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County approves staffing agreement for DNR-trained aquatic invasive species inspectors using $114,900 in aid
Summary
The board authorized a staffing agreement with a temporary firm to provide DNR-trained AIS watercraft inspectors for the 2026 season, supported by $114,900 in AIS aid; staff said inspectors will operate at boat launches and can support decontamination work.
Koochiching County voted March 10 to enter a staffing agreement with Always Their Staffing to supply DNR-trained aquatic invasive species (AIS) watercraft inspectors for the 2026 season.
Staff told the board the county expects $114,900 in AIS aid for 2026 and plans to use part of those funds to operate inspection and decontamination programs at county boat launches. The agreement includes a 14-day written-notice termination clause and mirrors similar arrangements the county has used in past seasons, staff said.
The county will direct inspectors to conduct inspections at launches and to refer decontamination needs to appropriate agencies; staff noted enforcement or escalation would involve state staff if required.
The board approved moving forward with the staffing arrangement by motion. Staff said the county has been conservative in using AIS funds and will adjust operations if state aid levels change next year.
