As the warming weather beckons outdoor enthusiasts to their favorite lake or river, Kansans should remember that they play a critical role in helping stop aquatic invaders that threaten lakes and rivers in Kansas and many other states. Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) are animals and plants not native to Kansas that can threaten lake and river ecology, harm native or desirable species, and interfere with our economy. They often hitchhike on the boats and equipment used by unsuspecting people who may unknowingly transport them to a previously uninfested body of water.