meeting packet - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District

ss41 MAYWOOD BOAD, SUITE 200
.
. TELEPHONE 5521745-0789.
MOUND, MINNESOTA s5s64
FAX 952/745-9085
GreEory S. Nybeck, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOB
December 3.2015
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT: l2lllll5 AIS Task Force Meeting
The next AIS Task Force Meeting has been scheduled for Friday, December II,20I5 (8:30 a.m.
in the LMCD office). Chair Jay Green has established the followirrg agenda:
1.
Call to order
2.
Approval ofagenda
3.
Review of minutes from the
4.
Hennepin County Environment and Energy, update fronn Tony Brough on "Alternate
Pathways for Aquatic Invasive Species" Report prepared by Fortin Consulting, Inc.
llll3lI5
AIS Task Force meel;ing
5. Review of 2015 watercraft inspection programs (initiate
disicussions for 2015)
6.
2016 LMCD AIS Task Force meeting schedule:
o Discussion of goals and objectives
o Frequency of meetings
o Consolidation with West Metro AIS Coordinatins Committee
o Other
7.
Task Force member reports- limited to 30 mirrutes
8.
Adjournment
Please feel free to contact me
if you
have questions relating to this meeting.
I look forward to
your attendance.
s
3070 Post Consunrer Waste
Web Fage Address: http://www.lmcd.org
.
E-mail Address: lmcd@imcd.org
To orotect and oreserve Lake Minnetonka.
ITEIIfT
3
LAKE MINNETONKA CONSERVATION DIST]RICT (LMCD)
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES (AIS) TASK FOR MEETING
MINUTES
8:30 a.m., Friday, November 13,20L5
LMCD Office, 5341 Maywood Road (Suite 200), Mound, MN 55364
Present: Chair Jay Green, LMCD Board; Fred Meyer, LMCD Board; Jo
Craig Dawson, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD); Eric Fi
Lake Minnetonka Association; Christine Hokkala-Kuhn. Minnesota
(MN DNR); Keegan Lund, MN DNR; Paul Moline, Carver Count
(Carver County); Ray Newman, University of Minnesota;
Christmas Lake Homeowners Association; Leslie Stovring,
DNR; Dick Woodruff. Also in attendance: Gres N
of Minnetonka:
MCWD; Tom Frahm,
of Natural Resources
ment Organization
ty; Joe Shneider,
pelling, MN
Approval of Aeenda
The agenda was approved as submitted.
Minutes
The minutes from the 5/8/15 andgllT/I5
AIS Topics Discussed:
A summary of topics discussed
a
Update from MCWD
a
Update from MN
a
a
ing for the
LMCD o
goals and obj
Committee, etc.)-\
items thev would I
pted as subrnitted.
at this meeting
'.ZebraMussels in Christmas Lake.
DNR on
response
Lake Koronis.
Commissi
this.
Discuss
Vari
The
Meetings
this di
coordinate a
IST
at
for the
Stany Stonewart infestation in
was to make a written request r:f MN DNR
liginformation meeting in the near future on
rce was scheduled for Friday, I2/1,L/S (8:30 a.m. at the
meeting includes a2016 meeting schedule (discussion of
consolidation with West Metro AIS Coordinating
were encouraged to contact Nybeck with any possible agenda
for this meeting.
Adiournment
There being no further
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Nybeck
Executive Director
ness, the meeting was adjourned at LO:44 a.rn.
ITEM
4
i
Alternate Pathways for
Aquatic Invasive Species
AIS sold through pet stores and nurseries
Prepared for Hennepin County
Department of Environmental Services
by
Fortin Consulting, Inc.
October 2015
215 Hamel Road Hamel, MN 55340 o (763)478-3606
r fci@fortinconsulting.oom r www.foftinconsulting.com
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic Invasive Species
AIS sold through pet stores and nurseries
Executive Summary
Fortin Consulting, Inc. (FCl)was hired by Hennepin Crcunty to conduct a search for
pathways, other than watercraft, for aquatic invasive species (AlS) to reach our waters.
Specifically, the study focused on pet stores (aquariunr tradelt and nurseries that sell
aquatic plants for water gardens and ponds.
Lists of pet stores and nurseries were compiled and called to determine if they carry live
aquatic species. Stores that carried live plants and invertebriltes were visited to
determine if they sold any AIS on Minnesota's list of prohibited and regulated species or
species considered early detection targets. Additionally, storr-.s that carried fish were
called to ask if they sell Koi and gotdfish.
No Minnesota prohibited species were found in the stores inspected. Eighty-eight
percent (88%) of the pet stores and g4o/o of the nurseries inspected carried Minnesota
regulated aquatic plant species. Twenty stores that selll goldfish and six stores that sell
koiwere identified. Goldfish and koi are regulated fish species which are legal to sell
and possess but cannot be released into Minnesota waters.
Two species identified by the Minnesota Departrnent of Natural Resources as early
detection target were found at the nurseries, water lettuce anrC ys;;.!v floating heart.
One store had plants labeled with the scientific name of a prohibited invasive species. lt
was later identified to be a similar species that was not a listed AlS. However, this
indicates the store potentially would have sold a prohibited sprecies if it had been the
right plant as labeled.
Another potential source of AlS, besides direct sales of plants, is hitchhikers. The plants
often contained hitchhikers, either other plants or snails attaclhed to or receiverl in the
container provided. We found several different hitchhiker plant species and tirry snails
on the plants purchased and in the water troughs at the nurselries.
