Pine County adopts 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species plan, sets $172,719 budget

The Pine County Board of Commissioners on March 17 adopted Resolution 2026-12 to approve the county's 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) plan and its budget. County Administrator Kelly Schroeder told the board the county will receive $118,002 in AIS grant funding for 2026, and has $60,924.76 unspent from prior years, leaving $178,926.76 available; the compiled requests total $172,719.47, leaving $6,207.29 for contingencies or rollover.

Why it matters: AIS programs fund boat inspections, outreach and control work that county and local lake associations use to limit the spread of invasive aquatic plants and animals. Schroeder told commissioners the county expects roughly 50% less AIS funding in 2027, which could reduce inspections or other planned activities absent new local funding or grant adjustments.

What the board decided: Commissioner Matt Ludwig moved to adopt Resolution 2026-12; Commissioner Steve Hallan seconded. The motion passed 5-0 on a roll-call vote. The resolution formally adopts the 2026 plan and the budgeted allocation of $172,719.47.

Context and details: The adopted plan was compiled from requests submitted by local groups and county departments. Schroeder provided the line-item total and the available funding balance at the meeting; the board did not identify any additional projects beyond those in the submitted plan. Commissioners did not attach a new local funding commitment at the meeting to offset the anticipated 2027 reduction in state AIS funds.

Next steps: The county will implement the activities in the adopted plan during 2026 under the oversight of county staff and participating partners; the board will revisit funding or program changes if state funding levels change.