Enjoy the latest edition of the AIS News from PSMFC.
_____________________________________________________
Tammy Davis / Invasive Species Program Coordinator
ADF&G /P.O. Box 115526 / Juneau, AK 99811-5526
P: (907) 465-6183 / C: (907) 209-2492
Be part of the solution… Report Invasive Species:
1-877-INVASIV
Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2016 3:00 PM
To: 'crbans@psmfc.org'
Subject: AIS News 9/13/16
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES NEWS
9/13/16
DREISSENID MUSSELS
NE: Zebra mussel populations in Lewis and Clark Lake and
Missouri River increasing (8/11/16)<http://www.omaha.com/outdoors/zebra-mussel-populations-in-lewis-and-clark-lake-and-missouri/article_20c28492-6013-11e6-8338-532d31e61675.html>
LINCOLN — Adult zebra mussels are established along the
entire length of the Missouri River in Nebraska, according to recent field
inspections conducted by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission aquatic invasive
species technicians…..
Western Mussel Discoveries/Expansion
MO: Invasive zebra mussels now widespread at Truman Lake
(8/19/16)<http://mdc.mo.gov/newsroom/invasive-zebra-mussels-now-widespread-truman-lake>
Zebra mussels confirmed in 5 Minnesota lakes (8/10/16)<http://news.dnr.state.mn.us/2016/08/10/zebra-mussels-confirmed-in-5-minnesota-lakes/>
MB: Zebra mussels multiplying in Lake Winnipeg, now found
on shorelines (8/16/16)<http://globalnews.ca/news/2885661/zebra-mussels-multiplying-in-lake-winnipeg-now-found-on-shorelines/>
Zebra mussels confirmed in 3 Minnesota lakes
(8/18/16)<http://news.dnr.state.mn.us/2016/08/18/zebra-mussels-confirmed-in-3-minnesota-lakes/>
MN: Zebra mussels confirmed on Lake Minnewashta in Carver
County (8/25/16)<http://news.dnr.state.mn.us/2016/08/25/zebra-mussels-confirmed-on-lake-minnewashta-in-carver-county/>
TX: Zebra Mussels Discovered in Stillhouse Hollow
Reservoir (8/12/16)<http://tpwd.texas.gov/newsmedia/releases/?req=20160812a>
KN: Zebra Mussels found in Cedar Bluff Reservoir
(8/26/16)<https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiG-ZXFyd_OAhUFSyYKHcynAZ0QqQIIHzAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fksn.com%2F2016%2F08%2F26%2Fzebra-mussels-found-in-cedar-bluff-reservoir%2F&usg=AFQjCNHFX_snV0UwNQcLETTiOnDbO2e6lQ&sig2=xMA3TQGo6w2X6xCej0RzEg>
MN: Rapid response planned for Lake Minnewashta zeebs
(8/24/16)<http://www.swnewsmedia.com/chanhassen_villager/news/local/rapid-response-planned-for-lake-minnewashta-zeebs/article_5d05987c-6c83-55e1-996f-5f46a1395eda.html>
….A barrier is being placed around the public boat access
in an effort to contain the infestation. A second barrier is being placed at
the channel that connects the bay where the public boat access is located to
the rest of the lake. Boats are being redirected by signage to the former boat
launch area #2, approximately ¼ mile further into the park, until further
notice. Treatment options are being considered. The low number of zebra mussels
detected, their young age and their location improve the chances for success.
The approximately 30-acre bay where the public boat access is located is
connected to Lake Minnewashta by a small channel that lacks the conditions
conducive to zebra mussel survival. Due to these factors and the early
detection, it may be possible to eliminate the zebra mussels from the site and
prevent their spread throughout the lake….
BOAT INSPECTION/DECON NEWS
Sea Grant Law Center helps western states prevent spread
of aquatic invasive species (9/7/16) <http://seagrant.noaa.gov/News/FeatureStories/TabId/268/ArtMID/715/ArticleID/694/Sea-Grant-Law-Center-helps-western-states-prevent-spread-of-aquatic-invasive-species-.aspx>
In 2016, the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife
Agencies passed a resolution recommending its member states adopt standardized
regulations requiring watercraft operators to take certain actions regarding
drain plugs and visible plant material on watercraft and trailers. The National
Sea Grant Law Center is working with the Association of Fish and Wildlife
Agencies to develop standardized legislative and regulatory guidance documents
that will be consistent across states in the region….
Reduce Risks from Invasive Species Coalition (RRISC)
Recognizes Mussel Dogs for Environmental Protection (8/12/16)<http://www.prweb.com/releases/2016/08/prweb13608324.htm>
Mussel Dogs, a leader in the inspection of watercraft for
quagga and zebra mussels, was recognized for “Outstanding Achievement By a
Private Sector Company in Protecting America’s Environment and Economy.” On
June 15th, 2016, the Reduce Risks from Invasive Species Coalition (RRISC)
hosted its Third Annual Congressional Reception and Awards Dinner at which
Debra DeShon accepted the award on behalf of Mussel Dogs.
Calif: Mussel Dogs muscle in to keep intruders out of
lakes (8/28/16) <http://www.modbee.com/news/article98500477.html>
…Locally, her teams work at Modesto, Woodward and New
Melones reservoirs. The Mussel Dogs also help keep Lake Sonoma, Lake Mendocino
and other California waterways free of the invasive mussels….
MT/AB: Cross-border effort tackles mussel problem
(8/25/16)<http://www.producer.com/2016/08/cross-border-effort-tackles-mussel-problem/>
….Experts estimate an invasion of those same mussels in
Alberta would cost $75 million a year.