Many of the regulated species found have been found in Minnesota lakes, ponds,
wetlands or streams and some have been invasive. The storers carry species of plants,
invertebrates and fish from all over the world. All the pret storers and nurseries inspected
are complying with Minnesota AIS Laws. However, threy are ;cotential sources of
aquatic invasive species that may become a problem if accidently or intentionally
released to Hennepin County and Minnesota waters.
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive,Speciers, l=ortin ConsultingS, lnc.
PageZ
Introduction
Aquatic invasive species (AlS) are at the forefront of concern for Minnesota waters.
Introduction of AIS through watercraft is the primary fo,cus in Minnesota. Inspections of
watercraft are common in Hennepin County and throuEhout tlhe state. Hennepin County
staff recognized the need to also look for other ways these AIS can reach our lakes,
streams and wetlands. Fortin Consulting, Inc. (FCl)wels hirecl by Hennepin County to
conduct a search for alternate pathways for aquatic in,uasive species (AlS) to reach our
waters. Hennepin County residents can purchase Al{l throulgh the aquarium trade and
local nurseries. Hundreds of species of plants, inverterbrates, and fish from all over the
world are sold through these businesses. These species can be either intentionally or
accidently introduced to Hennepin County waters. Al$ are a problem in Minnesota
waters because they out-compete native species and harm a lake or stream's
ecosystem. The purpose of this project was to identify'if retail pet stores and nurseries
are sources of AIS in Hennepin County
Plants included on the Search List included Minnesota Prohibited and Regulated
species, Minnesota Noxious Weeds, Federal Noxious Weeds and some plant species
on a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) "Early Detection" list.
According to Minnesota Statute 84D.01, "lnvasive species" means a nonnative species
that:
(1) causes or may cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human
health; or
(2) threatens or may threaten natural resources or the us;e of natural resources in
the state.
Minnesota further separates AIS into four tiers, prohibited inviasive species, regulated
invasive species, unlisted non-native species and unrelgulaterl non-native species. This
project focuses on the prohibited invasive and regulated invariive species. lt is unlawful
(a misdemeanor) to possess, import, purchase, transport, or introduce prohibited
species except under a permit for disposal, control, research, or education. lt is legal to
possess, sell, buy, and transport regulated invasive species, lcut they may not be
introduced into a free-living state, such as being releas;ed or planted in public waters
Prohibited noxious weeds cannot be sold, propagated or tran,sported without a permit in
Minnesota. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and Reed Grass (Phragmites ausfralls
non-native subspecies) are prohibited noxious weeds that grow in shallow water or on
the water's edge. There are some aquatic plants on the federral noxious weed list, such
as Azolla pinnata and Hydrilla vefticillata. A federal nrcxious weed is a plant which is of
foreign origin, is new to or not widely prevalent in the LJnited {itates, and can directly or
indirectly injure crops, other useful plants, livestock, or poultryr or other interests of
Alte rn ate Pathways for Aq
u
atic lnva sive Species,
l=
or
tin Consu
ltirt
g, nc.
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Page 3
agriculture, including irrigation or navigation, or the fish or wikllife resources of the
United States or the public health.
Methods
FCI staff prepared a list of species to look for based on the Minnesota prohibited
invasive species list, regulated invasive species list, state ancl federal noxious weed
lists, and the DNR Early Detection list. See appendix A. Input was received from
Minnesota DNR staff on species to include. Staff reviewed plilnt identification
information for those species of which we were not fanniliar. l/lost of the species were
plants, but also included snails, crayfish and fish. In acldition to searching for species on
the list, staff recorded all species that were labeled or could easily be identified during
the inspections. A Minnesota DNR Prohibited Invasivr.' Species Permit was obtained to
allow FCI staff to possess prohibited aquatic invasive lrlants arnd invertebrates in case
they were found and were purchased for furtil'rer identif ication
The project scope included a search for pet stores ancl water garden plant suppliers.
The project was divided into two parts. The pet store inspectiions were done in March
and April, with additional follow-up inspections completed in Jlune and July. The water
garden supplier inspections were completed beginning in June and July when the stores
were most likely to carry live plants. Lists of potential suppliers were developed through
online searches and knowledge of locations in Hlennepin County. Staff also contacted
the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to determine if they licensed suppliers of
aquatic plants specifically and would have a list. They did not. All potential suppliers
were called to determine if they were still in brusiness, and if tlrey carried live plants and
other live species. A list for each type of supplier was created that included only those
suppliers that reported they carried live plants or other species. lf we were unable to
reach the store, we drove by to determine if it still existed.
Based on the final list, Hennepin County GIS staff crearted two nraps: 1.) Pet stores that
sell live plants and,2.) Water garden plant nurseries. The maps allowed FCI staff to
group the locations for more efficient inspectlons. SeerApperrdix B and C.
At the request of Hennepin County staff, inspections were conducted anonymously.
Staff visited the stores and recorded a list of plants and snails present .FCl staff also
looked for the crayfish and looked at the fish in the tanks. In sionre cases, if plants were
not labeled, staff spoke with the store clerk/owner and asked the name of the plants.
Photos of unknown plants were taken and compared tro the lis;t of species of concern. lf
a listed plant was suspected and identification not confirmed, the plant was purchased
and brought back to the office for identification.
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Speclers, l:ortin Consulting, lnc.
Page 4
Results
Pef Sfores
The initial search for pet stores resulted in a list of 90 potentierl suppliers. These stores
were called to determine if they
sold fish and live plants. Nine
stores were no longer in business,
some sold only products and not
live animals, two were wholesale
suppliers, two carried only
saltwater fish and supplies, and
many did not carry aquarium
supplies. This narrowed the list
down to 26 stores that carried
Plant display at a PetSmart
freshwaterfish and of these, 18
that carried live plants. Eighteen retail stores carrying aquarium plants and other live
species were inspected. The five that carried fish but no live plants were called to
determine if they sold koi and
goldfish. See Appendix B.
