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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250204T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250615T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250120T135523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T135712Z
UID:2279-1738656000-1750006800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Sea Grant of Michigan launches  MI Paddle Stewards to detect and report AIS
DESCRIPTION:The MI Paddle Stewards program consists of a three-hour\, self-paced online training. The program teaches paddlers to identify\, report\, and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Participants get tips for properly cleaning their boats and paddling equipment to avoid transferring aquatic invasive species and diseases between water bodies. \nThis program is just as applicable in Minnesota as in Michigan!
URL:https://mncola.org/event/sea-grant-of-michigan-launches-mi-paddle-stewards-to-detect-and-report-ais/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250516T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250613T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T201138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T205243Z
UID:2388-1747382400-1749834000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:AIS Detectors training (May and June)
DESCRIPTION:  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nThe AIS Detectors Core Course is an introduction to aquatic invasive species (AIS) science\, identification\, and surveillance. You will learn how to identify and report invasive species\, best practices for preventing the spread of AIS\, relevant rules and regulations\, and how to search for AIS on your own. \nThere are several sessions available including: \nMay 16 – Brainerd \nJune 3 and 4 – virtual session \nJune 13 – Meeker County \nRegistration is required. This registration link includes more details about the sessions. \nPlease note that the Brainerd and virtual sessions have fees between $150 and $220. The Meeker County session is underwritten by the Meeker County AIS Program.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/ais-detectors-training-may-and-june/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T120000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250114T203028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T185909Z
UID:2431-1748680200-1748692800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:WAPOA's 9th Annual AIS Roundtable
DESCRIPTION:Explore the latest research on starry stonewort\, zebra mussels’ impact on fish mercury levels\, eDNA for volunteer AIS surveillance\, and machine learning-driven boater movement modeling. Plus\, discover new strategies for restoring native plant communities after invasive species removal\, paving the way for more resilient lakes. \nThe Whitefish Area Property Owners Association (WAPOA) is again hosting its annual AIS Roundtable on Saturday\, May 31st at 8:30 am to 12:00 pm. \nIt’s free\, but you must register. The event will be held at: \nCrosslake Lutheran Church \n35960 Co Rd 66 \nCrosslake\, MN 56442 \nSpeakers include: \n Dr. Nick Phelps/ MAISRC \nDr. Nick Phelps studies emerging threats to aquatic systems at both the macro and microbial\nscales in the fields of fish health and aquatic invasive species\, which lie at the intersection of\nanimals\, humans and the environment. His goal is to identify threats\, understand risks\, and\nultimately develop long-term evidence-based management solutions to balance the needs of\nall relevant stakeholders. \nDenver Link/U of MN\, \nDenver Link is a research scientist at the University of Minnesota working with Dr. Gretchen\nHansen. His past research has focused on how invasive species\, particularly zebra mussels\, alter\naquatic food webs and fish mercury concentrations. He has a broader interest in understanding\nhow freshwater systems respond to environmental changes. He earned his M.S. in the Hansen\nLab and enjoys applying both field and quantitative approaches to address threats to aquatic\nsystems. \nAbha Panda/U of MN \nAbha Panda is a Ph.D. candidate working in Dr. Dan Larkin’s lab in the Conservation Sciences\nprogram. She received her B.S. in Environmental Studies from the University of Michigan and\nhas previously held research and communications roles related to water resources and\nenvironmental justice. Abha’s current research focuses on actively restoring native plant\ncommunities following invasive plant management in lakes as a means to build more invader resistant\nplant communities. Outside of work she enjoys reading\, biking\, and spending time\nexploring Minnesota’s natural wonders! \nMolly Tilsen/ U of MN \nMolly I. Tilsen is a University of Minnesota Water Resources Science master’s student. Her\nresearch focuses on AIS spread and prevention\, leveraging her background in aquatic ecology\,\nstatistical modeling\, data management\, and human dimensions. By combining machine\nlearning with insights from infectious disease research\, she is developing modeled networks of\nboater movements to enhance decision support for AIS management in Minnesota.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/wapoas-9th-annual-ais-roundtable/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T150000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T202439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T202439Z
UID:2395-1748682000-1748703600@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Lake Stewardship Symposium (May 31 - Ottertail)
