Creativity and science merge at Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference

LI YAN TAN, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION, BA '25

At the recent Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference (UMISC) in Duluth, a CFANS student and two alumni took center stage, combining creativity and science to tackle critical environmental issues. Their efforts didn’t just highlight the importance of freshwater management but also earned well-deserved recognition. 

For the second time, the conference included an art show. Titled Art as a Voice for Science, the show provided a unique opportunity to merge creativity and research. It encouraged conversations about invasive species management while showcasing the talent and dedication of the CFANS community.

Communicating science: Molly Tilsen’s award-winning piece

Master’s student Molly Tilsen, a graduate research assistant with the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) and a student in the Water Resources Science (WRS) program, was honored with the People’s Choice Award for “Best Communication of Science.” Her interactive art piece, Land of 10,000 Links, captivated attendees by illustrating how human activity connects Minnesota’s lakes and how that connectivity can spread aquatic invasive species (AIS).

Reflecting on her project, Molly shared: “Land of 10,000 Links is an interactive, live network map demonstrating a network of lakes connected among the attendees of UMISC & MAISRC Research & Management Showcase 2024. Participants provided their two favorite lakes, which were marked with a pin (red if infested with any AIS, clear if not), and connected by yarn. The result is a network that highlights potential patterns in lake connectivity, demonstrating how limited data can still give us an impression of the patterns of flow happening in a system that is highly connected.”

Molly’s work connects to the broader AIS Explorer project, a public dashboard developed by MAISRC to guide AIS prevention efforts. The tool uses millions of data points and advanced modeling to predict risks and optimize watercraft inspections. Her analog representation of the tool brought its concepts to life in a more accessible and engaging way for conference attendees.

Celebrating alumni excellence

CFANS alum Adam Frankiewicz also earned recognition, winning the People’s Choice Award for “Overall Pick” with his piece, Spiny Water Flea. Meanwhile, fellow WRS alum Nichole Angell played an essential role as the art show coordinator, helping to make the event a success.

Congratulations to Molly, Adam, and Nichole for their inspiring work! Their efforts not only highlight the innovative spirit of CFANS but also demonstrate how art and science can come together to drive meaningful change in freshwater sustainability.