Number and type of species of
plants and invertebrates varied
substantially from store to store.
The big box stores such as Petco
and Petsmart generally carried a
similar list of plants. They were
mostly labeled and packaged. A
few were in aquariums and were
either unlabeled or there was a
label on the aquarium. They sold
snails labeled as "mystery" snails,
but were a different species than
the listed species of concern.
Walmart did not carry live plants,
but did sell snails and goldfish.
The tank had a label of "Black
mystery snails " but they did not
have any at the time of the
Plants at a small aquarium shrop
inspection. Aquarium plants often
have small snails attached to them that are not visible until thre plant is removed from
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Species, Fortin Consulting, lnc.
Page 5
the tank and inspected more closely or rinsed. Some snails were found on the
purchased plants.
Inventory in the smaller stores varied from carrying jus,t a few plants, fish, snails or
crayfish to a wide variety of plants, fish and invertebralles. Most plants were in
aquariums with multiple species and most were not lalleled. lt was very difficult to
identify these plants without removing them from the tilnk. Wr-' purchased several plants
that looked similar to the listed plants to confirm their irlentification.
A total of 149 plant species (including varieties) were found at the 17 stores that carried
live plants. There may be more species since some of the snrall stores did not have
plants labeled and they were not easily identifiable. A'World of Fish carried the most
plants (53 different species and varieties). That store also posts lists of species
available on their face book page each time they receive a new shipment. FCI staff
compiled a list for 6 different months. Eighty-eight differrent sprecies or varieties were
recorded between October 2014 and February 2015. This provides an indication of how
many species may be missed when conducting a single inspection. We found about
40oh fewer plant species than was listed as being carried in the store in that 6 month
period. One pet store informed FCI staff that they do not carql live plants due to the
concern of invasive species.
No fish species on the prohibited invasive species list'were found. The species on the
AIS list are not likely to be sold in pet stores, but more likely trc be contaminants in
minnows sold at a bait shop. Twenty of the pet stores sell goldfish (Carassius auratusl
and six stores sell koi (Cyprinus carpio) which is a type of carp. Goldfish and koi are
both on the list of regulated invasive species (Table 1). They have been found in
Minnesota waters.
Several types of snails were found, but none on the AIS list. Some were labeled
"Mystery Snails" but were varieties such as black or gclld and the shells were c;olored as
indicated. These snails are from the genus Pomacea. The invasive mystery snails are
different genera, Viviparus and Cipangopalu<|ina.
Appendix D is the complete list of plant speciles and invertebrates found during the
inspections.
No Minnesota prohibited invasive species were found during the inspections conducted
at the 18 pet stores. Fifteen of the 17 stores (88.2o/o) carried Minnesota regulated
invasive species, which are legal to sell but not legal to releas;e to Minnesota waters
(Table 2). Note that the percentages listed in parentheses are based on 17 stores since
Walmart did not have live plants. The 3 regulated gencrra and species found are listed
below.
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specle;s, l=orttn Consulting, lnc.
Page 6
Brazilian elodea (Egen'a densa). Brazilian
waterweed is a very common aquarium plant
and is often sold under the common name
"Anacharis". This plant was also found to be
listed as "Elodea" or called "Elodea" by store
clerks. lt was found in 10 of the 17 (58.8%)
stores inspected.
Nymphaea species. Nymphaea are water
lilies, floating-leaved plants. Several stores
carried water lily
bulbs, some also with
bulbs of additional
aquatic species. The
species were not
identified. Since the
species were not
labeled, we do not
know how many
different species or
varieties of water
lilies are being sold. Water lily bulbs were found in 7 of the
inspected.
1Z
(41.2Vo) stores
Fanwort (Cambomba caroliniana\. Three stores
carried green and/or purple cabomba. Both of these
are varieties of C. caroliniana. One store hari
"Cabomba" listed on a tank, but did not have the plant
When the store was revisited, the word "Cabomba"
had been erased and they did not have the plant. The
plant was found on a third visit to the store. Cabomba
was found in 3 of the 17 (17 .60/o) stores inspected.
It is important to note that this report includes a
snapshot of what was present in the store at the time
of inspection. We revisited three stores as a check to
see if additional AIS might be found. We found two
Cabomba at two of the three stores where it hadn't
previously been found. lt was listed on the glass of an
aquarium at one store on the first inspection.
F a nwo
rt
(Ca bo mba ca rol i nia
Alternate Pathways for Aquattc lnvasive Species, Fortin Consulting, lnc.
nal
PageT
Table 1. Pet stores that sell koi and/or goldfish
Store
of Fish, Minneapolis
Koi
Goldfish
1
A World
X
X
2
Aqualand Aquarium Center
X
X
3
Aquatropics, Crystal
X
X
4
Noah's Ark, Excelsior
X
X
5
Petco, all 5 locations
X
10
Petsmart, all 6 locations
L6
Sea Level Fish, Hopkins
X
X
L7
The Fish Guy, Excelsior
X
X
18
Walmart
X
19
Walmart
X
20
Walmart
X
X
Table 2. Invasive Plant Species Found in Pet Stores
Store
Brazilian
Green or purple
waterweed
fanworit
Egeria densa
I
A World of Fish, Minneapolis
X
2
Aqualand Aquarium Center
X
\iVater lilies
Csbombq
lVymphoeo
Any
cqroliniana
sp.