DESCRIPTION:The symposium targets issues that are top of mind for lake property owners\, including: \n\nAIS prevention\n2025 Minnesota Legislative session\nVacation lake home rentals (VRBOs)\nShoreline restoration opportunities\nUpdates from Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC)\nUpdates from various lake organizations and regional coalitions of lake associations.\n\nThe Otter Tail County Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force and the Otter Tail County Coalition of Lake Associations (OTC COLA) are sponsoring the Lake Stewardship Symposium. \nThis free symposium on May 31st runs from 9 to 3 and will be held at Thumper Pond Resort. Lunch is included. \nRegistration is required. Use this registration link.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/lake-stewardship-symposium-may-31-ottertail/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T160000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T203503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T203503Z
UID:2405-1749117600-1749139200@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Midwest Beaver Summit 2025 (June 5 – virtual & Skokie\, IL)
DESCRIPTION:If you are gnawing for more insights into beavers after the fascinating presentation at the March MN COLA meeting\, check out the Midwest Beaver Summit 2025. This hybrid session can be attended on person and virtually. There are lots of presentations along with break-out sessions and local walks with experts. And our own Minnesota researcher Dr. Emily Fairfax is one of the presenters. \nThe costs depend on the options you choose when registering. Read more and register using this link to the Midwest Beaver Summit 2025.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/midwest-beaver-summit-2025-june-5-virtual-skokie-il/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250605T140000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T202926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T202926Z
UID:2402-1749128400-1749132000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Septic Health Check: A Deep Dive into Inspections & Maintenance (June 5 – Virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Northwoods Excavating\, a family-owned and operated business from Balsam\, MN will be conducting an inspection of a septic system in Itasca County\, highlighting the key aspects they assess as septic inspectors. Individual septic systems often provide superior waste treatment compared to municipal treatment plants\, thereby ensuring that the water returned to the environment is safe for both humans and wildlife. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity of a septic system. \nThis one-hour session starts at noon CT. Registration is required. Use this registration link. \nThis free\, virtual session is part of the Itasca County Practical Water Wisdom series. Check out their previous sessions.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/septic-health-check-a-deep-dive-into-inspections-maintenance-june-5-virtual/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250114T203818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T185902Z
UID:2240-1750150800-1750158000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:MN COLA Annual Membership Meeting
DESCRIPTION:MN COLA’s Annual meeting is coming up soon\, and besides electing Board Members\, we will have 2 key topics: \n\nStrategies for continuing to provide AIS prevention with potential funding cuts.\n\nNo matter what happens in the 2025 Legislative session and/or any special sessions to achieve a budget\, we need to consider how to protect the lakes and rivers when funding is at risk. Some strategies will take time to put in place and there is no better time to start preparing than now. \n\nAn update on state of the market approaches for AIS control and keeping the water healthy.\n\nAs science provides more options to control AIS infestations and water quality problems\, we thought it was appropriate to highlight the best approaches that are being used today. \nRegister today and join us for this informative and interesting session. Here is the registration link. \nBe sure to look for an email from Zoom after you register that includes the meeting link… and save it!
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mn-cola-annual-membership-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250625T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250625T090000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T204405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T204405Z
UID:2416-1750838400-1750842000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Digging in: Michigan’s Unconventional Response to Hydrilla (June 25 - virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Hydrilla is known as one of the most difficult aquatic invasive plants to control. When it was found for the first time in Michigan in September 2023\, the Michigan Invasive Species Program chose to take decisive action to eradicate it. Project lead Billy Keiper of EGLE’s Water Resources Division will walk through the response effort from detection to the recent excavation of two private ponds. Learn why and how this extraordinary effort was undertaken and the deliberation\, planning and cooperation that made it possible. \nThe one-hour virtual session starts at 8 am CT. Registration is required. Use this registration link. \nThis free\, webinar is part of Michigan NotMISpecies series. Check out their previous sessions. 
