Updated in 2022! Aquatic invasive species (AIS) pose serious threats to Michigan’s freshwater resources, disrupting ecosystems, local economies and recreational opportunities. These harmful invasives can “hitchhike” on paddling gear from one water body to another. You can help fight aquatic invasive species by cleaning your equipment and learning to report invasives when you see them. The Michigan Water Trails Manual now has an entire chapter dedicated to fighting invasive species.

The manual is intended to provide local officials, water advocacy organizations, paddlers and visionary citizens with the resources and tools to develop a sustainable water trail in their community. Given the rich diversity of paddling experiences in Michigan, each water trail planning effort will be unique. This manual will help you develop a water trail that is tailored to your community’s capacity, resources and needs.

Download the Michigan Water Trails Manual (2nd Edition, Oct. 2021).