The goal of the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program is to protect Whatcom County's natural resources, infrastructure, recreation, wildlife, and economy from the impacts of aquatic invasive species by:

Quagga and zebra mussels came to North America in the ballast tanks and on the anchor chains of large, transoceanic ships that entered the Great Lakes.

Once an aquatic invasive species becomes established in a waterbody, it becomes increasingly difficult and costly to manage the population.

No aquatic invasive plants have been found to be growing in Lake Whatcom.

Aquatic invasive species can cause long-term taste and odor issues in drinking water supplies.

The goal of decontamination is to kill and remove all evidence of aquatic invasive species using high-pressure, hot water.