URL:https://mncola.org/event/digging-in-michigans-unconventional-response-to-hydrilla-june-25-virtual/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250710T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250710T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T204836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T204836Z
UID:2420-1752148800-1752152400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Biology and Management of Starry Stonewort (July 10 – virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Dan Larkin\, from the University of Minnesota will talk about the history of starry stonewort in North America and Minnesota\, what we know about factors that influence its spread\, its impacts to native aquatic plant communities\, and control methods and outcomes. \nDr. Larkin is a Professor & Extension Specialist in the Department of Fisheries\, Wildlife and Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and a Fellow with the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC). He and his research team work on applied challenges in invasive species management and ecological restoration in lakes\, wetlands\, and terrestrial habitats. Through his extension program\, he trains volunteers and professionals to support invasive species response and ecological restoration efforts. \nThe one-hour session starts at noon CT\, and registration is required. Here is the registration link. \nThis free\, virtual session is part of the Itasca County Practical Water Wisdom series. Check out their previous sessions.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/biology-and-management-of-starry-stonewort-july-10-virtual/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250717T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250717T140000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250506T205132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T205132Z
UID:2424-1752757200-1752760800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:How Low Can We Go? Zebra Mussel Control with Low-Dose Copper Treatments (July 17 - virtual)
DESCRIPTION:The USGS and MAISRC have been researching alternative strategies for invasive mussel population control using copper concentrations around 10% of the labelled maximum dose. The research has included two bay-wide treatments in Lake Minnetonka with the goal to reduce settlement of larval mussels thereby reducing recruitment and total population. Research included multi-year monitoring of the zebra mussel population and non-target communities. They also looked at seasonal trends of copper sensitivity in zebra mussels to identify ideal treatment periods. These projects also included public engagement and involvement in part to better gauge stakeholder interests regarding invasive mussel control objectives. The findings highlight potential methods for invasive mussel control alternative to the popular “eradication or bust” strategies. \nThe session starts at 1 pm CT. It is free\, but registration is required. Use this registration link.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/how-low-can-we-go-zebra-mussel-control-with-low-dose-copper-treatments-july-17-virtual/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250114T204045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T185855Z
UID:2242-1758013200-1758020400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:MN COLA Quarterly Membership Meeting - 10-11am cdt
DESCRIPTION:It’s all about wakes at our MN COLA September membership meeting. \nThat said\, this meeting will be a bit different. It will still be on September 16th on Zoom\, but because of a special program at Minnesota Public Radio\, our meeting will only be 1 hour long\, from 10 to 11 am CT. \nAt 9 am CT\, we will ask that you all tune into your local MPR station or stream it at mpr.org to hear a special session hosted by Kirsti Marohn with Jeff Marr and Andy Riesgraf from the University of Minnesota’s St Anthony Falls Laboratory to talk about the recently released Phase 2 report. Click here to find your local MPR radio station. \nThen at 10 am CT\, jump onto our Zoom link for the MN COLA meeting. Our meeting will continue the dialog about wakes starting with some context setting from Chuck Becker and following up with Scott Rolfs from Wisconsin’s Lakes at Stake organization talking about their efforts to build a broad-based coalition across various lake users. Multiple organizations from across the state\, singing with one voice\, will be more powerful than we are today and we hope to learn a lot from Scott. \nRegister today for this important\, informative\, and interesting session. \nEveryone is welcome to attend\, so feel free to forward this meeting information
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mn-cola-quarterly-membership-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251007T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251007T140000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T152904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T161114Z
UID:2487-1759842000-1759845600@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Chemical Contaminants in Lake Superior - October 7
DESCRIPTION:Photo: MN Sea Grant \nWebinar attendees will learn the status and trends of toxic chemicals in Lake Superior and how Canada and the U.S. use key indicators to help assess the lake’s health. The webinar will also explore how PFAS\, or “forever chemicals\,” are transported through the atmosphere and deposited into the water. Also\, learn how herring gull eggs have contributed to the understanding of chemical pollutants in the Lake Superior ecosystem. \nThis webinar is part of the Let’s Talk Lake Superior! webinar series hosted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\, Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Canada Water Agency. \nThis webinar is on October 7\, 2025\, at 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. CT. It is available at no cost and is recommended for anyone passionate about the Great Lakes. Registration is required. \nClick here for more information
