Environment DEC
From the August 2005 issue
Draft Report from Invasive Species Task Force
The New York State departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Agriculture and Markets are seeking public comment on the draft report of the New York State Invasive Species Task Force (ISTF) released on Thursday, July 28, 2005. The draft describes problems associated with invasive plants, animals and pathogens, and discusses existing efforts by government, conservation groups and industry. It also makes recommendations about how New York State can more effectively combat this growing and expensive threat.
Purple loosestrife is commonly found in New York State
Invasive Species
Invasive species are non-native species that can harm our ecosystems, food supply, human health and "built environments," such as gardens, landscaping, industry, and infrastructure. Common invasive species found in New York State include: zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, Asian long-horned beetle, Swede midge, purple loosestrife, giant hogweed and black swallowwort.
As a threat to our biodiversity, invasive species have been judged second only to habitat loss. Invasive species come from all around the world, and the rate of invasion is increasing with the expansion of international trade. Since the task force began its work in 2004, at least six new species have invaded New York State.
Draft Report and Public Meetings
Please visit DEC's Website to see the complete draft report, or call DEC at 518-402-8924. The public is encouraged to attend one of the six review sessions that are scheduled for Tuesday, August 2 from 7 PM until 9 PM at various locations throughout New York State as follows:
New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Pride of New York Room
10B Airline Drive, Albany
NYSDEC Headquarters
Meeting Room 3
21 South Putt Corners Road, New Paltz
Adirondack Park Agency Headquarters
NYS Route 86, Ray Brook
Empire Expo Center
Martha Eddy Room
State Fairgrounds, Syracuse
Monroe County CCE
Education Center Auditorium
249 Highland Avenue, Rochester
Carriage House
Planting Fields Arboretum
Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
Written Comments
Written comments on the ISTF draft report will be accepted through September 14, 2005. They may be sent electronically; please put "ISTF Report" in the subject line. Comments also may be mailed to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12233-4756, Attn: ISTF Report.
ISTF History
The ISTF was signed into law by Governor Pataki in 2003, with DEC and Agriculture and Markets leading the 17-member team. The ISTF first convened in 2004 and consults with the federal National Invasive Species Council. The final report from the ISTF is due to Governor Pataki and the Legislature by November 30, 2005.
