New Local Program Designed to Help Maintain Boat Launches, Identify Aquatic Invasive Species
A new program is being rolled out this summer aimed to improve and protect the lakes and rivers in the Fox-Wolf Basin. The Fox-Wolf Adopt-a-Launch Program engages community members through volunteer efforts at boat launches.
Fox-Wolf Adopt-a-Launch works to:
- Identify new introductions of aquatic invasive species.
- Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plant and debris at launch sites.
- Improve and protect habitat and water quality by removing garbage.
- Help ensure recreational boating facilities are maintained by reporting issues.
- Develop a sense of pride and ownership for the Lakes among participants.
To kick-off this program, adopt-a-launch sites around the Winnebago Lakes will become available later this year with plans to eventually expand to other lakes and rivers in the future.
Why is this needed?
Aquatic invasive species can harm our economy, environment, or human health. Volunteers can help protect our lakes by looking for newly introduced aquatic invasive 
species at boat launches. If an invasive species is found before it becomes established, there is a higher likelihood of being able to remove that species from the lake. In addition, keeping the boat launches cleared of plants, garbage, and other debris reduces the chance that boats will spread aquatic invasive species to other lakes and helps keep our lakes clean.
What do Adopt-a-Launch volunteers do?
Each volunteer or group of volunteers adopts a boat landing by choosing a site from a list provided by the Fox-Wolf AIS Program. Volunteers visit their boat launch at least three times a year between April 1 and November 1. Safety is emphasized for all volunteers. 
Each time volunteers visit their boat launch, they will:
- Look for aquatic invasive species at boat launches
- Remove plants from boat launch area
- Remove litter around boat launches.
- Report any issues with the boat launch or surrounding areas
All volunteers will be trained on all expected tasks and how to report and document aquatic invasive species, launch issues, etc.
Who can Adopt-a-Launch?
Any individual or group can adopt-a-launch. This includes but is not limited to: individuals, families, boy/girl scout groups, conservation clubs, angling clubs, boating clubs, yacht clubs, Boys and Girls Club groups, etc. Each group must provide one adult supervisor for every five or six volunteers*. It’s a great, fun way to get involved for everyone!
*Volunteers under the age of 14 with the written consent of a parent/guardian and under supervision of a responsible adult.
What does the Fox-Wolf AIS Program provide?
The Program trains volunteers and provides trash bags, safety vests, materials to search for aquatic invasive species, and a sign at the boat launch that acknowledges your group’s efforts. There is no charge for groups to participate in the Adopt-a-Launch Program.
In addition to training volunteers and supplying materials, the Program will promote the work of volunteers on social media, press releases, and our website. The Adopt-a-Launch Coordinator will also check in with volunteers periodically to help determine if more materials are needed and address any issues/concerns.
How can my group apply?
Interested groups can contact:
Chris Acy, AIS Coordinator
Covering Brown, Calumet, Fond du Lac, Outagamie, and Winnebago Counties
Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance
chris@fwwa.org OR 920-460-3674
Chris can help volunteers choose a boat launch that has been pre-approved by the launch owner. Once a launch has been chosen, volunteers will fill out the Adopt-a-Launch application form. Boat launches are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Once your application is signed 
and approved, all volunteers will need to review the safety rules included with the completed application. Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance will provide all required safety gear, trash bags, etc. and provide training. Launches are considered adopted by the assigned volunteer/group until the Winnebago Waterways Program receives a “Notice of Abandonment” (written notice that you/your group has decided to cease its involvement in the Adopt-A-Launch Program). This boat launch will then be available to others wishing to joining the Adopt-a-Launch Program.
While we are working on starting this Program, we want you and all interested individuals to contact Chris the AIS Coordinator! Help us get the Program off to a great start!
Interested in contributing and helping maintain the Adopt-a-Launch Program?
Donations are accepted and appreciated!
The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance staff continue to work to protect and restore our water resources during these difficult times. While we have transitioned to working remotely, we are still conducting meetings (remotely, of course), implementing projects, and planning for the summer. Stay safe!
Questions? Comments? Contact Chris Acy, the AIS Coordinator covering Brown, Outagamie, Fond du Lac, Calumet, and Winnebago Counties at (920) 460-3674 or chris@fwwa.org!
Follow the Fox Wolf Watershed Alliance’s Winnebago Waterways Program on our Winnebago Waterways Facebook page or @WinnWaterways on Twitter! You can also sign-up for email updates at WinnebagoWaterways.org.
Winnebago Waterways is a Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance program. The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance is an independent nonprofit organization that identifies and advocates effective policies and actions that protect, restore, and sustain water resources in the Fox-Wolf River Basin.
