The Great Lakes “Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz,”is a binational, multi-agency effort aimed at raising public awareness and promoting prevention. The “Blitz” takes place June 29 through July 12, 2026 in Pennsylvania and other Great Lakes states in the U.S. and Canada.
This initiative brings together volunteers, state agencies, lake associations, and watercraft inspectors to educate boaters and anglers about aquatic invasive species (AIS) and ways to prevent their spread. In 2025, approximately more than 125,000 boat inspections were held, and more than 130,000 people learned about AIS.
Your organization does not need to be located in the Great Lakes watershed to take part in this regional effort. Participation is free, and educational supplies, trainings, and outreach materials are provided to support volunteers and local events.
If you’re considering planning an AIS Landing Blitz activity, or want to learn more, reach out to Pennsylvania Sea Grant’s Extension Leader, Sara Stahlman at sstahlman@psu.edu.
Pennsylvania Sea Grant has developed numerous fact sheets to help make identification of invasive species easier, and tip sheets for prevention and awareness related to specific activities, like boating. Check out the full offering, or download the ‘boater tip sheet‘ and ‘non-motorized boater tip sheet.’
Pennsylvania Partners in the ‘Blitz” include Crawford County Conservation District, PA DCNR, PA Fish & Boat Commission, Pike and Wayne County Conservation Districts, Shenango River Watchers.
Details about the basin-wide landing blitz are available online through the Great Lakes Commission.
Click on the map for locations and details.
