It has become apparent that aquatic invasive and nuisance species do have significant negative impacts on indigenous communities and their cultural resources and traditional practices and could even lead to impacts on treaty reserved rights and access to traditional homelands that are being protected for future generations. The involvement of indigenous communities and the inclusion of traditional ecological knowledge systems are imperative in the fight against aquatic invasive and nuisance species. These knowledge systems were gained from many years of extensive observations and meaningful interactions throughout traditional homelands and gaining a true understanding of the relationships and balances between plant and animal species and how they support and rely on one another. Traditional Ecological Knowledge Systems can be used to create more effective public educational outreach, create or enhance programs to prevent invasive and nuisance species introductions, and enhance early detection protocols and rapid response plans. Once established, aquatic invasive and nuisance species are very difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate. The Nez Perce Tribe Department of Fisheries Resources Management (DFRM) formed the Aquatic Invasive & Nuisance Species (AINS) Program in the fall of 2021 to address the growing concerns of aquatic invasive and nuisance species introductions, impacts, and spread throughout the usual and accustomed homelands of the NiMiiPuu and are dedicated to protecting the NiMiiPuu way of life.