rapid response plan - gsarp

RAPID RESPONSE PLAN

FOR THE

GULF OF MEXICO REGION

PREPARED FOR THE

NATIONAL AQUATIC NUISANCE SPECIES TASK FORCE

BY THE

GULF OF MEXICO REGIONAL PANEL

ON AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

December 2004

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contributing Authors

Forward

BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION

The National Program

Rapid Response Guidance

RAPID RESPONSE PLAN COMPONENTS

Organizational Structure and Communication

Florida

Mississippi

Louisiana

Texas

Alabama

Outreach

Florida

Mississippi

Louisiana

Texas

Alabama

Early Detection and Monitoring (Identifying the Problem)

Florida

Mississippi

Louisiana

Texas

Alabama

Regional Monitoring Programs

Southeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program

Fisheries Information Network

Rapid Alert System

Decision Support and Rapid Scientific Assessment

Florida

Mississippi

Louisiana

Texas

Alabama

Appendix 1

Appendix 2

Appendix 3

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Earl Chilton Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Mark McElroy Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Harry Blanchet Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Dale Diaz Mississippi Department of Marine Resources

Dennis Riecke Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks

Leslie Hartman Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural

Resources/Marine Resources Division

Scott Hardin Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Ron Lukens Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission

FORWARD

This plan was developed with funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration through a grant administered by Sea Grant. The intent of this plan is to

establish a strategy for regional rapid responses to reports of non-native aquatic species

that are known to be or have the potential to be invasive. Our approach to developing

this plan was to develop each state section independently and then provide linkages for

the regional aspect. This not only resulted in a regional plan, but it provides each state

with a strategy for a rapid response component to include in their state comprehensive

aquatic invasive species management plan.

The monitoring section of this plan describes in general terms existing monitoring

activities ongoing in each state. This plan does not attempt to analyze the temporal and

spatial coverage of these activities to determine if they are adequate to serve non-

native/invasive species monitoring needs. A separate project will have to be undertaken

by the Gulf and South Atlantic Regional Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species to determine

possible additional monitoring needs.

This regional plan is not implementable at this point in time. In order for implementation

of this plan to be possible, each state will have to adopt the approach and establish a

communication network among the agencies identified herein. In addition, it is likely

that a memorandum of understanding will have to be established among all of the

relevant state agencies in order to facilitate the movement of state personnel and assets

across state lines in the case of multi-state responses. As states continue to develop their

state comprehensive aquatic invasive species management plans, they will work to

implement their rapid response components, and a memorandum of understanding will be

developed for future adoption.

In the interim between finalization of this plan and state adoption of their respective rapid

response components and signing a memorandum of understanding, this plan will provide

general guidance to state and federal agencies regarding possible mechanisms to address

rapid response needs.

BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION

The National Program

The 1990 Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act established the

National Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force (ANSTF) for the overall purpose of

coordinating a national approach to address issues associated with aquatic invasive

species for the United States. Among its several responsibilities is the development of a

national program for responding to non-native species introductions. This program is

generally structured as follows:

Prevention – The most effective means of addressing the invasive species

problem is to prevent their introduction. The cost of prevention is justified by

recognizing that the longer-term costs associated with management and

control will far exceed the up-front cost of prevention. A monitoring and

detection program is required to ascertain if prevention efforts are effective.

Rapid Response – While prevention is desirable, it is not always possible.

Introductions are inevitable. That being the case, the next most effective step

is to rapidly respond to incipient invasions in an effort to eradicate the

invaders before they become established. This approach relies on a

monitoring and detection process to allow early detection of an introduction.

Rapid response provides the highest probability of eradicating an incipient

invasion, but if eradication is not possible, it also provides the highest

probability of effective containment.

Control and Management – Since prevention and eradication are not always

successful, many incipient invasions will lead to establishment of a

population. The next most effective step is to implement control measures to

keep the population from spreading. As noted above, rapid response to an

introduction will assist in this effort; however, many times an organism

becomes established and begins to spread before it is ever detected. In these

cases, control and management are broader in scope and more complex;

however, such efforts are necessary to minimize economic, sociological, and

ecological impacts of the invading species.

This document is designed to address the second component described above by

combining rapid response strategies developed for each state in the Gulf of Mexico

region into a regional rapid response plan.

Rapid Response Guidance

In the past several years a number of documents have been developed to provide

guidance to states and regional entities in the development of rapid response plans.

Notably, the Western Regional Panel published their Model Rapid Response Plan for

Aquatic Nuisance Species in 2002. In 2003, the National Invasive Species Council,

through the National Invasive Species Advisory Committee, developed the General

Guidelines for the Establishment and Evaluation of Invasive Species Early Detection and

Rapid Response Systems. These two documents have been consulted extensively in the

development of this Rapid Response Plan for the Gulf of Mexico Region. In addition,

while still in draft form, the Gulf of Mexico Regional Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species

borrowed heavily from the format and content of the Model Rapid Response Plan for

Great Lakes Aquatic Invasions, a draft prepared by the Great Lakes Regional Panel. The

National Invasive Species Management Plan, entitled Meeting the Invasive Species

Challenge, provides the following guidance with regard to key elements for a successful

early detection/rapid response process:

Access to up-to-date reliable scientific and management information,

Rapid and accurate species identification,

Standard procedure for rapid risk assessment,

New and enhanced mechanisms for coordinating the efforts of

Federal, State and local agencies, tribal governments, and private

entities, and

Adequate technical assistance (e.g., quarantine, monitoring,

information sharing, research and development, and technology

transfer) and rapid access to stable funding for emergency response

efforts, including funding for accelerated research of invasive species

biology, survey methods, and eradication options.

