New Jersey Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan

New Jersey Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Updates

In New Jersey, over 100 species of AIS (Aquatic Invasive Species) have been identified and categorized in various stages of threat, ranging from the watch list to well-established. They often outcompete native species for resources, alter habitats at the expense of native flora and fauna, and can detrimentally affect recreational activities such as fishing and boating. They even have adverse impacts on local economies tied to tourism and outdoor activities.

Did You Know?

Invasive species such as the Northern Snakehead and Blue Catfish eat everything from endangered species, forage species, and popular game species, as well as outcompete them for food, habitat, and spawning grounds. These impacts often go unnoticed by anglers.

New Jersey Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan (NJAISMP)

The NJAISMP was prepared in partnership with a variety of NJ state agencies and environmental stakeholders committed to invasive species management, with input from the public. The purpose of this plan was to provide the framework to combine existing initiatives, identify partner agencies that can leverage resources and expertise, and centralize the collection of data on the distribution and occurrence of AIS. In November 2024, NJDEP Fish & Wildlife took a significant step toward achieving the objectives of the NJAISMP by appointing an AIS Coordinator to oversee and facilitate the implementation of the plan’s key initiatives. For more information, contact AIS Biologist Samantha MacQuesten.

Did You Know?

Invasive plants can be accidentally transported, so always remove vegetation from your boats and trailers at the end of your trip.

AIS Reporting Form

The first order of business was to develop a streamlined reporting form and database to help accurately track, monitor, and prevent the further spread of AIS. In collaboration with GIS Specialists from NJDEP Fish & Wildlife’s Office of Information Systems, the AIS Reporting Form was created for both public and professional use. This form marks an exciting and important milestone in launching the New Jersey AIS Program and serves as a critical tool for early detection and guiding appropriate responses to reported sightings.

Scan the QR Code to open the AIS Reporting Form.

The AIS Reporting Form was officially launched on June 18, 2025. A total of 128 public reports, spanning 18 counties and 29 species, were received from June 18 to October 14. Additionally, 168 reports covering 17 species were received from other Bureaus within NJDEP. At the time of publication, the database contains 295 reports, 34 species, and 721 individual specimens.

Potentially Dangerous Fish Regulation

In New Jersey, the term Potentially Dangerous Fish is used with regulatory purpose and indicates an elevated threat level of select invasive species. The possession or release of live, potentially dangerous fish is strictly prohibited. There are currently 14 species or groups of species of Potentially Dangerous Fish listed in the NJ Fish Code. These species include Asian Swamp Eel, Bighead, Grass (diploid), and Silver Carp, Blue Catfish, Brook Stickleback, Flathead Catfish, Freshwater Drum, Green Sunfish, Northern Snakehead, Oriental Weatherfish, Round Goby, Warmouth, and all black bass, except for Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass.

Anglers MUST destroy these species if encountered while fishing and should submit a report using the online AIS Reporting Form.

In addition to Freshwater Drum being added to the Potentially Dangerous Species List, the 2026 Fish Code now allows for the harvest of Blue Catfish with a bow and arrow, as well as all other catfish species.

Impacts on Native Species

In 2025, the conservation status of 11 native fish species was elevated due to concerns for their sustainability. Invasive species threaten New Jersey’s highly valued native species, causing irreversible damage to habitats, contributing to species extinction. Prevention of the spread of AIS is most important in pristine habitats that are disconnected from the Delaware River, such as the Pinelands and the headwaters of many watersheds.

Next Steps

It is important to shine a light on the need for increased efforts of invasive species control in our state. The battle against these invaders requires ongoing vigilance, cooperation from professionals and the public, and continued research and innovation. Protecting our aquatic habitats and native species is not just an environmental responsibility but also a necessity for all New Jersey residents.

With the successful completion of the initial steps to launch New Jersey’s new Aquatic Invasive Species Program, we can now shift our focus to the next phase. NJDEP Fish & Wildlife will seek funding to support the program’s long-term sustainability and enable rapid response efforts as new situations arise. Specialized working groups will be established to ensure the timely implementation of key action items from the NJAISMP and to foster collaboration with state, federal and non-governmental organization partners. We look forward to what comes next as we look to grow this program and save our ecosystems from further invasion.