URL:https://mncola.org/event/chemical-contaminants-in-lake-superior-october-7/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251009T074500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251009T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T153814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T221417Z
UID:2493-1759995900-1760029200@mncola.org
SUMMARY:2025 AIS Research and Management Showcase - October 9
DESCRIPTION: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 collaborate on efforts to prevent and control AIS. Attendees can participate in presentations\, demonstrations\, and tour MAISRC’s containment lab to see some research projects up close. \nClick here for more information including the agenda and presentations. \nRegistration is required. There is a $50 fee for the Showcase\, but discount codes are available on the registration page. The event is 7:45am – 5:00pm CT.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/2025-ais-research-and-management-showcase/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251014T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251014T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T154616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T160951Z
UID:2498-1760443200-1760446800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Harmful Algal Bloom Research in Northeast Minnesota - October 14
DESCRIPTION: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 mean for Minnesota waters and communities. Topics include: HABs in northern lakes\, HABs in Lake Superior\, and Community science for clean water. \nThis webinar is part of the Twin Ports Climate Conversation series hosted by Minnesota Sea Grant. \nThis webinar is on October 14\, 2025\, at 12:00 – 1:00 pm CT. It is available at no cost. Registration is required. \nClick here for more information
URL:https://mncola.org/event/harmful-algal-bloom-research-in-northeast-minnesota/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251021T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251021T140000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T155317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T221423Z
UID:2505-1761051600-1761055200@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Smart maps\, stronger conservation: Targeting land protection with GIS - October 25
DESCRIPTION:  \nThe 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. \nThis webinar is part of the Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership Lake Conservation webinar series. Paul Radomski\, Mitch Brinks\, Annie Knight and Ally Mazurek will be presenting. \nThis webinar is on October 21\, 2025\, at 1 pm CT. It is available at no cost. Registration is required.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/smart-maps-stronger-conservation-targeting-land-protection-with-gis-october-25/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251106T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251106T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T155956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T155956Z
UID:2511-1762430400-1762434000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Mystery Snail Impacts on Lake Ecosystems - November 6
DESCRIPTION: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 done to stop the spread. \nThis webinar is part of the Itasca Water Wisdom online webinar series\, co-sponsored by Minnesota Sea Grant. \nThis webinar is on November 6\, 2025\, at 12 – 1 pm CT. It is available at no cost. Registration is required. \nClick here for more information
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mystery-snail-impacts-on-lake-ecosystems-november-6/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250114T205014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T163620Z
UID:2245-1765270800-1765278000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:MN COLA December Membership Meeting - December 9
DESCRIPTION:The December quarterly Membership meeting will be held via Zoom on Tuesday\, December 9th at 9-11 AM CT. We have three important items for discussion: \n\nJeff Forester\, MN Lakes and Rivers Advocates\, will provide a preview of the 2026 Legislative session including an overview of their strategy to help retain the annual distribution of the $10 million in AIS Prevention Aid.\nFinally! The MN boat wrap recycling program has begun. Sarah Bonvallet is heading the recycling program and will present early steps that are underway.\nOne lake association is using software designed for homeowner’s associations to streamline much of the work related to member dues\, communications\, accounting\, document storage\, and more. Margrette Newhouse is the Treasurer of the Christmas Lake Homeowner’s Association. She will discuss the software package and how the Association is benefitting.\n\nRegister here for the meeting.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mn-cola-december-membership-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260126T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260327T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20250930T160502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T163600Z
UID:2515-1769414400-1774630800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Introduction to Lakes Online course - begins January 20\, 2026
