Clean, Drain, and Dry! Building Consensus to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species via Recreational Boats

When
August 18, 2014 2:00 pm — 4:00 pm

Co-sponsored by the National Invasive Species Council

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are a persistent scourge of our lakes, rivers, and streams. These species—such as the zebra mussel and Eurasian watermilfoil—cause substantial harm to the environment and economy by changing food webs, undermining commercial and recreational fisheries, clogging pipes, and through other means. Unfortunately, we may not be able to eradicate species once they are introduced—but environmental, government, and industry stakeholders are working together to stop them from spreading into new areas. 

This webinar introduces new legal tools and collaborative approaches to prevent the spread of AIS via recreational boats, which are a major pathway for the spread of invasive mussels and other AIS. Speakers discuss state, industry, and environmental perspectives on the “building consensus” approach used to develop and implement legal tools to address this pathway in the western US. In addition, speakers address other industry efforts at the national level to minimize risks associated with aquatic hitchhikers and recreational boating.

Panelists:

Elizabeth Brown, Invasive Species Coordinator, Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Brian Goodwin, Technical Director, American Boat and Yacht Council
Gabriel Jabbour, Owner, Tonka Bay Marina, MN
Stephanie Showalter Otts, Director, National Sea Grant Law Center
Bob Wiltshire, Executive Director, Invasive Species Action Network

Moderator:

Read Porter, Director, Invasive Species Program, Environmental Law Institute 

 
Click here for to view the slides from the webinar. 

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