The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers grants to lake associations and other groups for invasive aquatic plant management projects.

Invasive aquatic plants are non-native plants that can potentially reduce native plant diversity and create recreational nuisance in lakes. The DNR’s invasive plant management goal is to minimize harmful effects caused by invasive plants while also protecting the natural resources and their use.

Applications will be accepted starting midnight Thursday, Nov. 10. The application deadline is 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12.

In a change from prior years, invasive aquatic plant management permit applications will not be required at the time of grant application. Instead, grantees will apply for permits after receiving a grant, as a step in their grant work plan. Receiving a grant will not guarantee a permit.

Application materials and details about the grant program will be made available on the DNR website on Nov. 9.

Questions can be directed to DNR aquatic invasive species research and grants coordinator Jake Walsh, jake.walsh@state.mn.us (link sends email), or to DNR regional invasive species specialists.