Various aquatic invasive species control efforts have been implemented in Vermont, and many are ongoing. VTDEC permits many AIS control actions, and is directly involved in the implementation of others. Local governments, watershed and lake associations, and other individuals are also involved in a myriad of control efforts around the state.
With over 800 lakes and ponds throughout Vermont, and 100 of those infested with aquatic invasive species, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VTDEC) staff annually monitor and survey priority lakes and ponds along with aquatic invasive species (AIS) considered a severe threat. During the growing season, VTDEC staff routinely survey and monitor Vermont waters to:
There are many ongoing programs in Vermont aimed at curbing the spread of invasive species and preventing new infestations. These initiatives are supported by Vermont DEC and often involve participation from landowners, watershed associations, and other interested volunteers.
Lake Encroachment Permits (LEP) are issued under 29 V.S.A Chapter 11 (Management of Lakes and Ponds), which regulates Encroachment in public waters. The goals of this program are to minimize the encroachment on public waters as well as ensure that projects do not adversely affect the public good and are consistent with the Public Trust Doctrine.
The Vermont Lay Monitoring Program (LMP) trains and equips volunteers (or Lay Monitors) 
to conduct periodic lake water quality sampling from their boat using quality-assured methods. Since the program's inception in 1979, the principal goals have remained the same:
The Vermont Lay Monitoring Program is the volunteer statewide, lake monitoring program that has sampled more than 80 inland lakes and 30 stations on Lake Champlain since 1979. For more information, visit the Lay Monitoring page.
Vermont has over 800 lakes, with 220 of them larger than 20 acres in size. The Lake Score Card currently includes information for 823 Vermont lakes, including all those over 20 acres in size.
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