That is a big incentive to keep zebra and quagga mussels
from invading the few provinces and U.S. states that remain free of them. It’s
also why there is an international effort to keep the mollusks out through
mandatory boat inspection and constant vigilance….
CO: McPhee managers concerned about mussel invasion
(8/16/16) <http://www.cortezjournal.com/article/20160816/NEWS01/160819915&source=RSS>
….In recent years, the $80,000 annual budget for the
boat-inspection program at the McPhee <https://www.google.com/maps/place/McPhee+Reservoir/@37.5412093,-108.5767877,13z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x87391375c9bfe4cd:0x35c61904b01adde3!8m2!3d37.5147317!4d-108.5492848>
and House Creek boat ramps has been in trouble….
Lamont, Glendale reservoirs closed to motorized boats
Aug. 1 (7/23/16) <http://www.prestoncitizen.com/news/local/lamont-glendale-reservoirs-closed-to-motorized-boats-aug/article_dcc1bf88-505e-11e6-a943-5f7ad6fde1b9.html>
Glendale <https://www.google.com/maps/place/Glendale+Reservoir/@42.123725,-111.8166414,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x87545764d3ed5f65:0xeb0550239738f62b!8m2!3d42.1350296!4d-111.7979837>
and Lamont reservoirs will be barricaded to all motorized watercraft beginning
Monday, Aug. 1, due to the depletion of funding to verify that watercraft are
free of quagga and zebra mussels…..
Related Story: Twin Lakes Canal Co. restricts use of
reservoirs (8/11/16)<http://www.prestoncitizen.com/news/local/twin-lakes-canal-co-restricts-use-of-reservoirs/article_fe0ae7cc-5e83-11e6-81be-8bea4620a09a.html>
BC: Ontario boats banned after bypassing mussel
inspection (8/10/16)<http://www.saobserver.net/news/389734681.html>
The most serious incident occurred July 3 when two boats
from Ontario were found in Sicamous that did not stop at the mandatory boat mussel
inspection station in Golden. The boat owner was charged for not stopping for
an inspection and the boats were banned from B.C. lakes until inspections
occurred….
New Sask. highway signs warn of dangers of aquatic
invasive species (8/11/16) <http://globalnews.ca/news/2877973/new-sask-highway-signs-warn-of-dangers-of-aquatic-invasive-species/>
… “Prevention through education, such as these signs, is
a cost-effective way to help control any potential spread.”….
Current invasive mussel inspection efforts insufficient,
says Okanagan Basin Water Board (8/10/16)<http://infotel.ca/newsitem/current-invasive-mussel-inspection-efforts-insufficient-says-okanagan-basin-water-board/it33512>
…"The inspection stations are only open ten hours a
day,” Findlater says. “What about the rest of the day. And what about the
people who don’t even bother to stop.”….
Calif: Inspections of Boats, Other Vessels Mandatory
Before Launching at Shadow Cliffs (9/7/16)<http://patch.com/california/pleasanton/inspections-boats-other-vessels-mandatory-launching-shadow-cliffs>
Pleasanton, CA — Shadow Cliffs Regional Park in
Pleasanton will now be included in the East Bay Regional Park District’s
invasive mussel inspection program.<http://www.ebparks.org/activities/boatingsailing/invasivemussels>
Park district officials say all watercraft will be visually inspected for
quagga mussels before they will allowed to enter the water as of October 1.
MARINE
Invasive green crab found on San Juan Island by citizen
science volunteers (9/2/16) <http://www.washington.edu/news/2016/09/02/invasive-green-crab-found-on-san-juan-island-by-citizen-science-volunteers/>
Earlier this week in Westcott Bay, San Juan Island, a
team of volunteer monitors caught an invasive green crab<http://wdfw.wa.gov/ais/carcinus_maenas/>,
marking the first confirmation of this global invader in Washington’s inland
waters. The volunteers are part of Washington Sea Grant’s Crab Team<https://wsg.washington.edu/community-outreach/environmental-threats/invasive-green-crab-volunteer-monitoring/>,
an early detection and monitoring program to look for European green crab
(Carcinus maenas) and collect information on local marine life. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is
responsible for controlling aquatic invasive animals and is working closely
with University of Washington-based Washington Sea Grant<https://wsg.washington.edu/> to
determine next steps for limiting further spread of the crab….
Related Stories: Invasive European green crab caught in
Salish Sea for the first time (9/6/16)<http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/green-crab-san-juan-island-salish-sea-1.3750345> and Invasive green crab found in San Juan
Island waters (9/5/16)<http://www.kiro7.com/news/local/invasive-green-crab-found-in-san-juan-island-waters/437179738>
and this article [may have jinxed it] Coast is clear: European green crabs
absent from Strait of Juan de Fuca — so far (8/10/16)<http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/news/coast-is-clear-european-green-crabs-absent-from-strait-of-juan-de-fuca-so-far/>
Europe wants to ban American lobsters (9/6/16)<http://www.wcvb.com/news/europe-wants-to-ban-american-lobsters/41535214>
PORTLAND, Maine —The European Union will conduct a more
extensive review of a proposal to ban lobsters imported from the U.S. and
Canada after a scientific panel concluded Sweden raised valid points in its
request to declare the American lobster an invasive species. The opinion of the
European Union's Scientific Forum on Invasive Alien Species sets in motion a
broader review that also will take into account the opinions of North American
officials, who've criticized the proposal to ban American lobsters. The
international dispute started when Sweden announced it had found 32 American
lobsters in the country's waters earlier this year and that they pose a threat
to native crustaceans.
