Minnesota's lakes and streams are increasingly threatened by aquatic invasive species (AIS) and we have few ways to address these threats. In 2012, the Minnesota legislature appropriated funds to create an Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative Research Center at the University of Minnesota, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Natural Resources (DNR).

The Center's mission is to develop research-based solutions that can reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species in Minnesota by preventing spread, controlling populations, and managing ecosystems; and to advance knowledge to inspire action by others. MAISRC's vision is to be a vibrant and durable research enterprise that advances the knowledge and builds the capacity that Minnesota needs in order to reduce the impacts of aquatic invasive species on our cherished lakes, rivers, and wetlands.