Aquatic Plant Mapping

Aquatic plants are a natural and essential part of a lake. This diverse community of species forms an underwater forest that creates essential fish habitat, improves water quality, and can reduce shoreline erosion.

Mapping what plant species are where and in what abundance is critical to understanding the shallow zone of a lake. Check out our Aquatic Plant Mapping fact sheet to learn more.

Volunteers will need a canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or motor boat.

Details

• Cost to enroll:

  • First year ($250):  Includes a visit to your lake from MiCorps staff

  • Subsequent Years ($30):  For experienced volunteers continuing or repeating their Aquatic Plant Mapping efforts only. 

• Enrollment deadline: May 10, 2025

• Equipment requirements: A sampling rake (built by the volunteer, sampling rake assembly instructions can be found here)

• Time commitment: Volunteers can take as long as they need within one summer to conduct Aquatic Plant Mapping

• Training requirement: Training for this parameter is required. See training events here and watch the recorded phosphorus training videos below.

How do I conduct Aquatic Plant Mapping?

• Field Data Form

• Summary Data Form

• Aquatic Plant Mapping Information and Procedure (MSU Extension WQ55)

• Visit the Training Page for in-person and virtual training events.

Additional information

• Sampling Rake Assembly Instructions

• Example Plant Density Calculation

• Aquatic Plant Fact Sheet

• Laminate for ID and Photographs

Aquatic Plant Identification