protect our lakes and communities. The time to act is now.”
The Cost of Funding Cuts
- Studies show that every dollar spent on prevention saves $100 in AIS management costs. The fight against starry stonewort at Lake Koronis is an example of an eradication program projected to span five years and cost an estimated $800,000.
- In 2024, Minnesota taxpayers spent over $2.6 million on AIS management—a cost that will only rise without strong prevention measures.
- In 2023, tourism and outdoor recreation contributed $13.5 billion to Minnesota’s economy. The spread of AIS could have serious economic and environmental consequences for businesses, property owners, and local communities.
“Despite these challenges, new infestations have significantly decreased over the past decade, demonstrating that local AIS prevention efforts are working,” reported McGrew. “Cutting AIS Prevention Aid by half will severely impact rural counties like Otter Tail County, home to 1,048 lakes, where we depend on tourism and have fewer financial resources to combat infestations.”
McGrew urged Minnesota lawmakers to continue protecting the state’s lakes, rivers, and natural resources for future generations and maintain its leadership in AIS prevention funding.