It is also generally accepted that the understanding and support of the general public in

recognizing the need for response actions is critical to success. In some instances,

eradication and/or control methods may seem to the general public to be detrimental, but

are necessary to achieve the eradication or control goals. For example, in order to

successfully eradicate the marine algae Caulerpa taxifolia from a boat basin on the

California coast, the response team had to restrict access to a public water body and apply

large quantities of liquid chlorine to the algal colonies. Public outcry regarding the

inconvenience and/or the environmental damage caused by the response strategy would

have unnecessarily hampered the eradication effort, which could have led to failure. In

these cases, time is of the essence, thus the term ―rapid response.‖ Involving the public at

the beginning of a response effort will minimize the risk of public opposition.

In 2003, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through the National Sea

Grant Program provided funding to develop a rapid response plan for the Gulf of Mexico

region. The plan, completed in late 2004, was developed by the Gulf of Mexico Regional

Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species through a series of workshops that included direct

involvement of the State and Federal agencies with invasive species responsibilities.

RAPID RESPONSE PLAN COMPONENTS

Organizational Structure and Communication

Objective

Ensure that institutional arrangements regarding organizational structure and communication are established in each state and regionally to facilitate preparation and implementation of rapid response plans for aquatic invasions in the Gulf of Mexico and associated watersheds.

Establish institutional arrangements by state and region needed to effectively implement rapid response to aquatic invasive species invasions;

Ensure the timely exchange of information necessary in AIS detection and rapid response planning and implementation;

Ensure that the appropriate stakeholders, agencies, and groups are involved in response plans, both in early stages of development and ensuing implementation;

Identify the appropriate authorities and establish leadership roles that are needed to mobilize an effective rapid response for aquatic invasions in the Gulf of Mexico and associated watersheds;

Establish and implement protocols, such as a memorandum of agreement, within states and on a regional level, to help overcome the multijurisdictional challenges regarding communication and organizational responsibilities needed for effective rapid response.

Florida The organizational structure that will provide overall coordination and communication for rapid responses to AIS detection is the Florida Invasive Species Working Group (FISWG), established and operated under a Memorandum of Understanding among state agencies and other appropriate entities. The FISWG is comprised of the following agencies/organizations:

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) Florida Department of Agriculture and Community Service (FDACS) Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) 5 Florida Water Management Districts University of Florida/Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences

Mississippi Mississippi established a multi-agency Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force charged with developing a state aquatic invasive species management plan, comprised of the following agencies and organizations:

Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP)

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) Mississippi Department of Agriculture (MDA) Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL)/University of Southern Mississippi Southeastern Aquatic Resources Partnership (SARP) Tulane University Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission (GSMFC) US Coast Guard (USCG) US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) US Corps of Engineers (COE) US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)

A State Invasive Species Task Force will provide overall coordination and communication for rapid responses to AIS detection. Louisiana The Louisiana Invasive Species Management Plan recommended the establishment of the Louisiana Aquatic Invasive Species Council, which was legally established by the Louisiana State Legislature through Revised Statute 56:360.1. The Council is comprised of the following agencies and organizations: The Office of the Governor Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR) Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LDTD) Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism (LDCRT) Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) The LDWF serves as the lead agency of the Council, charged with coordinating rapid response actions. Texas The TPWD serves as the lead agency in the State of Texas with the responsibility to coordinate all rapid response actions in cooperation with: Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) Texas Agricultural Extension Service (TAES) Texas Soil Conservation Board (TSCB) Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Local Controlling Authorities

Alabama The ADCNR serves as the lead agency for the development of a state aquatic invasive species management plan. The ADCNR will also serve as the lead agency with the responsibility to coordinate all rapid response actions in cooperation with, but not limited to, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industry (ADAI) Alabama Department of Transportation (ADT) Auburn University Extension and Research Center (AUERC) Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) Alabama Port Authority (APA)

Outreach

Outreach activities should be in at least two categories, including 1) those general

activities that inform and educate the public on the importance of addressing invasive

species issues and 2) targeted activities that are associated with specific rapid response

actions. Targeted outreach activities should be confined to those members of the public

directly associated with the location or subject matter of the rapid response proposed

(those with an immediate vested interest).

Objectives

Provide a multi-tiered communication system to: Educate the public on aquatic invasive species and associated risks posed by

aquatic invasions; Raise awareness and understanding among public and private stakeholders on why

a rapid response is needed in the event of an AIS invasion, including clarification of the benefits versus risks (or perceived risks) of a response;

Ensure public involvement, as needed, during the development of rapid response action with an eye towards generating public faith in management decisions;

Ensure that during the process of AIS detection and rapid response, information flows expeditiously and accurately between appropriate members of the rapid response team and public/private stakeholders, when appropriate;

Apprise all parties and stakeholders on rapid response activities, related progress and results of plan implementation;

Provide feedback loops between public/private stakeholders and agencies with jurisdictional authority in efforts to provide effective communication through out the entire rapid response process.

Florida Through overall coordination accomplished by the Florida Invasive Species Working Group, rapid response outreach activities will be accomplished as follows: MARINE AND FRESHWATER FISH AND WILDLIFE

Public information activities will be conducted by the Public Information Office

of the FFWCC;

Outreach materials for rapid response actions will be developed by the Public

Information Office of the FFWCC; Public Meetings will be planned and coordinated by the Office of Policy and

Stakeholder Coordination of the FFWCC. AQUATIC PLANTS

FDEP CULTURED ORGANISMS AND PLANTS Public information, public or farmer meetings, and emergency notifications are

conducted by the Commissioner of Agriculture, his public information staff and/or the

Department's divisions that are responsible for prevention, control, eradication or

educational efforts: Animal Industry, Aquaculture, Environmental Services, Marketing

and Development, and Plant Industry. Mississippi Public information activities, public meetings, and development of outreach materials will be coordinated by state agencies with statutory authority over aquatic species (MDWF&P, MDAC and MDMR) and other agencies working in cooperation with the Mississippi Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force. Louisiana The LDWF will serve as the lead agency to coordinate most public outreach activities including press releases, development of outreach materials, and conducting public meetings, with the exception of West Nile virus and public health issues associated with the harvest and consumption of raw oysters, which are addressed under existing processes. Other existing rapid response activities currently in place will be identified by the Council to avoid duplication of effort and jurisdictional conflict. Texas The TPWD will serve as the lead agency to coordinate most public outreach activities including press releases, development of outreach materials, and conducting public meetings, with the exception of West Nile virus and public health issues associated with the harvest and consumption of raw oysters, which are addressed under existing processes. Other existing rapid response activities currently in place will be identified to avoid duplication of effort and jurisdictional conflict.