Vector management reduces marine organisms transferred with
live saltwater bait (8/25/16)<http://www.reabic.net/journals/mbi/2016/Accepted/MBI_2016_Blakeslee_etal_correctedproof.pdf>
The global transfer of live bait creates a potent vector
(mechanism) for invasion of marine species, including associated biota (“hitchhikers”)
not intended for shipment. Unlike other vectors of non-native species transfer
in coastal marine systems (e.g., ship ballast water), vector management
strategies to reduce transport of associated biota with live bait are lacking.
In this study, we experimentally tested whether simple, inexpensive treatment
methods could reduce hitchhiker abundance and richness with live bait
shipments, using the Maine live baitworm trade as a model. The Maine bait
industry ships locally-harvested polychaete worms and packing algae to coastal
regions of the United States, Europe, and Asia, and may unintentionally
transfer associated hitchhikers, including known invaders. We exposed packing
algae to three osmotic shock treatments (tap water, hypersaline water, and tap
+ hypersaline water), and measured abundance and richness of all live and dead
macroinvertebrate taxa, as well as the condition of baitworms, after shipment
to two locations (Maryland and California). Compared to controls, experimental
treatments lowered average abundances by up to 99% and up to 93% for richness,
and appeared to have no negative effects on bait or algae quality. The simplest
treatment, tap water, was statistically as effective as more complicated
treatments in reducing associated biota. We suggest that simple osmotic shock
treatments on live packing algae prior to shipping could reduce the prevalence
of hitchhikers associated with live trade vectors both nationally and
internationally with little impact on the respective industries or their
stakeholders.
ME: Invasive green crabs are scuttling from dilemma to
delicacy (8/14/16)<http://www.pressherald.com/2016/08/14/invasive-green-crabs-are-scuttling-from-dilemma-to-delicacy/>
A marine biologist, an art conservator and a group of
fishermen from Georgetown are trying to use traditional Venetian fishing
methods to turn the invasive green crab into a gourmet dish known in Italy as
moleche….
BALLAST WATER/BIOFOULING
Global ballast water treaty to halt invasive aquatic
species to enter into force in 2017 (9/8/16) <http://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/PressBriefings/Pages/22-BWM-.aspx>
Accession by Finland has triggered the entry into force
of a key international measure for environmental protection that aims to stop
the spread of potentially invasive aquatic species in ships’ ballast water. The
International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water
and Sediments (BWM Convention<http://www.imo.org/About/Conventions/ListOfConventions/Pages/International-Convention-for-the-Control-and-Management-of-Ships%27-Ballast-Water-and-Sediments-%28BWM%29.aspx>)
will enter into force on 8 September 2017, marking a landmark step towards
halting the spread of invasive aquatic species, which can cause havoc for local
ecosystems, affect biodiversity and lead to substantial economic loss. Under
the Convention’s terms, ships will be required to manage their ballast water to
remove, render harmless, or avoid the uptake or discharge of aquatic organisms
and pathogens within ballast water and sediments….
Related Stories: MarEx: Ballast Water Convention to Enter
into Force in 2017 (9/8/16)<http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/ballast-water-convention-to-enter-into-force-in-2017> and New Scientist: Global treaty set to halt
invasive species ravaging our oceans (9/9/16)<https://www.newscientist.com/article/2105414-global-treaty-set-to-halt-invasive-species-ravaging-our-oceans/>
and ICS Calls For Action On Ballast 'Chaos' (9/12/16)<http://www.breakbulk.com/ics-calls-action-ballast-chaos/>
WSS Claims: Crew can test ballast ‘within seconds’
(8/30/16)<http://www.mpropulsion.com/news/view,crew-can-test-ballast-within-seconds_44352.htm>
Crew will be able to check whether their ballast water
complies with IMO’s D2 standard “in less than a minute,” using a gadget called
a fluorometer, claims Norway’s Wilhelmsen Ships Service (WSS). It has signed a
partnership with Turner Designs USA to market its Ballast-Check 2 PAM
Fluorometer to shipowners. The device is based on one that is widely used by
authorities around the world for testing water quality, WSS said in a statement
today (30 August). It is branded with WSS’s Nalfleet marine chemicals trademark.
MD: USCG officials visit BWMS test lab (8/16/16)<http://www.marinelog.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=22705:uscg-officials-visit-bwms-test-lab&Itemid=230>
….The MERC operates a barge based in Baltimore harbor,
which allows Tamburri and his team the flexibility to move to different
locations in order to get different data from various environments. Tamburri
said the MERC is currently focused on conducting land-based and shipboard
testing for type approval of ballast water management systems and can test two
systems per year….
Global Implementation of Ballast Treatment Systems Drives
Huge Growth Rate, Reports BCC Research (8/24/16)<http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/global-implementation-ballast-treatment-systems-drives-huge-growth-rate-reports-bcc-2152980.htm>
…..The global market for ballast water treatment
equipment should grow from nearly $5.2 billion in 2015 to almost $36 billion by
2020, reflecting a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 47.1%.....
AQUACULTURE
Fish farm protestors descend on Campbell River
(8/30/16)<http://www.campbellrivermirror.com/news/391794171.html>
On Monday morning Alexandra Morton and the crew of the
Sea Shepherd stopped in Campbell River and stood hand-in-hand with members of
local First Nations bands to protest fish farms……Marine Harvest has protocol
agreements regarding operations within the territories of the Wei Wai Kum, the
Wei Wai Kai, the Homalco and the K’omox First Nation. All members of the salmon
farmers association have similar agreements with First Nations bands whose land
they are operating on…..
