What is a common method used by AIS inspectors to survey water bodies?

Conducting visual inspections for invasive species is a common method used by AIS inspectors to survey water bodies because it allows for immediate identification of potentially harmful organisms. This method involves systematically examining the water body, including sediment, vegetation, and structures, for any signs of invasive aquatic species. Early detection through visual inspections is crucial in preventing the spread of invasive species, which can have detrimental effects on local ecosystems, native species, and overall water quality.

Other methods, such as sampling water temperature or measuring water clarity, can provide valuable data about the environmental conditions of a water body, but they may not directly indicate the presence of invasive species. Surveying local fauna helps in understanding the biodiversity of an area, but it does not specifically target the identification of invasive species, which is the primary focus of AIS inspections. Thus, while all the methods are relevant to aquatic assessments, the visual inspection specifically addresses the critical need for detecting invasive species.