Alabama The ADCNR will serve as the lead agency to coordinate most public outreach activities including press releases, development of outreach materials, and conducting public meetings, with the exception of West Nile virus and public health issues associated with the harvest and consumption of raw oysters, which are addressed under existing processes, including the Alabama Health Department. Other existing rapid response activities currently in place will be identified to avoid duplication of effort and jurisdictional conflict.

Early Detection and Monitoring (Identifying the Problem)

Objectives

Assess effectiveness of existing monitoring programs to facilitate response to AIS

invasions, and recommend improvements/enhancements to existing programs or establish new programs;

Identify invasion ‗hotspots‘ that have either a high risk of being invaded or a high probability of being severely impacted by a new nonindigenous species invasion due to the high quality of the resource;

Assess existing and develop efficient sampling protocols for AIS early detection and monitoring;

Use existing or develop, as needed, an integrated network for detection, verification, and reporting of new infestations/invasions, for example the USGS NAS Website.

Florida

FRESHWATER FISH AND WILDLIFE

Non-Native Fisheries Project (FWC) – distribution and assessment of freshwater

fishes

Law Enforcement Inspections of pet retailers, wildlife exhibitors (FWC) –

regulation of restricted and prohibited fish and wildlife species

FDACS, Division of Aquaculture - Annual survey of certified aquaculturists

Periodic sampling of a limited number of freshwater fisheries (FWC)

MARINE SPECIES

Fisheries Independent Monitoring (FWC)

Ecosystem Assessment Surveys (FWC)

FRESHWATER AQUATIC PLANTS

Annual survey of public water bodies with boating access (FDEP)

Periodic survey of lakes with fisheries (FWC)

Water Management District quarterly/annual surveys

Florida Lakewatch- University of Florida program utilizing volunteer citizen lake

monitoring program

Various county programs

OTHER SURVEYS

Big Bend Sea Grass Monitoring Program

Exotic Fish Assessments in Southeast Florida Canals

Coral Reef Evaluation and Monitoring Project

Palm Beach County Natural and Artificial Reef Monitoring Program

Florida Fisheries Independent Monitoring Program

Florida Freshwater Aquatic Plant Survey

Florida Lake Watch

Florida Marine Bivalve Survey

Tampa Bay Blue Crab Fishery Independent Monitoring Project – Trapping

Southwest Florida Stone Crab Fishery Independent Monitoring Project - Trapping

Tampa Bay Stone Crab Fishery Independent Monitoring Project - Trapping

Mississippi MARINE SPECIES

Monitoring and Assessment of Mississippi Interjurisdictional Marine Resources; MDMR

Fishery Monitoring and Assessment This project provides for ongoing monitoring and assessment of marine fishery resources in Mississippi territorial waters. Monthly collections of relevant environmental data and representatives of commercial species of marine shellfish (except oysters) and fishes have been made since Oct. 1973 (no data were collected Oct. – Dec. 1976). In January 1982, sampling coverage was reduced to a transect through the Biloxi Bay estuary. Standard collection procedures include use of a 16-ft (5 m) lined otter trawl, a 50-ft (15 m) bag seine [¼ in (0.6 cm) bar mesh], and a Renfro beam trawl. At each station, water depth, cloud cover, turbidity, winds, wave height, temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen are recorded. Surface and bottom water temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen are taken at trawl stations. Samples are iced in the field and returned to the laboratory where they are sorted to individual species. Beam trawl samples are preserved in the field in 10% formalin. For selected species, individual lengths and weights are taken. Total number and total weight are recorded for all species. All data are entered into electronic files using dBase 5.7 (Borland), a data base management software package. Customized data entry programs as well as output programs mimicking past production outputs are also used. Production output includes a detail listing, summary listing, and hydrology listing by month. The Gulf Coast Research Laboratory conducted all sampling from 1973 through January 2002. From February 2002 through the present, trawl sampling is conducted by the MDMR with the GCRL responsible for collection of seine and beam trawl samples.

Finfish Monitoring

Relative abundance and size distribution of finfish populations in Mississippi waters are

monitored with gillnets.

A monofilament gill net 750 feet long by 6 feet deep, with 5 – 150 ft. panels of 2.0, 2.5,

3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 inch stretch mesh is placed in two locations in each of four Mississippi

estuarine systems – Pearl River, Bay St. Louis, Biloxi Bay, and Pascagoula River. Select

species are labeled and brought back to the laboratory. Total, fork, and standard length

(mm), weight (g), sex, gonadal condition, and gonadal weight are recorded for select

species. Total number, total biomass, and length range are recorded on all other finfish

species captured.

Oyster Monitoring

The condition of oyster reefs in Mississippi waters is monitored quarterly. Data are

collected on size distribution, mortality, predator occurrence, and spat set densities.

Additional samples are taken to provide data for specific events, i.e. shell plantings,

newly productive areas, spat sets, and evidence of spawning. Sampling is conducted

using two separate methods: 1) one minute oyster dredge pulls, and 2) random square

meter dive samples. Salinity and temperature are recorded at the surface and bottom at

each sampling site.