AIS
X
X
X
3
Aquatropics, Crystal
4
Noah's Ark, Excelsior
X
5
Petco, Brooklyn Park
X
6
Petco, Eden Prairie
X
l
Petco, Maple Grove
X
X
X
8
Petco, Minnetonka
X
X
9
Petco, Richfield
X
X
10
Petsmart, Eden Prairie
LI
Petsmart, Maple Grove
L2
Petsmart, Minneapolis
13
Petsmart, Plymouth
X
L4
Petsmart, Richfield
X
15
Petsmart, St. Louis Park
1.6
Sea Level Fish, Hopkins
17
The Fish Guy, Excelsior
# stores carrying species
Frequency of occurrence*
Plant status
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
10
3
7
15
58.8%
L7,6%
4L.2%
88,2%
regulated
regulated
regulated
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasivt: Specles, Fortin Consultinq, lnc.
Page
B
Water Garden Plant Suppliers
The initial search for nurseries resulted
in 72localions in Hennepin County.
After calling the stores to determine if
they sold aquatic plants, the list was
narrowed down to 30 locations. One
additional location just outside of the
County border was also inspected.
we received mixed information when
lnspecting aquatic plantsi at a Hennepin county nursery
calling the big box stores, some indicated they carried aquatic plants or weren't sure, so
we visited all of them. Three of the eight Home Depots; carrierl water garden plants in
the form of packaged bulbs, including up to six varietiers of werter lilies (Nymphaea) and
a few other plants. One of the two Lowes carried packaged klulbs of Nymphaea and
others. All of the Menards stores and Walmart did not carry arny water garden plants.
Some stores indicated they had carried thena in the past, but no longer carry them.
A few other stores informed us they would be selling water gerrden plants when we
called them, but did not have any when we visited the store. This included Plantique in
Minneapolis, Garden Patch in Excelsior, and MalmborE's in Flogers. The Rogers
Malmborg's location expected to get some plants from the Bncoklyn Center loc;ation, but
never received them. In addition to the Hennepin County locartions, FCI staff inspected
one store close to the County border in Otsego that carried a lot of water garden plants
and had some regulated or early detection species listed on their web site.
Inspections of water garden suppliers begin the first week in .June. Most nurseries do
not get the water garden plants in until late May or June. Ther list of species used for
the inspections was somewhat similar to the plant list used for the aquarium supplier
inspections with the addition of
some floating-leaved species.
However, we recorded all
plants that were labeled and
any that were shown on a list
posted at the stores even if not
in stock at the time of
inspection (See Appendix E.).
One of the stores, Bachman's,
provided the name of their
supplier and informed FCI staff
that they could get any of the plants they offered. This Minnesota wholesale supplier
(Cook Water Farms in Askov, Minnesota), carried 65 clifferent species of water lilies,
Alternate l.'athways for Aquatic lnvasive Sper,'ies, l::ortin ConsultinlS, lnc.
Page 9
water hyacinth, water lettuce, Brazilian watenrueed, yellow iris, and yellow floating heart.
They also list "Mystery snails" as another product they sell. llowever, the latin names
for the Mystery snails was not provided so we could not confirm if they are the invasive
snails.
Of the 31 locations inspected, 17 actually had water garden/arquatic plants in stock at
the time of inspection. In total, there were 196 species (includling varieties)found (See
Appendix E). One store, Hedberg's carried 54 different plant species and varieties.
Table 3 lists the locations selling aquatic plants, the AIS founrl and percent occurrence
in the 17 stores that carried live plants. No prohibited species were found. Regulated
and Early Detection AIS were found in 16 of the 17 nurseries palo/o). The nursery
where no AIS were found is a native plant supplier. No AIS were found at the retail
location for this nursery.
Three nurseries were revisited at later dates. No new AIS welre found during these
visits, Since it was later in the summer, the stores had fewer species available and did
not plan to reorder.
Alternate Pathwaysfor Aquatic lnvasive Species, Fortin Consulting, lnc.
Page 10
Table 3. Nurseries Selling Aquatic Plants
Yellow
Brazilia n
waterweed
Parrot
feather
Water
hvacinth
Water
lettuce
Water
lilies
floating
Yellow
Any
heart
iris
Ars
o
J
Ss
6tr
AJ:
F.S
Er
6S
sE
Store
sH
IF
qU
.s
Fc
o
o
.E
st:
Ri
lE
Eg
h-E
E
3u
3
tr
e
.-ur
I
q
c
=
101 Market
(Otsego, Wright
co.)
X
X
X
2
Bachmans, Eden
Prairie
Bachmans,
X
X
3
Minneapolis
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bachmans,
4
Plvmouth
5
Fairs
6
Hedberg's
8
9
10
1,1,
\2
13
Market
Xry
X
X
X
Home Depot,
Minneaoolis
Home Depot,
Plvmouth
Home Depot,
Richfield
X
X
Otten Brothers
Tangletown
Wagner's
Minneapolis
X
X
X
X
X
X bulbs
X
X bulbs
X
X
X
X
X bulbs
Malmborgs,
Brooklvn Center
Natural Shore
Technolosies
15
X
X bulbs
Lawn Kins
Lowes, Maple
Grove
1,4
16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Wagner's,
T7
Bloomington**
# nurseries carrying
specres
I
8
9
10
r,
2
1,
t6
10
ss%
47.I%
52.9%
58,8%
64.7%
11"B%
ss%
94.r%
76s%
regulated
Early
Detect
Frequency of
occu rrence
Status
rePulated
regulated
Early
regulated
Detect
regulated
xOn posted price list but not found in store
at time of inspection (not included in frequency of occurrence calculations)
*+ Plants labeled Hydrocharis morsus-ranoe (the AIS European frogbit) were found this location. The plants were later identified
as Limnobium spongia
***Excludes stores that sold only dry bulbs
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specieis, Forttn Consulting,
lnc.
