Lake education
Education
Protecting the Wabana Chain from Aquatic Invasive Species
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) remain an ongoing concern for lakes across northern Minnesota. Prevention is the most effective protection. Minnesota DNR guidance applies whether or not a lake is currently listed as infested.
Clean, Drain, Dispose and Dry
- Clean boats, trailers, docks, lifts, fishing gear and other equipment. Remove aquatic plants, mud and prohibited invasive species.
- Drain all water before leaving the access or shoreline, and leave drain plugs out during transport.
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Never release bait, plants or aquarium pets into Minnesota waters.
- Dry docks, lifts and swim rafts for at least 21 days before placing them into a different lake or river. This is required by Minnesota law.
The DNR also recommends decontamination when appropriate and drying watercraft and equipment for at least five days before using them in another water body.
Minnesota DNR: Prevent the spread of AIS | Guidance for shoreland residents
Moving docks, lifts and other water equipment
Used shoreline equipment can carry zebra mussels and other invasive species. Inspect posts, footings, wheels, underwater supports, ropes, anchors and other submerged surfaces carefully. Anyone transporting equipment with attached prohibited invasive species may need a DNR transport authorization. If you hire a company to move water-related equipment, use a DNR-permitted lake service provider.
DNR: Clean, drain and dry docks and lifts for 21 days | Permitted lake service providers
If you find something suspicious
If you believe you have found zebra mussels or another invasive species not already known to be present, photograph it, note the exact location and contact the Minnesota DNR. Do not move suspected invasive species to another water body.
Minnesota DNR Infested Waters List | DNR AIS contacts
Healthy Shorelines and Water Quality
Healthy northern Minnesota lakes depend on healthy shorelines and watersheds. A 2026 Minnesota DNR and MPCA review of more than a decade of fish monitoring found that healthier lakes generally had lower phosphorus inputs, less watershed disturbance and better shoreline habitat. Lakes with exceptional fish communities had the highest shoreline habitat quality.
Lake residents can help by maintaining native shoreline vegetation, limiting erosion and runoff, keeping leaves, fertilizer and other nutrients out of the lake, maintaining septic systems, and minimizing disturbance in shallow-water habitat.
Own Your Wake
Boat wakes can erode shorelines, suspend sediment, affect water quality and damage fish and wildlife habitat. The Minnesota DNR recommends that motorized watercraft stay at least 200 feet from shorelines, other watercraft and structures when practical. Boats designed to create enhanced wakes should operate even farther away and use deep, open water. Reduce speed in shallow water and near shore, and avoid repetitive passes in the same area.
WCOLA AIS Planning
WCOLA supports AIS education, prevention and watercraft inspection efforts for the Wabana Chain of Lakes. The association also maintains a rapid-response plan to guide local action if an infestation is identified.
Last reviewed September 2026. Regulations and lake infestation status can change; use the Minnesota DNR links above for current requirements and current infested-waters information.