Related Stories: BC: RCMP Arrest Four Indigenous
Protesters over Fish Farm Action (8/25/16)<http://thetyee.ca/News/2016/08/25/RCMP-Arrest-Indigenous-Fish-Farm-Protestors/>
and BC: First Nation claims Cermaq must invict aquaculture centre (8/22/16)<http://fis.com/fis/worldnews/worldnews.asp?l=e&country=0&special=&monthyear=&day=&id=86508&ndb=1&df=0>
DFO not in conflict of interest for promoting salmon
farming: LeBlanc (8/11/16)<http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/dfo-not-in-conflict-of-interest-for-promoting-salmon-farming-leblanc/article31335170/>
Canada’s fisheries minister is dismissing concerns from
stakeholder groups over suggestions the government agency tasked with
conserving wild fish stocks is in a conflict of interest by also being in
charge of championing the salmon-farming industry. Removing industry advocacy
from the purview of Fisheries and Oceans Canada was one of the key recommendations
from a 2012 report by B.C. Supreme Court Justice Bruce Cohen into the 2009
collapse of sockeye salmon in British Columbia’s Fraser River….
Salmon farming on the rise in Washington (8/19/16)<http://crosscut.com/2016/08/salmon-farming-on-the-rise-in-washington/>
Human travelers have I-5 and I-90. Salish Sea salmon have
the Juan de Fuca Strait.
It’s the route that they all swim on their way to and
from the wide Pacific — the salmon from the Elwha and all the rivers of Puget
Sound, plus many salmon returning to Canada’s Fraser River, which are the main
local food source for Puget Sound orcas and have always formed the bulk of
Puget Sound’s commercial catch. Now, Icicle Seafoods — recently acquired<http://www.seattletimes.com/business/seattles-icicle-seafoods-sold-to-canadian-aquaculture-giant/>
by Canada’s Cooke Seafood — wants to raise Atlantic salmon in 9.7 acres of
salmon net pens <http://archive.peninsuladailynews.com/article/20160203/NEWS/302039986>
in the strait, just east of Port Angeles…..
FISH
PBS Newshour: How do you stop invasive lionfish? Maybe
with a robotic zapper (8/24/16) <http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/robot-lionfish-invasive-species-rise-nekton/>
In a way, the lionfish terminator — not the robot’s
official name — is cousin to a vacuum cleaner. The idea surfaced in the fall of
2015, when Colin Angle, the CEO for iRobot and the maker of the Roomba robotic
vacuum, paid a visit to friends on Bermuda. During the visit, Angle and his
wife, biochemist Erika Ebbel joined a group of locals and sailed offshore for a
dive. With them was Chris Flook, who had a long relationship with lionfish…..
Related Story: How Florida is handling invasive lionfish
(8/21/16)<http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/florida-handling-invasive-lionfish/>
Geology, Hydrology, Water Quality, and Potential for
Interbasin Invasive-Species Spread by Way of the Groundwater Pathway Near
Lemont, Illinois (8/23/16)<http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2016/5095/sir20165095.pdf>
Invasive species such as Asian carps have the potential
to travel in the egg, larval, or fry stages from the Des Plaines River (DPR) to
the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC) by way of the network of
secondary-permeability features in the dolomite aquifer between these water
bodies. Such movement would circumvent the electric fish barrier on the canal
and allow Asian carps to travel unimpeded into Lake Michigan. This potential
pathway for the spread of Asian carps and other invasive species was evaluated
by the U.S. Geological Survey……
Tribes’ Efforts Reducing Non-Native Lake Trout In
Flathead Lake (8/12/16)<http://www.cbbulletin.com/437296.aspx>
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are winning
their battle to reduce the number of non-native lake trout in Flathead Lake and
surrounding streams that feed on, among other native species, bull trout. However, a significant reduction in lake
trout so far has not resulted in a corresponding increase in the number of the
native species they’re trying to recover, according to Brian Marotz, hydropower
mitigation coordinator with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
UT: Desert garden to close because of
illegally-introduced fish (8/15/16)<http://www.thespectrum.com/story/news/2016/08/15/desert-garden-close-because-illegally-introduced-fish/88795748/>
The Red Hills Desert Garden, meant to be a sanctuary for
some of southwestern Utah’s endangered native fish, has been polluted by
illegally-introduced goldfish and other popular pet species, authorities say…..
OTHER
MT: Yellowstone fish-killing parasite is so prolific it's
'shocking' fish to death (8/23/16)<http://billingsgazette.com/lifestyles/recreation/yellowstone-fish-killing-parasite-is-so-prolific-it-s-shocking/article_f7a85ab4-ae0b-523c-866d-375824a14719.html>
Paradise Valley — A previously unidentified strain of
parasite has grown so prolific in the Yellowstone River that it is overwhelming
whitefish, killing thousands and prompting the state last week to close more
than 180 miles of the river to all recreation.
“The sheer parasite loading itself is almost shocking the
fish, that’s what’s killing them,” said Eileen Ryce, Montana Fish, Wildlife and
Parks’ hatchery section chief, during a Tuesday press conference along the
banks of the Yellowstone River south of Livingston….
Related: Governor’s executive order proclaiming Invasive
Species Emergency can be found HERE<https://governor.mt.gov/Portals/16/docs/2016EOs/EO-14-2016%20Invasive%20Species%20Emergency.pdf>
Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society warns of
American bullfrog (9/2/16) <http://www.revelstokereview.com/community/392193481.html>
The Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society is warning
people to be on the lookout for the American bullfrog, an invasive species that
is spreading rapidly across British Columbia. “While many frog populations are
in decline worldwide, the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) has been
spreading rapidly in B.C. and outcompeting (or eating) other native frogs and
animals,” the organization wrote in a news release. The American bullfrog is
native to eastern North America but was introduced to the western United States
through human interaction. According to CSISS, bullfrog farms were established
on Vancouver Island in the 1930s in an attempt to market frog legs. Frogs
released from those farms are thought to be the source of the bullfrogs
invading the B.C. mainland….