Page 11
Regulated Species
Five different genera of AIS were found. Four species and as many as 47 different
species or varieties of water lilies (genus
Nymphaea).
Brazilian waterweed (Eqeria densa\ - a
submersed plant more commonly used
aquariums. lt was found in only one of the nurseries
inspected (5.9%).
in Cffit"*""d
Parrotfeather (Mvrioph:tllum aquaticum) - a
submersed rooted plant that also emerges out of the
water. lt was found in 7 of the nurseries inspected
(47.1o/o). lt was listed on a price list but apparently
sold out at another nursery.
Parrt>t feather
Water lilies, manv varieties (Nymphaea spp.)
- rooted- floating-leaved flowering plants.
Note: The Home Depots that carried aquatic
plant bulbs had up to 6 different varieties of
Nymphaea bulbs. Lawn King carried 11
different varieties of water lilies. There were
possibly 47 different species or varieties of
water lilies. lt was difficult to determine if
some were the same since they were listed
by common rather than scientific name.
Water lilies were found in 11 of the nurseries
(64.7o/o).
Water hyacinth (Erchhomr,a crassr'pes) - a
non-rooted floating-leaved plant that can
double in about 12 days. lt was found in 9 of
the nurseries (52.9%). lt was listed on a
price list at another nursery, but apparently sold out.
Yellow iris (/ris pseudacorus) - also known as yellow flag iris, an
emergent plant that grows along shorelines in shallow water or moist
soils. lt was found in 1 of the nurseries (5.9%).
Yellow iris
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Species, Foftin Consul'ting, lnc.
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tZ
Early Detection Target Species
Two early detection target species were found.
Water lettuce (Pisfia sfraflofes) - a non-rooted
floating-leaved plant that can double in about 12
days. ltwas found in 10 of the nurseries inspected
(58.8%).
Yellow floatinq heart (Nymphodes pelfafa) - a
rooted floating-leaved plant that is similar in
appearance to water lilies, but with small wavy
and somewhat heart-shaped leaves.
Phragmites, common reed grass, a listed
noxious weed was found at two nurseries. There
were two varieties available. Neither appeared to
be the Phragmites ausfralis invasive subspecies.
The most commonly found plants were water lilies, water hyacinth and water lettuce.
Potential Prohibited Plant
Plants labeled "Hydrocharis morsus-ranae", rlommon name E.uropean frogbit, a
prohibited species, were found at one nursery. Howev,er, further identification by FCI
staff and confirmation from DNR staff revealed that thel plant'was actually Limnobium
spongia, a similar species not on the prohibited or regr,rlated s;pecies lists for Minnesota.
Hitchhikers
Another pathway for invasive species is
as hitchhikers on plants sold. We found
hitchhiker plants at 10 of the stores (See
Table 3). lf only the stores that sold
plants (excludes the 4 stores that sold
only dry bulbs) are considered, then 77o/o
of the stores had plants with visible
hitchhikers. The hitchhikers found were
Azolla caroliniana, Lemna and Spirodella
species, filamentous algae and small
snails. These plants are not intentionally
sold but end up attached to the plants, in
the pots, or in the water transported with the sokl plants.
Altetrnatet Pathway:;f'or Aquatiu
lrtva:;ittt: Sitc:r;roi;, i::c:riin Cctrtsultinq, lnc.
Page 13
When conducting the inspections, staff noticed very litltle information available about
how to dispose or not dispose of the plants and other species. One Petco had the
"Habitatitude" bags that the plant was placed in for purchasing. No explanation was
ever provided about invasive species or disposing of prlants.
Midwest lnvasive Plant Network List
The Midwest invasive Plant Network publishes a list 01'new aquatic invasive plants in
the Midwest for Midwest states to keep a look out. The list includes many of the
prohibited and regulated species on the Minnesota list. In adclition, it includes the
following plants:
Reed manna grass (Glyceria maxima)
European waterclover (Marsilea quadrifolia)
Although this list was not part of our initial search, since we were able to record the
species available at the stores, we compared them to this list. Neither of these species
was found in our searches. However, plants of both genera were found and these plants
could be purchased from one of the wholesale suppliers.
Discussion
No prohibited species were found during the inspections of b<lth pet stores and
nurseries, although one store carried plants labeled "l-;lydroch'aris morsus-ranae" or
European frogbit, a prohibited species. Since this plant was sold with the label
European frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae), the store that carried it likely would have
sold a prohibited species had they been provided the correct species as labeled.
Although no prohibited species were found, several regulatedl species and "early
detection" species were found at both pet stclres and rrurseriers. This project cclnfirmed
that both pet stores and nurseries are a potential source of invasive species. One pet
store clerk commented that they have access to about 800 species of plants that can be
interchanged and sold as "assorted plants". The chain pet stores had staff that was just
somewhat knowledgeable about the species sold. Starff at thr: smaller pet stores
seemed the most knowledgeable about the plants and other species that they carried.
Only three species of regulated plants were found in the 17 pet stores that sol<j plants.
However, many of the plant species sold are from other countries or other states and
could potentially become a problem if intentionally or arccidently released to surface
waters.
Alternate Patltways for Aquatic lnvasive Specieis, Fortin Consultin.q, lnc.
Page 74
Nurseries that carry water garden plants are also a potential source of invasive species.
Seven regulated or early detection plants, plus many water lily species or varieties were
found in the 17 stores that carried water garden plants. Many other exotic water plants
are sold in these nurseries that could potentially be a problem if released to our waters.
There is a short window of time that nurseries carry thre water garden plants. We were
told they sell out quickly and they often do not reorder Somer had already been sold out
of the stores visited later.
