Group to advise DNR on AIS Program

Contributed photo
Otter Tail County Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist Spencer McGrew was recently appointed to serve on a statewide aquatic invasive species advisory committee.

Otter Tail County has announced that Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Commissioner Sarah Strommen has appointed Spencer McGrew, Otter Tail County Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Specialist, will serve on the Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee. The Committee is comprised of 15 stakeholders who are responsible for advising the Minnesota DNR on its AIS Program.

As a member of the advisory committee, McGrew will collaborate with others to offer recommendations for improving the DNR’s AIS programs. 

“Getting on the committee has been a goal I’ve been working on for several years, so it feels good to achieve it,” said McGrew. “We’ve got a lot to share in Otter Tail County that would benefit a statewide audience.”

McGrew brings a breadth of experience to the committee. For the past eight years, McGrew has led a team of watercraft inspectors who, last year alone, performed 11,940 watercraft inspections in the county. He serves on the Otter Tail County AIS Task Force and collaborates with over 53 businesses and 24 local government entities. McGrew also developed innovative solutions and services. He has instituted a dock and lift registry, added 16 I-LIDS camera systems at public access areas, and worked to install a groundwater-supplied self-service watercraft rinse station near Little Pine Lake.

“We encourage employees to participate in statewide organizations to gain knowledge and effect change,” shared Chris LeClair, Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Director. “This is a great opportunity for Spencer not only to learn but also share the innovations and success of the AIS program in Otter Tail County. His appointment to the committee is a testament to the respect Otter Tail County’s AIS program has state-wide.”

Those who are interested in AIS programming for your classroom or organization, please contact Spencer McGrew at smcgrew@ottertailcounty.gov or call (218) 998-8095.