Wildlife Forever and the Clean Drain Dry Initiative:
Clean Drain Dry Mobile App for the Outdoors (8/29/16) <http://www.scout.com/outdoors/wired2fish/story/1700554-clean-drain-dry-mobile-app-for-the-outdoors>
The new app uses unique campaign marketing materials and
graphics to transport users to a video experience that informs and empowers
positive actions to prevent invasive species….
One-sixth of land on Earth is highly vulnerable to
invasive species (8/23/16)<http://www.purdueexponent.org/campus/article_9ab086ca-693a-11e6-acbe-8fc6c5e59962.html>
….The analysis<http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2016/160823/ncomms12485/full/ncomms12485.html>
pointed to a continued high risk of invasion in the U.S., Europe and China,
areas with relatively robust invasive species management strategies. But many
countries in South America, Africa and Southeast Asia have little capacity to
prevent the introduction of invasive species and weak programs for reacting to
invaders once they are present, leaving their natural resources at risk…..
Great Lakes Commission leads fight against web
trafficking of aquatic invasive species (8/17/16)<http://glc.org/announce/gldiatr-funding-081716/>
Ann Arbor, Mich. – The Great Lakes Commission<http://www.glc.org/> (GLC) announced today
that it has completed development and testing of an innovative web data mining
tool to find aquatic invasive species for sale on the internet, and is
continuing with implementation of the tool. The GLC is receiving $340,000 in
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding from the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency to work with invasive species managers to apply the Great
Lakes Detector of Invasive Aquatics in Trade<http://glc.org/projects/invasive/internet-trade-ais/>
(GLDIATR) to shield against this threat.
WEEDS
UT: Invasive plant causing problems for Southern Utah
waterways (9/8/16) <http://kutv.com/news/local/invasive-plant-causing-problems-for-southern-utah-waterways>
St. George, Utah — (KUTV) A plant once sold locally for
landscape is now being recognized by experts as a hazard and the latest
invasive species of plant in Southern Utah. It's called the Big Reed -Arundo
Donax, and it's found in parts of St. George and La Verkin and has the
potential to grow up to three stories tall. Scientists are worried about its
effects on Virgin River water systems.
TX: 'Lake Dudes' videos use humor to stop invading giant
salvinia (8/26/16)<http://tpwd.texas.gov/newsmedia/releases/?req=20160826a&nrtype=all&nrspan=2016&nrsearch=>
Austin – Government agencies are often tasked with
informing people about pressing issues. Yet information has a hard time
competing for attention. People like entertainment. Enter the “Lake Dudes,”
animated characters created to catch the attention of boaters, hoping to stop
the spread of an invasive water weed that threatens to take over Texas lakes.
“Hey bra, what’s shakin’ lakin’? – Whoa, what happened to you!? – Giant
salvinia, dude.” So goes the dialogue in one of the five animated shorts. In
the video called Fu Manchu, one of the two dudes, who represent lakes, grows a
mustache of giant salvinia that spreads all over him, to the horror of his
friend…..
ID: Dangerous
invader - Salt Cedar (7/17/16)<http://magicvalley.com/o-dangerous-invader/article_ba7002e6-fd0e-5e4d-8a76-bad4166d0049.html>
….It’s salt cedar, the water-thirsty plant that has
devastated riparian habitats in the Southwest by choking out waterways.
Imported from Africa and Eurasia, the salt cedar can reproduce through both
seeds and underground shoots, and it has a competitive advantage over Idaho’s
native riparian species: It excretes a salt from its stems and leaves that
causes a salty crust on the soil surface and inhibits the growth of willows,
cottonwoods and dogwoods…..
TRAININGS/WEBINARS
Webinar: Case Studies in Integrated Pest Management
(9/23/16)<https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5533239867494368258?utm_source=IMC+Webinars&utm_campaign=7dce02011f-Invasive_Mussel_Collaborative_Webinar_6_21_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_74dcc4f2ea-7dce02011f-85310553>
Please join us for a webinar hosted by the Invasive
Mussel Collaborative to discuss applications of integrated pest management
(IPM). This webinar will highlight successful IPM programs from different
disciplines. The webinar will feature presentations on IPM control programs by
the following agencies/organizations:
• David
Sivyer, City of Milwaukee Forestry Operations: Emerald Ash Borer
• Jim
Koopman, University of Michigan: Smallpox Eradication
• Bob
Lambe, Great Lakes Fishery Commission: Sea Lamprey
September 23, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Eastern; Register
here!<https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5533239867494368258?utm_source=IMC+Webinars&utm_campaign=7dce02011f-Invasive_Mussel_Collaborative_Webinar_6_21_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_74dcc4f2ea-7dce02011f-85310553>
JOBS/GRANTS
USGS -- Biologist (Invasive Species Program Manager) –
Reston VA <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/PrintPreview/449484800>
Duties: As a Biologist (Invasive Species Program Manager)
within the Office of the Associate Director for Ecosystems, some of your
specific duties will include:
• Serves as
technical staff expert on invasive species in the USGS Ecosystems Mission Area.
• Leads
USGS invasive species activities across Ecosystems Mission Area in
collaboration with the Department and other agencies and organizations;
coordinates with other mission areas and represents USGS at intra-agency
meetings.
• Develops
and evaluates national science program strategies and activities in
collaboration with other agencies and organizations to address invasive species
issues.
• Prepares
materials and communications to explain, support, advocate and defend invasive
species research in the USGS, the Department, the Office of Management and
Budget, other agencies and organizations, and before Congressional staff and
committees.