DESCRIPTION: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. \nThis six-week online course kicks off January 20th and is designed for anyone interested in inland lakes including concerned residents\, decision makers\, local leaders\, and lakefront property owners. Course instructors include faculty from MSU Extension and state agency personnel. \nCourse topics include lake ecology\, watershed management\, shoreline protection\, aquatic plants\, Michigan water law\, and community engagement. These six topics are explored online through video lectures\, interactive activities\, and discussion forums. Additional resources are also provided for those looking to dive deeper into a topic. Participants communicate with each other and instructors through lively discussion forums and biweekly Ask-an-Expert webinars which include guests from organizations such as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Department of Environment\, Great Lakes\, and Energy. \nRegistration is open now through January 27\, 2026\, at 5 pm ET. The cost of the course is $115 per person. An early-bird rate of $95 is available if you register by January 5\, 2026. \nClick here for more information.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/introduction-to-lakes-online-course-begins-january-20-2026/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T160000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260110T132447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T165646Z
UID:2560-1770105600-1770134400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Shallow Lakes: Deep Insights into Management Challenges
DESCRIPTION:For this late-winter\, full-day event\, we bring together a group of lake management experts to present research\, case studies\, regulatory overviews\, and lessons-learned on specific lake management topics. We leave lots of time for informal discussions and networking as well. \nCome join us and help to advance lake management in Minnesota by learning from others and sharing your own knowledge and experiences. \nRegistration for our annual symposium typically opens in early January. If you are not yet ready to become a member\, but want to be notified about MLMS events\, add yourself to our contact list. You can unsubscribe at any time.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/shallow-lakes-deep-insights-into-management-challenges/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260205T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260205T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T171620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T165638Z
UID:2569-1770292800-1770296400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:What Lakes do in Winter
DESCRIPTION:For many years\, lake researchers focused mostly on open-water seasons\, leaving the ice-covered months relatively understudied. Today\, growing concern about rapidly changing winter conditions has led to a surge of interest in lake winter ecology. In this presentation\, Dr. Ted Ozersky from the U of MN – Duluth\, will explore what scientists are discovering about the physics\, chemistry\, and biology of lakes during winter—and what these shifting winter patterns could mean for lake health and the vital ecosystem services lakes provide. \nThis free webinar is from noon to 1 pm on February 5. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/what-lakes-do-in-winter/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260219T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T172008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T150257Z
UID:2573-1771502400-1771506000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Minnesota Ice-Out
DESCRIPTION:So\, this is a different kind of ICE Out than what’s been in the news. \nJohn Downing of Minnesota Sea Grant will present his 2026 ice-out forecasts and show you how you can win your ice-out pool for your favorite lake. Minnesota Sea Grant’s Ice-Out Clock yielded accurate ice-out forecasts for 2024 and 2025. This year\, the models are improved and now give forecasts for any lake you choose. The new models consider snow\, latitude\, how big the lake is\, cumulative cold and cumulative thawing. Tune in so you can plan when to put the boat in the water. \nThis free webinar is from noon to 1 pm on February 19. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/minnesota-ice-out/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260305T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260305T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T172537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T150305Z
UID:2577-1772712000-1772715600@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Strategies for Recreational  Watercraft Governance
DESCRIPTION:This practical webinar will be exploring why and how boat traffic is legally managed on lakes and rivers—and what that means for communities\, recreation\, and water protection. A panel featuring a water- and coastal-law attorney\, a boat-traffic enforcement officer\, and the director of a public-interest organization that helps people navigate lake and river issues will explain the legal foundations for restrictions\, real-world safety and enforcement considerations\, and how communities can balance recreation\, property rights\, and environmental protection. Ideal for lake residents\, local officials\, lake associations\, and anyone interested in fair\, effective watercraft management. \nPanelists include Terra Bowling from the National Sea Grant Law Center\, Jeff Forester from Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates\, and Matt Miller\, a Conservation Officer with the Marine Unit of the Minnesota DNR. \nThis free webinar is from noon to 1 pm on March 5. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/strategies-for-recreational-watercraft-governance/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T172952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T172952Z
