Use these resources to learn more about these species, spread prevention, and volunteer opportunities.
Identifying Aquatic Invasive Species
List of Known Vermont Waterbodies with AIS
A listing of ten aquatic invasive species and what waterbodies they occur in around the state.
The Lake Champlain Basin AIS Guide
A guide to aquatic invasive species in the Lake Champlain Basin with descriptions of size, characteristics, habitat, and distribution. This guide lists invasive species both currently present in the basin and species not yet found in the basin. Note: spiny waterflea and Asian clam are listed as not yet found but have been established since 2014 and 2016 in Lake Champlain and Lake Bomoseen respectively.
A Key to Common Vermont Aquatic Plant Species
A key to help you identify 29 native and 11 invasive aquatic plants through a process of elimination based on characteristics such as whether the plant is submersed, floating-leaved, or emergent and type of leaves.
Invasive Aquatic Plants and Native Look-alikes
A graphic showing images of six invasive aquatic plants and similar-looking native plants.
Regulations
Invasive Species Laws and Regulations
Descriptions of Vermont’s rules regarding aquatic invasive species including aquatic nuisance control permits, transporting aquatic nuisance species, and the noxious weed quarantine.
Vermont Noxious Weed Quarantine List and Rules
The Noxious Weed Quarantine List exists to protect Vermont’s environmental and economic resources. Non-native plants that pose a serious threat to Vermont are classified as class A (plants not yet in the state) or class B (plants with limited distribution in the state) noxious weeds. It is illegal to purchase, plant, or transport plants on the quarantine list.
Using Baitfish in Vermont and Fishing Guide and Regulations
More on using personally harvested baitfish and commercially purchased baitfish as well as regulations in Vermont including approved species for baitfish use and legal collection methods.
Spread Prevention
Department of Environmental Conservation Spread Prevention Programs
Information on how Vermonters can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species through participation in efforts such as the cooperative boat wash program, the Invasive Patrollers program, and Public Access Greeter program.
Vermont Invasive Patrollers (VIP)
More on what invasive patrollers do and how to get involved. The training manual covers what you will learn at a VIP workshop including identification, performing a survey, and submitting samples.
Vermont Public Access Greeter Program
More on what public access greeters do and how to get involved. The training manual covers what you will learn at a public access greeter workshop offered annually. Topics include identifying AIS, interacting with boaters, and decontaminating watercraft.
How to Conduct an Aquatic Plant Survey
Instructions on how to perform an aquatic plant survey and why they are done and how to build a scope to view plants underwater.
Report an Aquatic Invasive Species
If you find an aquatic plant you think may be invasive, check out this webpage to see how to report it to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Funding
Grant-in-Aid Program
Funding for municipalities proposing aquatic invasive species management plans. More on the types of projects that are eligible, applying, and funding information.
Vermont Watershed Grants
Funding that is available for a wide range of water-related projects, including AIS monitoring and spread prevention. More on who is eligible, applying, and funding categories.
Lake Champlain Basin Program Local Implementation Grants
Information on grants from past years. AIS spread prevention grants are awarded up to $15000. Requests for proposals are typically in the fall of each year.