The inspections indicated species that were present at the tinre of the visit. Many stores
may carry additional species that were not available a1. the time of the inspection. We
revisited at least 10o/o of the stores to try to determine differences in species carried.
However, since some of the water garden stores don't reorde r onc€ their stock is sold,
the stock found was much less than found during the original inspection. For example,
a Bachman's store had 38 different species of plants on a June inspection and had only
15 on a July inspection, 3 of which were not found on the first visit. Pet stores order at
different frequencies. Some that we visited did not ha've many plants available, but
would be reordering. We revisited some of these to get a better inventory of what they
carried. Some stores indicated they reordered every couple of weeks. We tried to get
species lists from the stores, but did not have much sLtccess.
Some of the plants found during the inspectir:ns have been reported in Minnes;ota lakes
or rivers, including Brazilian waterweed, parrot feather, yellow iris, and water lettuce.
Some plants, such as water lettuce, may not survive lVlinnesc,ta winters, but others have
been able to survive in Minnesota waters. Koi and qoldfish have also been found in
Minnesota waters.
Many plants on Minnesota's prohibited and regulated speciesi lists can be purchased
online. Some, but not all, web sites have statements noting they cannot ship to certain
states (where the species is prohibited). A study by Maki ancl Galatowitsch (2003), "The
Movement of Invasive Aquatic Plants into Minnesota (USA) Through Horticultural
Trade", found that "Federal noxious weeds or Minnesota prol'ribited exotic species were
acquired 92% of the time they were ordered". Aquatic invasive species can be easily
obtained either online or at local pet stores and nurseries.
Very little is being done to educate the vendors and the publir: on the dangers of these
purchased plants and organisms. Additional educatic,n of vendors about AIS and the
dangers of releasing AIS to Hennepin County waters rnay help to reduce this pathway
of AIS infestations. The education should include how vendors can pass this information
on to their customers. There are some educational resourcer; available to help with this
task.
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specir;.s, Fortin Consulting, lnc.
Page 15
The national HabitattituderM program encourages consumers;to help avoid accidental or
intentional release of AIS by promoting simple actions when faced with an unwanted
aquatic plant or fish. These include:
.
.
.
.
.
Contact a retailer for proper handling advice or for possiblei returns.
Give/trade with another aquarist, pond owner or water ganjener.
Donate to a local aquarium society, school, or aquatic buslness.
Seal aquatic plants in plastic bags and dispose in the trash.
Contact a veterinarian or pet retailer for humane disposal of animals.
The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council has information abourt the HabitattituderM
program on their web site (
) for pet store owners.
Petco's web site states it uses the HabitattituderM program. -fhis was only visible at one
store where a plant purchased was put in a HabitattituderM bag. lt is not known if
these bags are still available for purchase. The national HabilattituderM web site is not
operational at this time.
Minnesota Sea Grant is a local partner and educational inforrnation iust recentlv
became available through their office in Duluth or online
). They offt:r plant tags, stakes, posters,
small cards, stickers, bookmarks, and fliers that could be disprlayed at nurseries. Most
are so targeted to
those that have
water gardens or
plant sellers and
not pet stores.
There is a
bookmark for
citizens that
includes
information on not
releasing fish and
other pets. Some
information is from
the HabitattituderM
program and some
is from Sea Grant.
Samples and smaller supplies are free. Larger amounts are aLvailable for a small fee.
They also sell an AIS display that could be rotated frorn nursery to nursery to help
educate the oublic.
(
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specie;s, Fortin Consultirt.rS, lnc.
Page 16
The DNR has a fact sheet, lnvasive Aquatic Plants, W'hat Evt>ry Plant Se//er Should
Know available on their web site. However, it was creerted in :2006 and is outdated.
An education effort targeted at nurseries and pet stores to help them know what plants
are invasive, and to encourage them and connect thern to resources to provide
information to their customers about AIS may help to prevent the accidental or
intentional release of AIS to Hennepin Countv and other waterrs.
References
Federal Noxious Weed List. (2015). United States Departmerrt of Agriculture.
Keep a Lookout for New Aquatic lnvasive Plants in thet Midwe>st. (2008). Midwest
lnvasive Plant Network.
Maki, K. and Galatowitsch, S. (2004) Movement of invasive aquatic plants into
Minnesota (USA) through horticultural trade. Biological Conservation 118(3): 389-396
lnvasive Aquatic Plants. What every aquatic plant seller should know.2006.
Department of Natural Resources.
[Vf
innesota
Minnesota lnvasive Species Laws. (2015). l/innesota Department of Natural
Resources.
ml
Minnesota Noxious Weeds. (2015). Minnesota Department oll Agriculture.
Minnesota Sea Grant. (2015). Aquatic invasive species publications.
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lrtvadve Specrr;s, l=ortin Consulting,
lnc.