UID:2583-1773316800-1773320400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Safeguarding Amphibians  from the Invisible Invaders
DESCRIPTION:Chytrid fungi are microscopic aquatic pathogens that have caused severe amphibian declines worldwide and represent one of the largest biodiversity losses linked to disease. In Minnesota\, the emerging chytrid fungus\, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans\, is of growing concern for conservation and aquatic ecosystem health. \nAmy Kinsley\, an Assistant Professor at the U of MN College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Fellow at MAISRC will fill us in on this interesting research. \nThis talk introduces MN-SNAPS\, Minnesota’s amphibian chytrid surveillance program\, which combines field sampling and education to support prevention and early detection. The presentation will explain how chytrid fungi spread\, why they matter\, and how risk modeling can be used to prevent their spread. This work emphasizes the value of planning\, awareness\, and prevention in safeguarding amphibian health and aquatic ecosystems. \nThe free webinar is on March 12 at 1 pm CT. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/safeguarding-amphibians-from-the-invisible-invaders/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20251209T184832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T225949Z
UID:2546-1773738000-1773745200@mncola.org
SUMMARY:MN COLA March Membership Meeting - March 17
DESCRIPTION:The March Membership meeting will be held on March 17\, 2026 at 9 – 11 am. Click here to register anytime before the meeting. The Zoom link for the meeting will be provided following registration in an email from Zoom. Watch for it and be sure to save the email. \nHere’s what’s on the agenda: \n\nDr. Nick Phelps from MAISRC will talk to us about compelling new research on the value of the AIS Prevention Aid. That is the program that provided $10 million annually for AIS prevention. As you may recall\, the $10 million was at risk in the 2025 Legislative session but was retained for another 2 years. It is slated to be back on the chopping block\, so it is vital that we all understand what it has delivered to Minnesota.\nJeff Forester from MN Lakes and Rivers Advocates will provide an update on the 2026 Legislative session that began in the middle of February. Hopefully some action will happen this year\, but it is a challenge as the House is evenly split and the DFL holds a one-seat majority in the Senate.\nKeegan Lund from SePro will talk about a creative approach to proactively stop the spread of starry stonewort in Minnesota. We ended 2025 with 37 waterbodies infested since the first infestation was found 10 years ago at Lake Koronis. Getting a handle on this high impact AIS is critical now! Keegan has been with us before\, and you may also remember him as an AIS specialist at the DNR.\n\nRegister here. \n 
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mn-cola-march-membership-meeting-march-17/
CATEGORIES:Featured
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T143000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260304T222236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T222412Z
UID:2707-1774346400-1774362600@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Area Lakes Conference
DESCRIPTION:Passionate about protecting our lakes? Join us on March 24th for the Lakes Area Conference! In partnership with Kandiyohi County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA)\, we’re hosting a free and engaging event for lake owners\, lake associations\, and anyone who cares about protecting our waters. Hear from local experts about safe wake zones and preventing shoreline damage\, shoreline protection and the role of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources\, watershed district resources and projects\, starry stonewort updates in our area\, and other helpful tools for lake communities. \nThe event will take place at the Dethlefs Community Center (217 Hillcrest Ave\, Spicer\, MN) on March 24 from 10:00 AM–2:30 PM (doors open at 9:30 AM).  \nPlease RSVP to ruth56288@gmail.com by March 9th. We look forward to seeing you there! \nThe event is free\, but an RSVP ensures enough lunches will be available. \nDownload the meeting agenda here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/area-lakes-conference/
CATEGORIES:Featured
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260331T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260331T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260309T125619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T150247Z
UID:2712-1774951200-1774954800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Wrap Recycle Right - March 31
DESCRIPTION:Sarah Bonvallet will present an overview of Minnesota’s new boat wrap recycling program\, Wrap Recycle Right\, created under the state’s first Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law for boat wrap. She will explain how the law shifts recycling responsibility to producers\, outline the role of key partners\, and describe Minnesota’s significant volume of boat wrap waste. Also\, she will describe the practical and valuable uses of the recycled boat wrap. \nShe will walk through how the program will operate\, and the importance of collecting clean\, “recycle‑ready” material. Discussing the program’s phased rollout plan\, Sarah will walk members through the steps of building a state-wide program and how they can get involved.  \nMN State Representative Larry Kraft will provide a brief introduction to explain how his boat wrap recycling program came to be. \nThere will be Q&A after the presentation. \nRegister today for the Wrap Recycle Right Seminar \nTuesday March 31\, 10-11amCT.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/wrap-recycle-right-march-31/