• Manages
and tracks the invasive species budget, develops budget justifications and
initiatives, establishes funding priorities, and ensures consistency with
Ecosystem Mission Area goals.
Closes: Friday 9/23/2016
NOAA Grant Opportunity: FY2017 Community-based Marine
Debris Removal<http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=287350>
Description:
The NOAA Marine Debris Program, authorized in the Marine Debris
Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act, codified at 33 U.S.C. 1951-1958,
provides funding to support locally-driven, marine debris prevention,
assessment, and removal projects that will benefit coastal habitat, waterways,
and NOAA trust resources. Funding for this purpose comes through the NOAA
Marine Debris Program as appropriations to the Office of Response and
Restoration, National Ocean Service. Projects awarded through this grant
competition will implement effective, on-the-ground marine debris removal
activities, with priority for those targeting medium- large-scale debris,
including derelict fishing gear. Projects should also provide benefits to
coastal communities, and create long-term ecological habitat improvements for
NOAA trust resources. Through this solicitation NOAA identifies marine debris
removal projects, fosters awareness of the effects of marine debris to further
the conservation of living marine resource habitats, and contributes to the
understanding of marine debris composition, distribution and impacts.
Successful proposals through this solicitation will be funded through
cooperative agreements.
Current Closing Date for Applications: Oct 14, 2016
MT: MDA is now accepting applications for Noxious Weed
Trust Fund grants
Click here to visit the Noxious Weed Trust Fund page for
more information and application forms<http://agr.mt.gov/agr/Programs/Weeds/TrustFund/>. Applications are due 12/1/16
FEDERAL/STATE/PROVINCIAL
LEGISLATION, RULES, ACTIONS
STATE
HI: $39M per year proposed in invasive species fight
(9/10/16)<http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/623696/-39M-per-year-proposed--in-invasive-species-fight.html?nav=5031>
Honolulu (AP) - The state has proposed a $39 million per
year biosecurity plan to be implemented over the next decade that seeks to
bolster its fight against invasive species.
The plan unveiled Wednesday outlines ways to combat
invasive species in Hawaii and prevent new ones from reaching the islands. The
state Department of Agriculture spent the last year creating the proposal with
help from state, federal and county agencies.
Related: Draft Hawaii Interagency Biosecurity Plan<http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/blog/main/biosecurityplan/>
MT: Invasive Species Strategic Framework Listening
Sessions<http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/cardd/MISAC>
Join the Montana Invasive Species Advisory Committee as
they conclude two years of discussions and research to build a better invasive
species management plan for Montana. A series of Listening Sessions will be
held across Montana to present a draft invasive species framework. The
listening sessions will be held:
September 28 in Miles City, Field Office Bureau of Land
Management, 1-4PM
September 29 in Wolf Point, Fort Peck Community College,
Wolf Point Campus community room, 1-4
October 4 in Great Falls, Focus on pathogens, border
protection, and forest pests, Hampton Inn, 1-4PM
October 6 in Pablo, Salish Kootenai College, Camas Room
4-7PM).
For further information contact Stephanie Hester @ shester@mt.gov<mailto:shester@mt.gov>
FEDERAL
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South
Atlantic; Exempted Fishing Permit (8/16/16) <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/08/16/2016-19505/fisheries-of-the-caribbean-gulf-of-mexico-and-south-atlantic-exempted-fishing-permit?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov>
NMFS announces the receipt of an application for an
exempted fishing permit (EFP) from the Florida Keys Commercial Fisherman's
Association (Association). If granted, the EFP would authorize the deployment
of four fish trap designs at several sites in the Federal waters of the Gulf of
Mexico (Gulf) and the South Atlantic to determine the effectiveness of these
gear types for attracting and collecting invasive lionfish and to obtain
lionfish life-history information over a 1 year period. The EFP would also
utilize an outreach and education program to inform the public about the status
of lionfish as an invasive species, efforts to control the spread of the
population, and utilization of lionfish as a consumer food source.
Written comments must be received on or before September
15, 2016
NISC Releases Management Plan (9/2/16)<https://www.doi.gov/invasivespecies/call-action-2016-2018-nisc-management-plan>
In 1999, the National Invasive Species Council (NISC) was
established to provide national leadership in addressing this threat. The
Council recently adopted its 2016-2018 NISC Management Plan<https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/uploads/2016-2018-nisc-management-plan.pdf>.
The Plan sets forth high priority, interdepartmental actions for the Federal
government and its partners to take to prevent, eradicate, and control invasive
species, as well as restore ecosystems and other assets adversely impacted by invasive
species…..
CONGRESS
VIDA: Senate/House Defense Authorization bills to
Conference, VIDA Still Alive
S.373,<https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/373/text> the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act, was
introduced by Sen. Rubio, Marco (R-FL) on 02/04/2015. Similar legislation was
also introduced into the House H.R.980<https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/980/related-bills>
by Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA).
H.R.4909 - National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2017<https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4909/amendments>
was passed on 5/18/16 and included language mirroring VIDA. Report language can
be found HERE<https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/114th-congress/house-report/537/1>. The Senate version of the NDAA (S. 2943<https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/114/s2943>)
passed the Senate on 6/14/16. Unlike the House bill, the Senate bill did not
include VIDA language.
REACTION: Many in
the shipping industry including groups
like the American Waterway Operators <http://www.americanwaterways.com/issues/vessel-discharges/member-action-alert>
support VIDA. However, the States of
California, Oregon and Washington, the
Great Lakes state legislators<http://www.csgmidwest.org/GLLC/documents/2015-VIDA_000.pdf>,
Governors of the States of Washington,
Oregon, California, Minnesota, New York, Colorado, and
Montana, the White House<https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/legislative/sap/114/saphr4909r_20160516.pdf> and conservation groups<https://www.nrdc.org/experts/rebecca-riley/congress-pushing-forward-more-invasive-species>
have raised concerns about the VIDA
legislation in this and the last congress.
