The Sherburne Soil and Water Conservation District (SSWCD) is proud to announce its participation in the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center’s (MAISRC) new Lab to Lakes Initiative, a vital effort aimed at addressing the harmful ecological impacts of common carp in Minnesota’s lakes. 

As one of the most damaging invasive species in the state, common carp significantly disrupt lake ecosystems by reducing native plant and fish diversity, degrading water quality, and harming the natural balance of aquatic environments.

In collaboration with numerous state and local partners, MAISRC spearheaded a workshop in 2023 to identify barriers and opportunities to implement common carp management strategies. The outcomes of this workshop underscored the urgent need for action and provided crucial context for translating research into tangible management practices.

Through the Lab to Lakes Initiative, SSWCD and its partners will implement research-driven strategies aimed at controlling common carp populations in Lake Fremont. Over the next four years, the project will focus on reducing carp numbers to restore the lake’s ecosystem functions and protect its biodiversity. 

“The Lab to Lakes program offers a unique opportunity for Lake Fremont, one that we are very excited about locally,” said Sherburne SWCD Sr. Water Resource Specialist Dan Cibulka.  “But more importantly, this program will greatly improve our collective understanding of carp management in all Minnesota lakes and how a lake ecosystem can positively respond to large-scale management of invasive common carp.”

By working together, Lake Fremont and MAISRC are committed to safeguarding our water resources and ensuring a healthy, thriving lake environment for future generations.

This project is funded through an appropriation by the State of Minnesota, with additional support from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and the University of Minnesota. For more information about the Lab to Lakes Initiative, visit labtolakes.org.