Contact Persons - Monitoring and Assessment: Mike Brainard, Mississippi Department

of Marine Resources; Harriet Perry, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

Contact Person - Finfish Monitoring: Mike Buchanan, Mississippi Department of Marine

Resources

Contact Person - Oyster Monitoring: Scott Gordon, Mississippi Department of Marine

Resources FRESHWATER FISH Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality Index of Biological Integrity of rivers and streams

1. Description of Survey: This is an ongoing effort, which began in 2001, with the

sampling of over 500 sites (statewide with the exception of the Delta) and resulted in the

development of an Index of Biological Integrity (M-BISQ). The 2001 data have since

become known as Phase I. Subsequent phases of this project have continued each year,

and in 2005, we will begin collections for Phase V. Thus Phase II was collected in 2002,

Phase III in 2003; and Phase IV collected in 2004. Just over 1000 sites with coverage as

referenced above have been assessed during the various phases of this project. At each

station, in-situ water chemistry parameters (dissolved oxygen, water temperature, air

temperature, conductivity, pH, turbidity, and total dissolved substances), as well as grab

samples returned to our laboratory for analysis of Total Phosphate, Total Kjeldahl

Nitrogen, Ammonia Nitrogen, Nitrate + Nitrite Nitrogen, and Total Organic Carbon. In

addition a physical habitat assessment of some 20 parameters is conducted.

Next a modified Wolman Pebble Count is completed. Finally, samples are collected

from the natural substrates instream and preserved for laboratory processing and

identification of invertebrates to compute the M-BISQ score of stream condition.

Coverage: The various phases of the study covers wadeable streams in all portions of the

state with the exception of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (Delta) Ecoregion, and those

streams influenced tidally.

Sampling Frequency: Most streams that are a part of this study have been sampled only

once. There are two exceptions: First, streams that are designated as QA/QC sites have

been sampled by a different sampling team some period (usually 2-4) of weeks following

the sampling by the original team. Typically 10% of the sites sampled during a particular

year are re-sampled; and secondly, streams that were sampled and the data assessment

fell into an area of uncertainty between two of the assessment categories (i.e. streams

that the M-BISQ score indicated were impaired, but were only a few "points" below a

"non-impaired" rating) were subsequently resampled in an attempt to obtain a more

definite assessment.

Gear used: Biological samples are collected using a D-frame aquatic dip net. In-situ

water chemistry parameters are obtained using multiparameter field meters (YSI or

Hydrolab). Turbidity is measured using a HACH model turbidimeter. Calipers and sand

cards are used to determine particle size.

Station description: A stream reach of 100 meters is delineated upon arrival at a site. All

or the vast majority of the site must be wadeable to be considered a target site. In

addition the site must be in an area that is out of the influence caused by a bridge or road

crossing, and attempts are made to obtain a "representative and typical" reach.

Sponsoring Agency/Organization: Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality

Contact person: Mike Beiser, Chief, MDEQ Biological Services Section

Disposition of Data (computerized-format, paper forms, etc.): Paper forms for all phases

are housed at the MDEQ Laboratory in Pearl MS. These include the pebble count,

habitat assessment, station location information, water chemistry data, and taxonomic

identifications. Laboratory data on water chemistry is housed in the Laboratory's

Information Management System (LIMS). Biological data, including analysis statistics

and the M-BISQ scores are housed in a database known as EDAS, which is currently

being maintained by a contractor. A Final Report is available for Phase I, however no

Final Report will be prepared for Phase II. We are currently in the process of finalizing

biological data and data analysis from phases III and IV. The data from phases I and II

have been incorporated into the state's 305(b) water quality report to congress, and this

report is available through MDEQ Public Records.

Timeliness of data Availability: As mentioned above, all data from phases I and II are

available through requests made to MDEQ Public Records. All data with the exception

of the biological assessments and statistics are available for phases III and IV as

described previously.

Accessibility: Data is available through MDEQ Public Record

Periodic survey of state lakes, state parks, and private ponds; MDWFP Law enforcement inspections of aquarium fish retailers; MDWFP

Mississippi Delta Pilot Study

2. Description of Survey: This pilot project was conducted by the Mississippi

Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) in conjunction with the U.S. Geological

Survey (USGS) to evaluate and test methodologies that will subsequently be used to

determine whether Alluvial Plain streams are attaining water quality standards as outlined

in Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Fifty sites were sampled in the winter and

summer of 2002.

At each station, in-situ water chemistry parameters were measured (dissolved oxygen,

water temperature, air temperature, conductivity, pH, turbidity, and total dissolved

substances), and grab samples were collected and sent to the USGS laboratory for

analysis of Total Phosphate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Ammonia Nitrogen, Nitrate +

Nitrite Nitrogen, and Total Organic Carbon. In addition a physical habitat assessment of

some 20 parameters was conducted. Next a modified Wolman Pebble Count is

completed. Finally, macroinvertebrate samples were collected from the natural substrates

instream and preserved for laboratory processing and identification of invertebrates to

compute score of stream condition.

Coverage: 50 sites in northwestern Mississippi and western Arkansas.

Sampling Frequency: Two index periods were selected for sampling: winter 2002, and

summer 2002. Sites were sampled once per index period.

Gear used: Biological samples are collected using a D-frame aquatic dip net. In-situ

water chemistry parameters are obtained using multiparameter field meters (YSI or

Hydrolab). Turbidity is measured using a HACH model turbidimeter. Calipers and sand

cards are used to determine particle size.

Station description: A stream reach of either 100 meters or 500 meters was sampled and

was dependant on stream order and size. Wadeable and non-wadeable sites were

included in the study. Site locations were selected such that influence caused by a bridge

or road crossing was avoided and attempts were made to obtain a "representative and

typical" reach.

