NMMAThe Aquatic Invasive Species Commission released a report that identifies regulatory gaps in how invasive species are dealt with. The commission — a collaboration between Yeti, Bass Pro Shops, and boating and fishing industry stakeholders — is
urging Congress to modernize laws, increase spending and improve coordination at federal, state, local and tribal levels to combat aquatic invasive species.
“Today’s report … is a foundational step in engaging our lawmakers to take a holistic approach to combat and reverse the threat of aquatic invasive species in our waterways,” NMMA president and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer said in a statement. “We look forward to working with Congress to execute on the report’s recommendations to ensure future generations of boaters and anglers have access to clean waters and healthy ecosystems for years to come.”
Aquatic invasive species can foul propellers, jam impellers, clog drains and intakes, and cause bilge-pump failure. They also alter ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, harm water quality and degrade waterways.
“Aquatic invasive species are a tremendous threat to our nation’s waters, causing billions of dollars in economic harm and unquantifiable, often irreversible damage to ecosystems,” Marc Gaden, communications director at the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and associate professor at Michigan State University, said in the statement. “I am particularly pleased to see that many of the recommendations focus on the importance of leveraging science to affect policy.”
This article was originally published in the May 2023 issue.
