Invasive species can displace native species, degrade habitat and the quality of outdoor recreation, harm public and private property, threaten human health and safety, and impact recreation-based economies.

Zebra mussels can alter aquatic food chains by displacing native species. They can clog drinking water intake pipes located in the lakes and increase water supply maintenance and costs. Their empty shells can accumulate and cover shorelines and be a hazard for walking with bare feet. Silver carp can be dangerous to boaters. Boat noise triggers their nervous system, causing them to jump high out of the water and potentially hit water skiers or boat passengers. Eurasian watermilfoil, an aquatic plant, can grow so aggressively it forms thick mats that can entangle boat props.