Environment DEC
From the September 2003 issue
Governor Signs Bill to Convene Task Force on Invasive Species
Governor George E. Pataki has signed into law legislation that will help protect New York State's natural resources from invasive, non-native species of plants, insects and fish. The law will create a New York State Invasive Species Task Force charged with examining the factors surrounding the introduction of invasive species and the impacts they have on the state.
"New York State is blessed with a wide array of important natural resources, and we are committed to protecting our ecosystems from the damage that can be caused by invasive species," Governor Pataki said. "The creation of this task force will reinforce and strengthen the state's ongoing efforts to prevent invasive, non-native species from harming our environment, our economy and our communities."
Aquatic Nuisance Species Projects
Milfoil can form large,
floating mats of vegetation
on the surface of lakes,
rivers and other water bodies,
preventing light from reaching
native aquatic plants
(Photo courtesy National Park Service)
New York State already supports a number of aquatic nuisance species projects, including: research projects on the impacts of zebra mussels and Eurasian water milfoil on lakes; biological control of purple loosestrife in the lower Hudson River Valley, and educational outreach, such as posting information at state-owned boat launches on the dangers of nuisance aquatic species and helpful tips for preventing the spread of invasive species. In addition, the New York State Biodiversity Research Institute funds projects that improve ecosystem health and protect endangered species.
Task Force Members
The 17-member task force will be jointly chaired by the commissioners of the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Department of Agriculture and Markets, or their designees. It also will include the commissioners of the Department of Transportation and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; the Secretary of State; the chairs of the State Thruway Authority and the Adirondack Park Agency; the Director of the State Canal Corporation, and the Program Manager of the New York Natural Heritage Program, or their designees.
Eight at-large members will be selected by the joint chairs from each of the following: New York Biodiversity Research Institute; New York State's Land Grant University; New York Sea Grant; a statewide organization formed to address invasive species; a statewide land conservation organization; a statewide agricultural organization; a nursery business, and a boating organization. The task force is required to prepare a report for Governor Pataki and the legislature with findings and specific recommendations by November 30, 2005.
Task Force Responsibilities
The New York State Invasive Species Task Force will be charged with assessing the nature, scope and magnitude of the environmental, ecological, agricultural, economic, recreational, and social impacts caused by invasive species in the state.
The task force will identify actions that can be taken to do the following:
- Prevent the introduction of invasive species
- Detect and respond rapidly to populations of invasive species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner
- Monitor invasive species populations accurately and reliably
- Provide for restoration of native species and habitat conditions in ecosystems that have been invaded
- Conduct research on invasive species and develop technologies to prevent introduction
- Promote public education on invasive species and the means to address invasive species
Concerned Officials Express Support
Assemblyman Thomas DiNapoli said, "Invasive species come in many forms--plants, animals, pathogens--but they all pose a common threat to New York's environment and economy. The new task force will allow New York to develop comprehensive strategies to protect our vital ecosystems and our valuable natural resources."
Henry Tepper, Director of the New York State Office of The Nature Conservancy said, "Invasive species, introduced into New York from across the globe, are one of the largest threats to New York's ecosystems and native plants and wildlife. Combating this critical threat to the health of New York's environment will require a coordinated approach from state government, landowners, and private organizations like The Nature Conservancy."
Adirondack Council Executive Director Brian L. Houseal said, "With 2,800 lakes and ponds, close to 30,000 miles of rivers, brooks and streams, nearly six million acres of forest and nine million visitors a year, the Adirondack Park is particularly vulnerable to invasion by non-native species that can cause harm to natural ecosystems. We have already seen infestations of Eurasian milfoil, purple loosestrife, zebra mussels and other species that present us with challenges on both land and water. That can lead to the temptation to employ local quick-fixes, such as a reliance on chemical pesticides, that don't address the broader, regional problems."
