Conferences & Events
2025 AIS Research and Management Showcase – October 9
The University of Minnesota AIS Research and Management Showcase is an annual event that highlights the latest MAISRC research, innovations, and strategies for managing aquatic invasive species in Minnesota. This one-day showcase on October 9th provides a platform for scientists, natural resource managers, and the public to learn about cutting-edge research, engage in discussions, and... Read more »
Harmful Algal Bloom Research in Northeast Minnesota – October 14
Harmful algal blooms are becoming more common across northeastern Minnesota, showing up in waters from remote inland lakes to the vast expanse of Lake Superior. Some produce toxins that can be dangerous to people, pets, and wildlife. Researchers across the region are working to understand better where and why HABs occur and what that might... Read more »
Smart maps, stronger conservation: Targeting land protection with GIS – October 25
The Northern Waters Land Trust will be presenting on their project, which developed an interactive GIS mapping tool to identify and prioritize land protection projects within the watersheds of Lakes of Outstanding Biological Significance (LOBS). Each parcel within these sensitive watersheds was systematically scored to determine conservation priority. This webinar is part of the... Read more »
Mystery Snail Impacts on Lake Ecosystems – November 6
Sometimes the smallest organisms can have surprising impacts. This presentation will focus on invasive mystery snail impacts to continental North America and will include information on three invasive mystery snails: Chinese mystery snails, Japanese mystery snails, and banded mystery snails. This event will also explore potential mechanisms for continued mystery snail dispersal and what can be... Read more »
MN COLA December Membership Meeting – December 9
The December quarterly Membership meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 9th at 9-11 AM CT. The agenda and meeting access will be available here as the date approaches.
Introduction to Lakes Online course – begins January 20, 2026
Registration for the award-winning Michigan State University Extension Introduction to Lakes Online course is now open! MN COLA’s Jim Kutzner took this on-line course 4 years ago and thought it was highly valuable and completely relevant to Minnesota Lakes. This six-week online course kicks off January 20th and is designed for anyone interested in inland lakes including... Read more »