Invasive Species

I joined the Great Lake Commission's aquatic invasive species team as a program specialist in 2023. In this role, I work on various projects including the Invasive Mussel, European Frog-bit, and Phragmites Collaboratives, as well as the Great Lakes AIS Landing Blitz. I also provide staff support to the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species and the Great Lakes Spawning Whitefish and Invasive Mussels Project.

I was introduced to the field of invasive species while working as a watercraft inspector in Chisago County, Minnesota during a gap year between undergrad and grad school. To fill my 10 hour shifts at the boat launch I made small talk with boaters and got to understand their passion for protecting the lakes they love. I experienced many random acts of stewardship and resonated with their love of aquatic environments. I grew an appreciation for the field of invasive species and decided to pursue it for my master's degree.

My graduate research at the University of Minnesota focused on understanding the cost-effectiveness of aquatic invasive species prevention practices completed by boaters and trained watercraft inspectors to guide future AIS management and decision making.