Page 1,7
Appendices
A. List of Minnesota prohibited, regulated and early detection
species
B. Map and list of pet stores that carry live plants and invertebrates
C. Map and list of nurseries that carry water giarden plants
D. Inspection results for aquarium supply stores
E. Inspection results for water garden supply stores
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specles, Fortin Consulting,
lnc.
page 18
Appendix A. List of Minnesota prohibited, regulated, unregulated,
unregulated nonnative, and early detection target species
Prohibited Invasive Species
Certain invasive speciesthat can threaten natural resources and tl"reir use have been designated
as prohibited invasive species in Minnesota. lt is unlawful (a misdemeanor)to possess, import,
purchase, transport, or introduce these species except under a pglmit for disposal, control,
research, or education. The prohibited invasive species in I\/linnesota include the following, and
any hybrids, cultivars, or varieties of the species listed below:
Aquatic Plants
African oxygen weed (Logorosiphon mojor)
Aquarium watermoss or giant salvinia (Solvinia molesta)
Australian stonecrop (Crossula helmsii)
Brittle naiad (Noios minor)x
Cu rly-leaf pondweed (P oto mog eton cri spu s)*
Eurasian water milfoil (Myriophyllum spicotum)x
European frog-bit (Hydrochoris morsus-ronoe\
Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus)*
Hyd ri la (Hyd ri llo v e rtici ll ota)
lndian swampweed (Hygrophila polysperma)
Purple oosestrife (Lythrum salicorio, Lythrum virgatum, or any variety, hybrid, or cultivar
thereof)*
Water aloe or water soldiers (strotiotes oloides\
Water chestnut (Tropa notons)
I
f
Invertebrates
Faucet snail (Bithynio tentqculatol*
New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus ontipodarunt)
Quagga mussel (Dreisseno bugensis)
Red swamp crayfish (Procomborus clarkiil
Zebra mussel (Dreisseno polym orphalx
Fish
Amur sleeper (Perccottus glenii)
Bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)*
Black carp (Mylophoryngodon piceusl
Crucian carp (Carassius carassius)
Eurasian minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus)
European perch (Perco fluviatilisl
Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)*
Largescale silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys hormandil
Northern snakehead fish (Chonno orgus)
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Species, l=ortin Consultingtr,
lnc.
page 19
Oriental weatherfish (Misgurnus anguillicoudotusl
Prussian carp (Carassius gibelio)
Roach (Rutilus rutilusl
Round goby (Neog obius melanostomus)*
Rudd (Scordin i us e ryth rophth al m usl
Ruffe (Gymn ocephalus cernuus)*
Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus)*
Silver
ca
rp (Hypophthol michthys molitrix)*
Stone moroko (Pseudorasbora parvol
benose goby (P rote rorh i n us m a rm o ratus)*
Wels catfish (Siluris glanis)
Western mosq uitof ish (G a m b usi a affi nisl
White perch (Morone americonal*
Tu
Za
nde r (Stizoste dio n
Iu
ci o pe
rcal
Regulated Invasive Species
It is legalto possess, sell, buy, and transport regulated invasive species, butthey may not be
introduced into a free-living state, such as being released or planterd in public waters. The
regulated invasive species are:
Aquatic Plants
Brazilian waterweed (Egeria densa\*
Carolina fanwort or fanwort (Cobomba caroliniana)
Chinese water spinach (lpomoea aquatica)
Parrot feathe r (My ri ophyl I um a q uaticu m\*
Nonnative waterlilies (Nymphaeo spp,)or any variety, hybrid,
or cultivar thereof. Native Minnesota waterlilies are: Nymphaea ctdorata subsp.
odorata, N, leibergii, and N. odorata subsp. tuberosa
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassi pes)
Yellow iris or yellow flag (/ns pseudacorus\*
Invertebrates
Banded mystery snail (Viviporus georgianus\*
Chinese mystery snail, Japanese trap door snail (Cipangopoludino spp.)*
Rusty crayfi sh (Orconectes rusticus)*
Spiny waterflea (Bythotreph es lon g i ma n us)*
Fish
Alewife (Alosa pseudohareng us)*
Common carp, koi (Cyprinus carpio)*
Goldfish (Carassi us a u rotus)*
Rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordaxl*
Tilapia (Oneochromis, Sartheradon, and Tilapia spp.l
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specles, Fortin Consulting,
lnc.
page Z0
Unregulated nonnative species
Nonnative species not subject to regulation under Minnesota Statutes.
Fish: includes salmon,
species
Invertebrates
:
trout and subtropical, tropical, and saltwater fish, except anadromous
Subtropical, tropical, and saltwater invertebrates.
Unlisted nonnative species
Unlisted nonnative species are those that are not prohibited, regulated, or unregulated.
Several steps must occur before an unlisted nonnative species may be legally released into
free-living state:
'
.
.
a
the individual proposing to release the species must file an application and supporting
information with the Minnesota DNR
The DNR must conduct a thorough evaluation
The species must be designated into an appropriate classificiation
Additional " Early detection targets"
Pond water-starwort (Callitriche stognolis)
Water lettuce (Pistia strotiotes)*
Yellow floating heart (Nym phoides peltatal
*Have
been found in Minnesota waters
List Source: MnDNR web site 6122lL5
http://www.d nr.state.m
n.
us/invasives/laws. htm
I
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Species, Fortin Consulting,
lnc.
Page21.
Appendix B. Map and list of pet stores inspected
Note: map includes some sfores that were inspected ttut were either c/osed or did not
carry live plants.
CtWsh{rl
{}
o
Aquatic Plant Sellers
County Boundary
Municipal Boundaries
Watet Bodies
N
/,
5
{r) 1$ lnil 6ha.l 'AS lS" wdlr r1) /eIrescnLitL oI as lr rjontp:;ier]pss
Aautatt, irrJ rlr hrn nl€d 4lh N \larrani/ ot an/ krfi4 arH {ilI} r€ ml
slrLablc for kLlol nn{lnier I D or srr.ceyirV l\fl)oSjs Henotod Coir\,
6l,Eli nrl i* lat|6 ior ary ilnnrage hJLry Dalo8g resL,firr]g i(frr lr s rnsp
Tlrs rrap
or
Aquatic Invasive Plant Seller Inspeclions
Publication dale: 3l2DA1 5
Hennepin County Public, Works
Altornaie Patltways frtr Aquattc lnve*;ive lipecie.s, l.:ortin Consultinpl, lnc.