CATEGORIES:Featured
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T140000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260217T205044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T210306Z
UID:2635-1778072400-1778076000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Genetic Options for Controlling Invasive Carp Species - May 6
DESCRIPTION:  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nImprovements in our ability to re-write the genetics of living organisms that have been developed in the past few decades are rapidly accelerating the ability of biotechnology to address problems in medicine\, agriculture\, and the environment. In the area of pest and invasive species control\, innovative new genetic methods are already making an impact for organisms such as mosquitoes. Our group has been developing and refining genetic methods to control aquatic invasive species. In this webinar\, I will introduce the diversity of genetic pest control methods that exist\, share our current progress in translating these into common carp\, and forecast what still needs to be done before these approaches can impact local populations of invasive fish. \nThis free webinar is from noon to 1 pm on February 19. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/genetic-options-for-controlling-invasive-carp-species-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T143000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T173329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T150333Z
UID:2587-1778072400-1778077800@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Genetic options for controlling  invasive carp species
DESCRIPTION:Improvements in our ability to re-write the genetics of living organisms that have been developed in the past few decades are rapidly accelerating the ability of biotechnology to address problems in medicine\, agriculture\, and the environment. In the area of pest and invasive species control\, innovative new genetic methods are already making an impact for organisms such as mosquitoes. Our group has been developing and refining genetic methods to control aquatic invasive species. \nMichael Smanski\, Professor\, Department of Biochemistry\, Molecular Biology\, and Biophysics and Research Fellow at MAISRC will fill us in on this interesting research. \nThis webinar will introduce the diversity of genetic pest control methods that exist\, share our current progress in translating these into common carp\, and forecast what still needs to be done before these approaches can impact local populations of invasive fish. \nThe free webinar is on May 6 at 1 pm CT. Register here.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/genetic-options-for-controlling-invasive-carp-species/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260323T162137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T123222Z
UID:2751-1778918400-1778936400@mncola.org
SUMMARY:Lake Property Owners Stewardship Symposium 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join other lake property owners on Saturday\, May 16\, 2026 in a one-half day symposium\, at Thumper Pond Resort\, 300 Thumper Lodge Rd.\, Ottertail\, MN 56571. \nThe Otter Tail County AIS Task Force and Otter Tail County Coalition of Lake Associations have released the lineup for the 2026 Lake Property Owners Lake Stewardship Symposium. The Symposium will begin with a free hot breakfast for attendees at 8:00 a.m. followed by presentations from scientists\, county government officials and lake-oriented organization leaders. The event will conclude by 1:00 p.m. \nSymposium Lineup: \n\nNick Phelps– Professor and Department Head\, University of Minnesota\nChris LeClair– Director of Land & Resource\, Otter Tail County\nJeff Forester– Executive Director\, Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates\nPete Guck– Riparian Conservation Specialist\, East Otter Tail SWCD\n\nMany organizations and agencies will be hosting table displays for consultation and dissemination of relevant lake property owner information. To reserve a table at the event contact John Kruse\, OTC COLA Administrative Assistant. \nThere is no cost for the event including the free hot breakfast. Registrations for the event are greatly appreciated to assist in capacity planning. \nTo Register: \nclick HERE \nOR \nGo to www.otccola.org
URL:https://mncola.org/event/lake-property-owners-stewardship-symposium-2026/
CATEGORIES:Featured
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T171851
CREATED:20260130T174338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T165754Z
UID:2590-1780495200-1780506000@mncola.org
SUMMARY:MLR Leadership Summit
DESCRIPTION:The leadership summit will be held in Alexandria at the Legacy of the Lakes Museum. It is an opportunity for lake association leaders to connect\, get a legislative update from Jeff Forester\, and hear from the DNR. \nThe summit is planned for June 3 from 2 – 5 pm. Admission will be $15 which covers the cost of light snacks and includes entry into the museum. \nExpect more information soon but block the date on your calendar.
URL:https://mncola.org/event/mlr-leadership-summit/
CATEGORIES:Featured
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR