The State of Minnesota's Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) prevention aid for 2026 has been allocated at the full formula but has been cut by 50% starting in 2027. The aid is distributed to counties each year to prevent the introduction of AIS and limit its spread. While this may impact the county's ability to support community led projects in future years and we are here to answer any questions you have as the situation evolves. The county allocated $78,000 of the county's 2026 AIS budget (funded with prevention aid) to continue supporting community-led prevention efforts with AIS Grants. Those eligible to apply for AIS Grants included community organizations, townships, watershed organizations, lake associations, consultants' firms, and county departments. Meeker County released the 2026 Request for Proposals, which includes content requirements, deadlines, grant terms, and more November 14th 2025. Final Applications close March 10th 2026.
AIS projects may include but are not limited to community events and education about AIS, leadership programs for young people or underserved communities, art or media projects depicting AIS prevention and management techniques, or in-lake treatments to control AIS.
Contact the AIS Coordinator with any questions:
Ariana Richardson
AIS Coordinator
Email: ariana.richardson@co.meeker.mn.us
Phone: 320-221-0614