A closer look at web tools and sites that boost research and empower Great Lakes communities to secure a healthy environment and economy.
Hundreds of invasive species are on the loose in U.S. waters wreaking havoc on habitats, recreation, and economies. Fortunately, a team of student detectives are on the case and ready to book these “bad guys” with help from Nab the Aquatic Invader!
This educational website turns students grades 4-10 into PIs hot on the trail of some of the worst invaders in their region. After brushing up on detailed profiles complete with interrogation recordings, students take part in ongoing investigations led by veteran gumshoes. Whether they join as junior detectives or super sleuths, students learn to ID the suspects, expose the damage they cause, and stop invaders before they strike again.
The site also includes a teacher Top Desk Administrator with example projects that give students a chance to share what they’ve learned with their communities. Along with detailed summary reports, these examples make it easy for teachers to plan and implement successful AIS stewardship projects in their own classroom.
But you don’t have to go online to crack a case. A suite of card games and posters inspired by the website are also available. Students and adults alike can even join the hunt for the most wanted AIS at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in D.C. and at Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers throughout the country.
Nab the Aquatic Invader! was created by IISG and Sea Grant programs in New York, Louisiana, Connecticut, and Oregon.
Sea Grant Illinois-Indiana
Recent News
- Freshwater jellyfish may increase in numbers as Illinois and Indiana waters continue to warm
- Tomas Höök signing off as Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant director this summer
- Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant welcomes Stuart Carlton as the program’s new director
- Four Illinois and Indiana educators will set sail on Lake Michigan aboard EPA’s research ship
- Join IISG as a new pollution prevention outreach assistant
IISG Instagram
🌊 Making Waves in Education
Calling all K–12 educators — formal and non-formal! Stay connected to the Great Lakes and inspired in your teaching with our educator-focused newsletter.
📬 Why Subscribe?
✅ Discover teaching resources and professional development opportunities
✅ Connect with Sea Grant partners and community efforts
✅ Bring Great Lakes science and stewardship into your classroom or program
🗓️ Published quarterly — with occasional bonus issues when exciting events or new content arise!
💡 Whether you’re in a classroom, nature center, or museum, this newsletter helps you make waves in education.
👉 Sign up now: https://iiseagrant.org/education/subscribe-to-education-newsletter/
#TeachingTuesday
#GreatLakesEducation
Looking for a fun, hands-on way to engage your students this year? Check out our new curriculum about crayfish and freshwater ecosystems! This curriculum teaches students about the importance of native crayfish, the threats posted by invasive species, and the health of Great Lakes ecosystems. It includes 9 ready-to-use lesson plans, with one featuring our participatory science activity! All lessons are aligned with NGSS, CCSS, and CGLL Principles.
Download the curriculum and start exploring at InvasiveCrayfish.org/Crayfish-Curriculum
#CrayWeek #Crayfish #FreshwaterEcosystems #Curriculum #BackToSchool
When participating in a crayfish participatory science activity, be sure to snap plenty of photos of any crayfish you catch or observe. Not only is it a great way to capture the fun and excitement of the day, but it also helps document the species present. To ensure accurate identification by scientists, it’s important to provide clear photos from multiple angles. Dorsal (top), lateral (side), and ventral (underside) views of the crayfish should always be photographed.
To learn more about the specific features to highlight in your photos visit the link in bio or
InvasiveCrayfish.org/Management/#Community
Who says “Back to School” means back indoors? While the weather is still warm, take your students on an outdoor science adventure by exploring crayfish in your local waterways.
The Invasive Crayfish Collaborative invites grades 2-12 educators to take part in a hands-on participatory science activity. By catching, identifying, and reporting crayfish species in your area, students contribute valuable data that helps scientists better understand where native and invasive crayfish live.
Check out what other educators have found and get involved: inaturalist.org/projects/great-lakes-crayfish
