The Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) helps to protect our state's lakes and ponds through widespread, volunteer citizen participation in the gathering and dissemination of credible scientific information pertaining to lake health. We train and provide technical support to more than 1,300 lake monitors. These volunteers safeguard the health of more than 600 Maine lakes through monitoring water quality on a regular basis, assessing watershed health and function, and by screening lakes for invasive aquatic plants and animals. LSM volunteers also benefit their local lakes by playing key stewardship and leadership roles in their communities. Many lakes lack the volunteer base needed to monitor and protect against aquatic invasive species. To address this need, Lake Stewards of Maine assembled a dedicated team of volunteer invasive plant patrollers (IPP) ready to travel to lakes that require additional support. We are actively supporting lakes in underserved, remote parts of the state by conducting invasive plant surveys and hosting workshops to engage and strengthen local stewardship efforts. In this way, we are addressing environmental justice for rural communities. By focusing efforts on historically under-monitored areas and providing direct support to lakes facing invasive species threats, LSM aims to improve statewide monitoring coverage, enhance early detection and response efforts, and engage a broader demographic in protecting Maine’s lakes.