Page22
Hennepin County Pet stores carrying live plants and invertebrates
No. Business
Address 7
City
Petco
13691- Ridgedole Drive
Minnr-.tonka
Petco
710 West 66th Street
Richfield
s5423
3 Petco
7625 Jolly Lone
Broolllyn Park
55428
Petco
8020 Glen Lone
Eden Prairie
55344
8010 Wedgewood Lane
Maplc. Grove
55369
2
A
5 Petco
Detsmart
4P
55305
1L200 Proirie Lokes Dr
Eden Prairie
55344
7 Detsmort
LL200 Fountoins Dr North
8 aeEmort
L640 New Brighton Blvd
Maplc'Grove
Minnr:apolis
55413
9 Petsmort
55442
Petsmort
I'J. Petsmort
4190 Vinewood Lonet
L100 West 78th St
5640 Cedor Lake Rd
Plymouth
1C
Richfield
55423
St. Louis Park
55413
12 Aquotropics
3549 Douglos Drive
Crystal
55422
13 Seo Level Fish
8590 Excelsior Boulevord
Hopkins
55343
L4 A World
15L6 E. 66th Street
Minnr:apolis
55423
5355 Chicogo Avenue South
Minnr-'apolis
554r1
16 The Fish Guy & Pet Supply
Excelsior
55331
17 Nooh's Ark Fish
Excels;ior
55331
e
of
Fish
15 Aqualond
5623 Monitou Rood
& Pet Supply 40 Woter Street
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specieis, Fortin Consultin.q,
lnc.
55369
Page 23
Appendix G. Map and list of nurseries inspected
Nofe; map includes some stores that were inspected Ltut we <lid not find live plants.
Numbers correspond fo busrness on the list below.
lrc'Pl*rc!
|
"uo,n^
HXftrc!l
o
Water Garden Ptant Suppliers
County Boundary
MunicipalBoundaries
Water Bodies
Water Garden Plant Supplier Inspections
Publication date; 5/1 9/2015
Thrc il[+ (4 rslrrristErl "AS iS" tillr no relr6sntilld aB (l conu{€ten€s
q du4rey, {!) rE lurilirlpd wlh ro rftrEnV ol srf/ Xlr|l, and (n) H nul
srielrle lOr le08l, coOnesrirg rr srilvByinu pUrpNs llen|4{r COUnly
shill rd ba hble lot 3 try dsDacc, tqury q los ae rutng lrom lh6 mnp
Hennepin Gounty Public' Worl<s
Alternats Pathwaysl'r:r /\quutir: lnva:;ivt; Slp{,'oi€l;, l:r:rtin Conuilttngy, lnc.
Page24
Nurseries
No. Business
Address 1
ciw
L
Bachman's
770 Prairie Center Dr
tiden Prairie
55344
2
Bachman's
6010 Lyndale Ave.
lilinneapolis
55419
3
Bachman's
10050 6th Ave. No.
F
4
Fair's Floral and Nursery
Garden Patch
9340 Fair Way
l/laple Grove
ss369
23443 Smithtown Road
[ixcelsior
s5331
Plymouth
55441,
[]loomington
55431
5
S.
ztP
lymouth
55,441.
Hedberg Supply Landscape
6
& Masonry
1-205 Nathan Lane N
7
Home Depot
400
8
Home Depot
6701 Boone Ave North
tlrooklyn Park
55428
9
Home Depot
L3100 Valley View Rd
tiden Prairie
55344
10
Home Depot
15800 Grove Circle North
tt
55369
Home Depot
L520 New Brighton Blvd
l/laple Grove
lilinneapolis
12
Home Depot
L705 Annapolis Lane
F
ll_qn_e__?_s_p_el
6301Richfield Pkwy
Flichfield
55,423
5800 Cedar Lake Rd
Sit. Louis Park
55416
15
Home Depot
Lawn King, Inc.
7555 County Road 1L5
Corcoran
s5340
L6
Lowes
1120L Fountains Drive North
l/laple Grove
55369
t7
Lowes
3205 Vicksburg Lane North
F
18
Malmborg's Garden Center
& Greenhouse
5120 Lilac Drive Nofth
Elrooklyn Center
55,429
19
Malm borg's Ga rden Center
& Greenhouse
20045 County Road 81
Osseo
55311
20
Menards
12600 Plaza Drive
tiden Prairie
55344
2t
Menards
6800 Wayzata Blvd.
Golden Valley
55,426
22
Menards
15500 96th Ave. N.
l/laple Grove
5531.1.
23
770L Nicollet Ave.
Flichfield
55,423
24
Menards
Natural Shore Technologies
5300 Hwy L2
It/laple Plain
55359
25
Otten Bros. Garden Center
& Landscaping
2350 Wayzata Boulevard
L.ong Lake
55356
26
Plantique Garden Center
5L52 Hiawatha Avenue
l/linneapolis
55,4L7
27
Tangletown Gardens
5353 Nicollet Avenue South
l/linneapolis
55419
28
Wagners
2100 W Old Shakopee Road
E!loomington
55431
29
Wagners
6024 Penn Ave
It/lin
neapolis
55419
30
Walmart
945L Dunkirk Ln
13
1.4
w 79th st
S
N
lymouth
lymouth
lt/laple Grove
Alternate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Species, Fortin Consulting,
lnc.
554L3
5544L
55447
55311
Page 25
Appendix D. Inspection results for pet stores
Appendix D is attached as a separate Excelworkbook
Appendix E. Inspection results for water garden supply stores
Appendix E is attached as a separate Excelworkbook
Altemate Pathways for Aquatic lnvasive Specles, Fortin Consulting,
lnc.
page 26