Invasive species training offered in Grand Marais

Lake Service Providers are required by law to attend Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) training and obtain the permit prior to working in waters of the state. For their convenience, a training session is scheduled in Grand Marais on May 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Cook County Community Center. Lake Service Providers should act now and be sure to attend the training session and obtain a permit before performing work this spring.

Irrigation contractors who install/ remove lake pump equipment and pond aeration equipment are considered Lake Service Providers – along with those who install/remove other water-related equipment (docks, boats, etc.) that is capable of containing or transporting Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), aquatic plants, or water from Minnesota lakes, streams and rivers.

State laws passed in 2011 aim to help prevent the spread of AIS between waters in the state. They also require service providers to apply for a permit, pay the $50 application fee, attend training in person and pass a test. Upon completion of all mentioned tasks a permit will be issued to the service provider.

Through a partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Minnesota Waters is conducting statewide trainings for businesses that install and remove water recreation equipment. The training sessions provide the information needed to understand and pass the required test. In addition, service providers are taught how to integrate AIS prevention strategies into their business.

Information about the service provider training and permitting can be found on the DNR website (www.dnr. state.mn.us/lsp/index.html). The online permit application for service provider businesses is available on the DNR website. The service provider permit, which will be valid for three years, must be in possession while providing any services. Persons who work for a permitted service provider must take an online training prior to working in waters of the state. The online training for the employees is available on the DNR website.