Lower Wisconsin River AIS Strategic Plan
Protecting the Lower Wisconsin River from Aquatic Invasive Species
The Lower Wisconsin River is the longest free-flowing (undammed) section of river in the Midwest. For four days canoeists can paddle without a portage, camp on sandbars, fish, and watch wildlife, seeing only a few other souls and little evidence of man’s existence.
The Lower Wisconsin River is also a treasure trove of biodiversity in the Upper Midwest. It is home to federally endangered species, such as the winged mapleleaf and Higgin’s eye mussels, and living fossil species, such as shovelnose sturgeon and paddlefish.
Much has been done to protect this amazing recreational and ecological resource. However, the LWR is threatened today by aquatic invasive species (AIS) that will overrun native plants and animals and diminish the recreational value of its tributaries, sloughs and mainstem. Due to the Wisconsin River’s popularity, it is the perfect conduit for AIS coming up from the Mississippi River and running straight into the heart of Wisconsin.
The list of species of concern is long and troubling: viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS), western mosquitofish, Asian carp, zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, quagga mussels, and faucet snails. Boaters, fishermen, and hunters are often responsible for the intentional and unintentional spread of these species. They have to play a large part in preventing the spread of AIS, but only if they know how. Join us as we begin a widespread effort to educate the public....
Attend an Open House Meeting to Learn More!
Join us to learn about the unique native fish and mussels of the Lower Wisconsin River, learn about the invasive species that threaten them, and help shape future efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of these invasives. If you fish, hunt, boat, paddle, etc. on waterbodies in the Lower Wisconsin River or are interested in protecting them, we need your input. Events are held throughout the season, stay tuned for announcements or like the River Alliance on Facebook to get announcements.
Become a Clean Boats, Clean Waters volunteer!
The Lower Wisconsin River has been identified by the WDNR as a priority for increased boater education. The Clean Boats, Clean Waters volunteer watercraft inspection program is an opportunity to take a front line defense against the spread of aquatic invasive species. Volunteers perform boat and trailer checks for invasive species, distribute informational brochures and collect and report any new water body infestations. We need volunteers to work at boat landings on the Lower Wisconsin River this summer. Attend our occassional free trainings to learn more. Contact Matt Krueger at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you are interested in a training.
Participate in Aquatic Invasive Species Action Day!
Date: Saturday, June 25, 2011
Time: 9am – 1pm
Location: Meet at Prairie du Sac VFW boat landing at 9am, finish at August Derleth Park in Sauk City at 1pm
Cost: Free, and refreshments will be provided. Participants must provide their own boat, water, PFD, sunscreen, etc.
RSVP: Matt Krueger, River Alliance of Wisconsin at (608) 257-2424 x125 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Timm Zumm at FLOW, 608-575-0325 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it