The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission and the Association of
Fish & Wildlife Agencies have weighed in against the VIDA language.
NOW WHAT: VIDA is still in-play as the National Defense
Authorization Act conference committee is currently merging the House and
Senate bills. The leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees
remain optimistic they can reach a compromise on a final version of the fiscal
2017 defense authorization bill by the end of the month
<The%20leaders%20of%20the%20House%20and%20Senate%20Armed%20Services%20committees%20remain%20optimistic%20they%20can%20reach%20a%20compromise%20on%20a%20final%20version%20of%20the%20fiscal%202017%20defense%20authorization%20bill%20by%20the%20end%20of%20the%20month%20despite%20a%20number%20of%20unresolved%20issues,%20including%20the%20House’s%20reliance%20on%20the%20overseas%20contingency%20operations%20account%20to%20augment%20the%20base%20budget.>
despite a number of unresolved issues.
Because of significant push-back on VIDA, a “Compromise”
(or “Discussion Draft”) Version is
being circulated in the Senate. State agencies that manage ballast water on the
West Coast (WDFW, CSLC, ORDEQ, and HIDNR) sent a letter to congress on 9/8/16
reflecting their continued opposition to the discussion draft language as
currently proposed for inclusion in the National Defense Authorization Act:
…..This new version fails to address our commercial
vessel concerns as expressed in previous letters. If enacted it would
dramatically increase the risk of introducing and spreading invasive species
and water pollution by removing Clean Water Act and independent state
authorities aimed at protecting the Nation’s waters. VIDA hides these facts
within its poorly written sections and broad preemptive language. This is
evident where VIDA would place the development, implementation, and enforcement
of ballast water and 35 categories of other incidental vessel discharges for
large commercial vessels in the hands of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) – an
agency already overburdened by homeland security and vessel safety concerns. It
is also evident where VIDA goes far beyond simply making the NPDES permit
moratorium permanent for smaller commercial and fishing vessels, which West
Coast States support, to making them fully exempt from both federal and state
regulation, which is completely unacceptable……
For further information on the concerns over VIDA contact Allen Pleus, WDFW, Allen.Pleus@dfw.wa.gov<mailto:Allen.Pleus@dfw.wa.gov>
.
WRDA into Home Stretch in the Senate (9/13/16)
The Senate’s Water Resources Development Act water [S.
2848<https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2848?>]
is on track to pass this week after an overwhelming procedural vote Monday
night to keep it moving along. The last issue to work out is a dredging dispute
between Connecticut and New York but bill managers are optimistic they will get
a deal to clear the way for final passage of their Water Resources Development
Act. “We’re floating a compromise that basically urges the states to … work
together,” Sen. Barbara Boxer told reporters after the Senate voted 90-1 to
invoke cloture on the bill. Sen. Jim
Inhofe Monday night offered a manager’s amendment<http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/14099077-b2cf-45d5-8598-1eb5da2758da/inhofe-boxer-managers-edw16925.pdf>
(and summary<http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/9e425466-09cc-4273-83c2-ba9a978cc241/floor-manager-s-amendment-section-by-section.pdf>)
that included about 35 uncontroversial amendments submitted to the bill
[Source: Morning Energy<http://www.politico.com/tipsheets/morning-energy/2016/09/dakota-access-fight-reaches-white-house-wrda-marches-on-trumps-energy-team-takes-shape-216289>
9/13/16]
The Senate bill contains important “technical fix”
language will allow the use of federal funds (USACE) to support watercraft
inspection stations outside of the Columbia River Basin drainage [S. 2848 Report Language can be found
HERE<https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/114/s2848/text?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>,
see page 77]:
(b) Watercraft Inspection Stations, Columbia River
Basin.— Section 104(d) of the River and Harbor Act of 1958 (33 U.S.C. 610(d))
is amended—
(1) in paragraph
(1), by striking ‘‘stations in the Columbia River Basin to be located in the
States of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington’’ and inserting ‘‘stations to
protect the Columbia River Basin’’; and]
UPDATE: The manager’s amendment<http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/14099077-b2cf-45d5-8598-1eb5da2758da/inhofe-boxer-managers-edw16925.pdf>
[see page 127] includes language, similar to that for the Columbia River Basin,
that authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to establish watercraft inspection
stations to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species at reservoirs
operated and maintained by the Secretary for invasive species in two additional
river basins - the South Platte and Arkansas Rivers. The Senate is expected to
pass the bill in the coming days. Stay Tuned…..more amendments are coming !!!!
Related: Bennet - Backed Provision to Protect Colorado
Waters from Invasive Species Included in Water Resources Bill (9/8/16)<https://www.bennet.senate.gov/?p=release&id=3752>
HOUSE: According
to E&E Daily (9/12/16):
The House has yet to vote on its more narrow $5 billion
version of WRDA, H.R. 5303<https://www.congress.gov/114/bills/hr5303/BILLS-114hr5303ih.pdf>,
that won the bipartisan backing of the Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee in May. A House GOP aide said leaders had yet to decide whether the
measure would get floor time in the final months of this Congress. Unlike the
Senate WRDA, the House bill does not provide any money for Flint, in part
because the T&I Committee lacks the authority to approve money for drinking
water projects. Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.), ranking member on T&I, said he
was still hopeful the House could pass its version and have negotiations with
the Senate before the end of the year.
NOW WHAT: Rep. DeFazio noted the current WRDA
authorization does not expire until early 2017, so it would not need to move
until the lame-duck session. DeFazio conceded that some House Republicans are
likely to oppose the higher spending in the Senate bill and the Flint aid.
