During the 2014 legislative session, a
county aid program was created to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). Based on the number of trailered watercraft launches and trailer parking spaces, the funding Washington County receives varies, ranging from $139,581 in 2015 to $132,169 in 2017.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue has certified $135,409 for AIS prevention aid for Washington County in 2022. The county uses the funds, in partnership with the Washington Conservation District to provide countywide AIS programming, including watercraft inspections, early detection and rapid response, and education. In addition, some funds will be provided to Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District for a joint inspection program with Chisago County. The remaining funds, approximately $44,000, is available for treatment grants. Detailed results are available upon request
The application for the treatment grant is available. The deadline for submittal is March 7, 2022. Email the application to Jessica Collin-Pilarski at jessica.collin-pilarski@co.washington.mn.us.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has another grant opportunity, the 2022 Aquatic Invasive Species Control Grant Program. They are currently accepting applications through 9:00 am Monday, February 21, 2022.