Online Invasive Species Resources

Expand your knowledge. Protect our waters. Help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic invasive species threaten California's lakes, rivers, harbors, coastlines, recreation, wildlife, and local economies. This resource hub gives riders, boaters, anglers, divers, and outdoor explorers trusted tools to learn, identify, prevent, and report invasive species.
Global & National Resources

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service — Invasive Species

Learn about invasive species, conservation programs, and prevention efforts across the United States.

Open Resource

Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Explore global biodiversity records and species tracking data.

Open Resource

Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers

Learn how boaters and water users can stop aquatic invasive species from spreading.

Open Resource

Habitattitude

Learn how to prevent invasive species releases from aquariums, ponds, and water gardens.

Open Resource
Educational Videos

Don't Move A Mussel

Educational video about invasive mussels and prevention.

Open Resource

Inspection & Decontamination

Video showing inspection and decontamination practices for watercraft.

Open Resource
Research & Tracking

USGS Non-Indigenous Aquatic Species Database

Track aquatic invasive species sightings, maps, and scientific records.

Open Resource

Smithsonian NEMESIS Marine Species Database

Marine invasive species database and research tool.

Open Resource

NOAA Caulerpa Species — West Coast

Learn about invasive Caulerpa algae affecting West Coast waters.

Open Resource

The Exotics Guide

Field guide for identifying invasive marine and aquatic species.

Open Resource

iNaturalist

Report wildlife observations and help with citizen science.

Open Resource
Free Apps

EDDMapS

Free mapping and reporting tool for invasive species sightings.

Open Resource

Aqua Invaders

Interactive app for learning about aquatic invasive species.

Open Resource
California Resources

Calflora

California plant database with native and invasive plant information.

Open Resource

California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways

California boating safety, education, and aquatic invasive species prevention resources.

Open Resource

Before You Leave Any Waterway

Inspect your PWC, boat, trailer, anchor, ropes, fishing gear, and dive equipment.
Remove plants, mud, shells, and debris.
Drain bilge, ballast tanks, live wells, coolers, and compartments.
Dry all gear before entering another waterway.
Report anything unusual.

Why This Matters

One contaminated watercraft can move invasive species from one lake, harbor, river, or coastline to another. Prevention protects wildlife, keeps waterways open, reduces future restrictions, and helps responsible riders build trust with local agencies.

Protect the Water. Protect the Ride.

Trails to Tides is building a safer, more educated PWC and boating community through awareness, prevention, and responsible access.

Invasive Species