"I am not concerned about levels of spending," said DeFazio, noting
the Army Corps faces a $40 billion project backlog and Flint is a "pretty
urgent situation." [Source: Reprinted from E&E Daily with permission
from Environment & Energy
Publishing, www.eenews.net<http://www.eenews.net>;
202/628-6500].
MEETINGS
SEPTEMBER
Ballast Water Management Tech (BWMTech) North America<https://maritime.knect365.com/bwmtech-north-america/>
conference Sept. 27 to 29, Miami, FL.
OCTOBER
Alaska Invasive Species Conference<http://www.uaf.edu/ces/pests/cnipm/annual-invasive-species-c/>,
Fairbanks, AK, October 25 – 27, 2016.
MN: Aquatic Invaders Summit II, Oct 5 -6 | River’s
Edge Convention Center, 10 4th Ave. S.,
St. Cloud, Minn.<http://aissummit.mnlakesandrivers.org/>
Washington Lake Protection Association Annual
Conference: Oct 5-7 in Bellingham, WA. http://www.walpa.org/annual-conference/
The Northern Rockies Invasive Plants Council<http://www.nripc.org/> is holding a
conference October 17-20, 2016, in Boise, ID.
Western Regional Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species: <http://www.fws.gov/answest/> October 19-21, 2016 - Jackson, WY
Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference:<http://www.umisc.net/?utm_source=UMISC+2016+La+Crosse+Save+the+Date&utm_campaign=umisc+2016+save+the+date&utm_medium=email>
October 17-19 2016 La Crosse, Wisconsin. Abstracts are now being accepted
through the UMISC website<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e1GBaykXgW1IzrxK_0HWVCz2xzyFbBfLhL9a0akhrseM2cooAHsRVUqi_YdUkyNCXRsJfy1T0bCDPo14bUFly99qVQ7ELAybmorAHRbQ9UCJWdTaYC_z6JGLuSBhHkobJn3Doeo7jR8Th_gIY1JihYxSFlkr3i-RFDONC1Urmq0S4eScMsCN3Hfo4NYPtjxi-znEUrfSe71oQr66jvVERmJnmNJnE6Bz4i-YLIjFeLVxw64c4ZRtCslY8ZwKHzn4zGNCds4uez_mrvqj8xdH_thCpZ6WVVSH8r8INaupOo_ppaJQ17Zwjh73xrChsaZD2Pz1R3Ifp8DZiLd1WZWxUJGe3vm_u7El&c=o-jgV3dCmn8llzSj8WutpEsNxLwN6jVupEe0QKZ2rhhbH3LNDArwmQ==&ch=8iH9LMPWqTGS8o9PvqKKQJBj-BBtSFR5nIRnLr7u6hEjukpKC8goXg==>.
NOVEMBER
36th Annual Symposium of the North American Lake
Management Society November<https://www.nalms.org/home/conferences-and-events/nalms-upcoming-symposium/nalms-symposium.cmsx>
1 - 4, 2016; Banff Springs Hotel, Banff, Canada. The Call for Abstracts is Now
Open! Submission Deadline: May 6, 2016.
The Next ANSTF <http://anstaskforce.gov/default.php>
Meeting will be in Falls Church, VA November 8-10, 2016
16th Ballast Water Management Conference; Date: 9th
November 2016 - 10th November 2016 Location: Antwerp - Belgium<http://www.wplgroup.com/aci/event/ballast-water-management-conference-europe/>
DECEMBER
The next meeting of the 100th Meridian Initiative
Columbia River Basin Team is scheduled for
Tuesday and Wednesday December 6 &7
at the Hyatt Place Portland Airport/Cascade Station<http://www.portlandairport.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html>
Restore America’s Estuaries/Coastal Society meeting
December 10-15, 2016, New Orleans. Includes Workshop V. Managing Invasive
Species in Coastal Wetland Restoration Projects: A Participatory Workshop to
Identify Trends, Innovative Approaches, and Research Needs. Online Registration Is Now Open Click here to
register<https://rae-tcs-summit.org/registration/add>
Be sure to register before Oct 31 to take advantage of early bird rates!
2017
JANUARY
Idaho Noxious Weed Conference: January 18-19, 2017 in Boise. Agenda TBA. http://www.idahoweedcontrol.org/weedconference.html
FEBRUARY
4th Annual Ballast Water Management Summit <http://infocastinc.com/event/ballast-water-management-summit/>
-- February 8-9, 2017 in Long Beach, CA
Invasive Species Council of BC's Public Forum
& AGM, February 7-8 2016. <http://bcinvasives.ca/news-events/events/invasives-2017-iscbc-forum-and-agm>
MARCH
Western Aquatic Plant Management Society / Western
Society of Weed Science: March 13-16 in
Coeur d’Alene, ID. http://www.wsweedscience.org/annual-meeting/
Call for Abstracts: Iowa Invasive Species Conference
2017<http://www.iowainvasives.org/>;
March 28-29, 2017; Honey Creek Resort at Rathbun Lake, Moravia, IA
OCTOBER
Save the Date: ICAIS - October 22-26, 2017 – Fort
Lauderdale, Florida<http://www.icais.org/>
________________
TO UNSUBSCRIBE/SUBSCRIBE to the AIS NEWS email sphillips@psmfc.org<mailto:sphillips@psmfc.org>
Past issues of AIS NEWS can be found @ http://www.westernais.org/ under the “News” tab.
Stephen Phillips
Senior Program Manager
Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission
205 SE Spokane Street
Suite 100
Portland, Oregon 97202
503-595-3100
Fax: 503 595-3232