Sponsoring Agency/Organization: Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality

Contact person: Chip Bray, MDEQ Biological Services Section

Disposition of Data (computerized-format, paper forms, etc.): Paper forms, field sheets,

macro invertebrate samples and biological data are presently located at a private

contractor's facility where the data is being analyzed and interpreted. These include the

pebble count, habitat assessment, station location information, water chemistry data, and

taxonomic identifications. Laboratory data on water chemistry is stored on the MDEQ

Laboratory's LIMS located in Pearl, MS.

Timeliness of data Availability: Since the data are still considered draft, it is unavailable

at this time.

Accessibility: Since the data are still considered draft, it is unavailable at this time. Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks Routine/Periodic Aquatic Sampling: Periodic survey of state lakes, state parks and private ponds

1. Description of Survey: Trap nets are used to estimate the abundance and size structure

of crappie.

Coverage: 5-15 net nights for standard nets, 2-7 net nights for large nets, depending on

reservoir size.

Sampling Frequency: September 1 - December 31, preferably when the water

temperature is around 60 F

Gear Used: Standard trap nets have two 3 foot high by 6 foot high frames, 30 inches

apart, with four 3 foot diameter hoops with the first hoop32 inches from the second

frame; ½ inch bar measure. Large floating trap nets with 2 large frames (8' x 8'), 4 small

frames (4' x 4') and a 200' x 8' lead.

Station Description: Randomly selected sites with the net set on the bottom and

perpendicular to the shore.

Sponsoring Agency/Organization: Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks

Contact Person: Dennis Riecke

Disposition of Data (computerized-format, paper forms, etc.): ASCII Files, Paper Forms,

and Annual Reports

Timeliness of Data Available: Annually by March 30 for previous Calendar Year

Accessibility: Annual Reports are Public Documents; however, access to computer files

via the Internet is restricted by MDWFP. CDs and Floppy Disks have been provided in

the past.

2. Description of Survey: Angler Catch and Effort Survey to Interview anglers who are

completing or have completed fishing at lake sites to determine catch, harvest, effort,

species preference and expenditures.

Coverage: Access surveys use interviews at one specific location and roving surveys

which cover a specific area of a water body or the entire water body.

Sampling Frequency: Access – at least 4 weekend day and 10 weekday samples in a 3-

consecutive spring month period or 5 weekend day and 13 weekday samples for a 4

month period, randomly selected. Each survey is for 6 hours during randomly selected

time periods.

Roving — Sample at least 10% of the days in each quarter with weekends and weekdays

sampled in a 50/50 ratio. Sampling schedules are generated randomly by date, lake

section, circuit directions and if applicable, starting times.

Gear Used: Interview forms, rulers and scales.

Station Description: Access creels are used when many interviews can be obtained at an

access point. Roving creels are used when fishing effort is low or with many access

locations relative to the number of anglers.




and Annual Reports




the past.

3. Description of Survey: Habitat Survey and Assessment of fish attractors, boat ramps,

aquatic plants, and bank access. GPS or aerial photography is used to determine

abundance of aquatic vegetation. Maps will be constructed from USGS topographic

maps. Geo-referenced data files are available from MDWFP. Other features (water depth,

stream channels, submerged structure, flooded timber, ramps, piers, plant coverage)

should be added to the lake file with GPS.

Coverage: Entire water body

Sampling Frequency: Data on physical features may be obtained during other sampling.

Aquatic plants surveys must be conducted between July and September.

Gear Used: GPS or aerial photography.

Station Description: entire lake




and Annual Reports




the past.

4. Description of Survey: Large Rotenone Sampling: Application of a chemical fish

toxicant to kill all fish within a confined area to determine species composition,

abundance and size structure.

Coverage: 1-3 acres depending on lake size.

Sampling Frequency: July - September, preferably in August

Gear Used: Block net with mesh size no larger than 0.5 inch (bar measure), 5% (active

ingredient) rotenone is dispensed to achieve a 1 ppm rotenone concentration in the

sample area within a 30 minute period, boats, dip nets.

Station Description: Littoral areas, especially coves




and Annual Reports




the past. Louisiana MARINE FISHERIES DIVISION The Marine Fisheries Division is charged with management of the full range of Louisiana‘s estuarine and marine resources. Division responsibilities are categorized as

Fisheries Management Programs and Habitat Protection Programs. Fisheries management programs include Shellfish Management, Mollusc Management and Finfish Management. Division responsibilities are conducted through seven coastal study areas and the Lyle S. St. Amant Marine Laboratory. The Marine Fisheries Division maintains a long-term trawl sampling program throughout

coastal Louisiana. Fishery biologists annually collect about 2,000 sixteen-foot trawl

samples from both inshore and offshore waters in the seven coastal study areas. Data

collections include identification of all species encountered in these samples, as well as

length measurements, so these samples could be used as a monitoring tool for

identification of new invasions of non-native species.

Management of the public oyster grounds, reservations, and tonging areas relies heavily

upon data gathered by the Mollusk Monitoring program. This program provides

quantitative and qualitative data on oyster populations and other reef-associated animals.

Approximately 190 square-meter samples are collected each July and over 150 dredge

samples are collected from March through October using SCUBA. Field biologists also

gather hydrological data on public oyster areas and develop harvest and effort estimates

by conducting boarding report surveys of oyster boats. All of this information could

potentially be used as a monitoring tool for identification of new invasions of non-native

species.

