Regional Aquatic Invasive Species Program

Chris Hamerla is the regional AIS coordinator at Golden Sands Resource Conservation & Development Council, Inc. The Regional Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program focuses on outreach and education surrounding AIS. It supports citizen activities, such as identifying AIS, monitoring for, and reporting new populations. They provide technical assistance with grant applications, reporting, and assist with the deliverables of grants. The program provides hands-on training for AIS removal work, biological control of purple loosestrife and Eurasian watermilfoil, and lake monitoring techniques. They verify new populations of AIS, mapping populations and surveying areas of concern while partnering with county and state agencies. The information is used in management decisions and for developing a baseline for tracking changes.