The primary objective of the Finfish Management Program is to develop and maintain a

database of scientific information that can be used to make rational recommendations for

the management of coastal finfish stocks. The information in the database is collected

through fishery independent and fishery dependent sampling. The Marine Fisheries

Division fishery dependent monitoring program collects information from fishers,

processors, and observers based on methods developed by National Marine Fisheries

Service (NMFS) for similar programs. These programs are cooperative; with NMFS or

the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the data sets reside in those

organizations. The fishery independent monitoring program is an ongoing collection of

data by LDWF biologists in the field, conducting surveys designed to sample coastal

waters in an objective manner. Such surveys collect information based on geographic

ranges independent of commercial or recreational fishing operations.

A fishery-independent monitoring program has been ongoing since 1985, providing

information regarding the status of fish stocks that occur in the coastal waters of

Louisiana at some time during their life cycle. Three gear types are used coast wide to

sample various year classes of estuarine dependent fish: 50' bag seines, 750 foot

experimental gill nets, and a 750 foot trammel net. The bag seine is used to sample

young of the year and provide information on growth and movement. Gill nets are used

to sample juvenile, sub-adult and adult fish and provide information on relative

abundance, year class strength, movement and gonadal condition. The net is composed of

five panels (150 feet x 8 feet) each, of the following stretched mesh sizes: two inch, 2.5

inch, three inch, 3.5 inch & four inch. A trammel net is used to provide information on

relative abundance, standing crop and movement. The trammel net is 750 feet in length,

six feet in depth and constructed of nylon.

Gill net samples are collected semi-monthly from April through September, and monthly

from October through March using a strike net technique. The gill nets are set in a

crescent shape open towards the shoreline and then circled several times by the sampling

boat, driving those animals present into the net. Trammel net samples are taken monthly

from October through March, and seine samples are taken monthly from January through

August, and semimonthly from September through December. Hydrological readings

(conductivity, salinity, and water temperature) collected with each biological sample, as

are wind direction and speed. Samples are collected at specific locations arranged in

such a manner so as to cover the beach, mid-marsh and upper marsh areas of all major

bay systems throughout coastal Louisiana. The catch and hydrological information are

summarized for each Coastal Study Area on a monthly basis. Each year, about 690 seine

samples, 800 gill net samples, and 250 trammel net samples are taken across the coast.

All of this information could potentially be used as a monitoring tool for identification of

new invasions of non-native species.

The Department collects commercial fishery landings statistics through the Trip Ticket

Program, implemented in 1999. Through this program, commercial landings data are

collected on a trip basis from wholesale/retail seafood dealers, crab shedders and

commercial fishermen holding fresh products licenses. There were over 300,000

commercial fishing trips reported in 2002 producing nearly 1.3 billion pounds of seafood.

Information from this program can be used to evaluate changes in commercial fisheries,

including effects of non-native species that may also be harvested and reported through

this system.

Along with the collection of commercial landings, the Department also collects

biostatistical and trip information from interviews with commercial fishermen.

Biologists interview commercial fishermen to gather detailed information about a specific

fishing trip, and collect biological information on their harvest. This information could

potentially be used as a monitoring tool for identification of new invasions of non-native

species.

The marine recreational fishery in Louisiana is being surveyed by the LDWF.

Departmental biologist survey anglers to characterize their harvest in terms of species

composition and other biological factors. All of this information could potentially be

used as a monitoring tool for identification of new invasions of non-native species.

.

INLAND FISHERIES DIVISION

The Inland Fisheries Division manages fish populations and habitats for the conservation

and improvement of sport and commercial fishing primarily in the freshwater areas of the

state. Fish populations are managed through surveys, fish sampling, fisheries regulations,

fish stocking and the modification of fisheries habitat. In addition, the Division is

charged with the control of nuisance aquatic vegetation in public water bodies. This is

accomplished through an aggressive aquatic plant control program that utilizes a variety

of management options including herbicides, draw downs, and biological controls. The

Division is also leading the charge with respect to invasive species. A recently passed

executive order created a task force under the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to

create a management plan to deal with nuisance invasive species.

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT

Lake Management

Fisheries managers estimate relative abundance, size, class structure, and species

composition of fish population and physiochemical characteristics of the water in

approximately 65 lakes and streams annually. All lakes are sampled in a similar manner

so that data can be compared. Sampling techniques include:

Electro fishing samples are taken in the spring and fall to provide a measure of

abundance. Only largemouth bass are collected in the spring while largemouth bass and

crappie are collected in the fall. A forage sample of all species is also collected in the

fall. Standard sampling time is 900 seconds per station.

Gill net samples are taken during winter, primarily to determine relative abundance and

length frequencies of gizzard shad, striped bass, hybrid striped bass, commercial, and

rough fish species. Monofilament nets with meshes from 2.5 to 4.0 inches (bar mesh) are

set at dusk and gathered at sunrise. Each fish taken is identified, weighed and measured.

This sampling method provides gear selectivity, species composition, and length

frequency information.

Nighttime shoreline seine sampling measures reproductive success of the sunfishes

including bass and bluegill. Samples are conducted during spring and summer and

consist of one quadrant haul at each sample site using a 25-foot by six-foot seine.

Frame nets are used to measure relative abundance and length-frequencies of crappie and

other sunfish. Sampling is conducted for a minimum of 48 hours with two nets at each

station. Water quality samples are taken at all sampling stations. Water temperature, pH,

dissolved oxygen concentration, conductivity, oxidation/reduction potential and water

body depth are measured.

Creel samples are conducted on three water bodies. This sampling method puts the

fisheries manager in direct contact with the fishermen. Information collected includes

species sought and species caught, distance traveled, time fished, number caught and

released, and a measurement of all fish harvested. The Inland Fisheries Division also

monitors other fish species including paddlefish, and sturgeon. The Division continues to

collect data on relative abundance, habitat requirements, movements, and population

estimates.

Technical Advice to Owners of Ponds and Small Lakes is also part of the responsibility

of the division. During the past year, division biologists made over 256 site visits

assisting residents of the state on problems ranging from construction and stocking

requirements to harvest and disease identification. The biologists also answered over

2,055 phone inquiries about various pond-related problems.

Louisiana Cooperative Fish Disease is a project that the division has with the L.S.U.

Aquatic Animal Diagnostic Lab within the School of Veterinary Medicine, which

provides support to private pond owners. Last year 196 cases were submitted as part of

this project.

The Division is also responsible for conducting investigations into fish kills in

freshwater. Area impacted and losses are recorded for each kill. Six major fish kills and

dozens of minor incidents were investigated during 2004. Naturally occurring dissolved

oxygen depletion was indicated as the cause of most kills, and one disease outbreak

occurred. Continued investigations into the Largemouth Bass Virus problem were

conducted. DWF personnel assisted in administering a grant to LSU to develop non-

lethal methods for detection of this disease.

Fish Stocking

The goals and objectives of the Inland Fisheries Division include providing the public

with a quality fishing experience and managing for big bass. In part, the management for

big bass is reliant upon the stocking or incorporating Florida largemouth bass genes into

our native black bass environment. In 2003-2004 Departmental Inland Fish Hatcheries

provided fish stocking as an integral part of our fisheries management program for 85

diversified water bodies encompassing over 1,000,000 acres throughout the state of

Louisiana.

The following is an alphabetical listing of the water bodies stocked in fiscal year 2003-

2004:

Amite River, Anacoco Lake, Atchafalaya Basin, Atchafalaya River, Bayou Macon Cutoff

1,2,3, Big Alabama Bayou, Big Mar, Black Bayou (Bossier), Black Bayou Lake (Caddo),

Black Lake (Natchitoches), Black River Lake, Blind River, Bonnie Carre Splw., Brec

Pond, Buhlow Lake, Bundick Lake, Caddo Lake, Cane River Lake, Caney Lake

(Webster), Cataouatche Lake, Cheniere Brake, Chicot Lake, City Park Lake (Baton

Rouge), City Park Lake (New Orleans), Claiborne Lake, Cocodrie Lake, Concordia Lake,

Concordia Parish Community Center, Cotile Lake, Crooked Creek Lake, Cross Lake,

Cypress Lake, D‘Arbonne Lake, Dept Of Ag Ponds, Des Allemands, False River,

Grambling Lake, Grassy Lake, Hardwater Lake, Henderson Lake, John K. Kelly, Kepler

Lake, Kincaid Lake, Kiroli Park Lake, Kisatchie Forest Lakes, Lacassine Nat‘l Wildlife

Refuge, Lafourche Lake, Lafreineire Lake, Lake Bruin, Lake Fausse Point, Lake Louis,

Lake Ophelia, Lake Providence, Lake St. John, Lake Verret, Lower Sunk Lake (Dist.4),

Mermentau River, Mill Creek Lake, Moore Lake, Nantachie Lake, Poverty Point Lake,

Red River – Pools 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5, Red River (WMA)-Barrow Pit, Rockefeller Refuge,

Rodemacher Lake (Cleco), Ruston Park Lake, Spanish Lake, St. John Bayou, Tangipahoa

River, Tchefuncte River, Tickfaw River, Natalbany River, Toledo Bend, Twin Lake,

Veteran‘s Park, University Lake, Vernon Lake and Wallace Lake.

Aquatic Plant Research and Control Program

During fiscal year 2001/02, the Aquatic Plant Research and Control Program provided

substantial benefits to the citizens of Louisiana. Responsibilities included monitoring

water bodies for non-native, invasive aquatic vegetation, providing technical assistance,

and continuous investigation into more effective and environmentally safe methods of

controlling these nuisance plants. Aggressive treatment of affected waters continued in

an effort to restore and improve the aquatic habitat and the natural desirable balance of

plants and fish. Control of nuisance plant species is also necessary to provide boating

access to many public waterways.

Eleven (11) lakes were type-mapped to determine and evaluate the status of aquatic

weeds, primarily submersed. Species composition and density were determined on five

(5) lakes. The results from these investigations were used in formulating management

plans on which decisions of water body habitat alteration are based.

Biologists continued to provide advice and technical assistance to private and municipal

pond owners concerning aquatic vegetation management problems. This popular

extension program also provided aquatic plant identification assistance for the public on

request.

Research projects of the Aquatic Plant Research and Control Program included

evaluation of new herbicides to determine their effectiveness for use in aquatic weed

control. Investigations into the affects of environmental conditions and water level

fluctuations on hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) and two species of salvinia, common

(Salvinia minima) and giant (S. molesta), were conducted. Additionally, research on

biological control of both species of salvinia using the salvinia weevil is ongoing.

The department is funded to control, primarily, water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes).

Crews utilizing boats, airboats, mudboats and roadside spray units effectively applied

herbicide to 27,227 acres of Louisiana‘s freshwater wetlands infested with water

hyacinths. Another 7,950 acres were treated by helicopter for a total of 35,177 acres.

Other exotic, aquatic plants, such as, hydrilla and the two species of salvinia can be just

as troublesome as water hyacinth. During the year, special legislative appropriations

were used to purchase herbicides to conduct limited applications on specific water bodies

that had particularly severe infestations of these plants. These applications were for

boating access improvement and habitat enhancement, and served to familiarize local

residents with the safe and effective use of aquatic herbicides.

Texas COASTAL FISHERIES DIVISION

The Coastal Fisheries Division of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is responsible for

the management of the marine fishery resources of Texas‘ four million acres of saltwater,

including the bays and estuaries and out to nine nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico.

Management is accomplished using one of the most extensive long-term marine resource

monitoring programs in the world encompassing both fishery independent and dependent

sampling efforts.

Fisheries Independent monitoring programs include four different sample gears designed

to target different habitat and life history stages of finfish and shellfish. These programs

were designed to provide a statistically reliable method to assess the fish community as a

whole, while providing statistically precise data on species of major interest in Texas‘

coastal waters.

Bag seines (2,160/year) were implemented in 1977 and are used to sample young-of-the-

year finfish and invertebrates in all 9 bay systems. Seines are 1.8 m deep and 18.3 m

long with 1.91 mm (¾-inch) stretched mesh webbing in the body and 1.27 mm (½-inch)

stretched mesh webbing in the central bag portion. Bag seines are collected each month

during daylight hours at 20 randomly selected sites in each bay system. Standard lengths

of shoreline are sampled with each seine and samples are stratified temporally over the

month.

Bay trawls (1,680/year) were implemented in 1982 and are used to sample open-water

habitats (≥ 1 m deep) in all 9 bay systems. Trawls are 6.1 m (20-feet headrope) with 3.8

mm (1-½ inch) stretch mesh in the wings and bag. Monthly trawl samples are stratified

temporally and spatially during each month and are taken during daylight hours. Trawls

are towed in a circular motion near the center of each sampling grid (1 minute latitude by

1 minute longitude).

Gulf trawls (960/year) sample the Texas Territorial Sea in an area 15 miles both sides of

the 5 major Gulf passes (Sabine Pass, Bolivar Roads, Matagorda Ship Channel, Aransas

Pass, and Brazos-Santiago Pass (Brazos-Santiago Pass is sampled from an area up to 30

miles north of the Texas-Mexico border)) and was started in 1986. Trawls are towed

linearly, parallel to the fathom curve with tow direction randomly selected for the first

tow and alternated on subsequent tows.

Gill net samples (800/year) are collected seasonally at randomly selected sites in each

bay system and target adult and sub-adult finfish and blue crabs. Each gill net is 1.2 m (4

feet) deep and 182.9 m (600 feet) long with separate 45.7 m (150-foot) sections of 76.2,

121.9, 127.0, and 152.4 mm (3-, 4-, 5- and 6-inch, respectively) stretched monofilament

mesh tied together in ascending order. Nets are set perpendicular to shore with the

smallest mesh nearest shore and allowed to fish overnight. Gill net sampling was

implemented in 1975.

Oyster dredge sampling (1,080/year) is conducted in the 4 major oyster producing bay

systems (Galveston, Matagorda, San Antonio and Aransas) and was implemented in

1986. Reefs which are ≥ 0.2 m higher than adjacent bottom for a continuous distance of

≥ 91.4 m long and 0.4 m wide are randomly selected for sampling each month. Samples

are temporally stratified during the month.

Surface salinity (ppt), water temperature (ºC), dissolved oxygen (mg/l) and turbidity

[Nephelometric Units (NTU)] are taken at the set and pickup for each gill net and prior to

each bag seine. Bottom salinity, water temperature, dissolved oxygen and turbidity is

measured prior to each trawl and oyster dredge. All species collected in sampling gear or

encountered during fishery dependent surveys are identified to lowest taxonomic level,

enumerated and measured. Tissue samples and otoliths are collected from targeted

species for genetic and life history studies.

Other routine monitoring programs include:

Red Tide Sampling – Water samples (120/year) are taken from the farthest Gulf

trawl sample station during each sample period, preserved and tested for the

presence of red tide organisms.

Dermo Monitoring – Implemented in 1998, sub-adult (2.5 – 7.5 mm) and market

size (≥7.6 mm) oysters are monitored monthly from Galveston, Matagorda, San

Antonio and Lavaca Bays for the percent and intensity of infection of the oyster

parasite, dermo (Perkinsus marinus).

Longline Sampling – Implemented in 1992, 402 m longlines are set from March –

May in the Texas Territorial Seas off Corpus Christi, Texas.

Fishery-dependent data are collected through two main programs: Commercial Landings

Program and Sport Harvest Monitoring Program. Commercial fishery landings statistics

are monitored through a mandatory self-reported system where licensed seafood and bait

dealers are required to submit a monthly report listing the water body, total weight and

price paid for each species purchased from commercial fishers. The program is currently

being converted to a Trip Ticket Program where commercial landings data will be

collected on a trip basis from these same dealers.

In addition to collecting monthly landings data, the Division conducts weekly surveys

from May 1 through December 15 at shrimp/bait houses with high landing activity. Data

on count size and catch-per-effort are collected during these surveys. Surveys are also

conducted monthly at finfish dealers in order to collect finfish lengths for use in stock

assessments.

The Sport Harvest Monitoring Program utilizes a scientifically sound statistical method

of annually estimating daytime landings, catch per unit of effort, and size, by species, for

bay and Gulf private-boat anglers and charter-boat anglers. Begun in 1974, it is the

largest and longest running program of its‘ kind in the United States. Interviews of

private-boat and charter boat sport fishermen are conducted at randomly selected boat-

access sites from Sabine Lake to lower Laguna Madre (1,014 survey days/year; over

10,300 interviews conducted during the 2003-2004 fishing year).

Fishery independent and dependent survey data are maintained in a centrally located

relational database after undergoing several quality control and accuracy checks. This

database provides opportunities to conduct coast-wide as well as ecosystem-level

modeling to examine potential management strategies.

.

INLAND FISHERIES DIVISION

The Inland Fisheries Division is responsible for managing and protecting the state's

diverse freshwater fisheries resources, including approximately 800 public

impoundments covering 1.7 million acres and 80,000 miles of rivers and streams. These

resources are used annually by about 1.84 million.

The Division's activities include fisheries management and research, ecosystem and

habitat assessment, regulation of harmful or potentially harmful exotic fish, shellfish, and

aquatic plants (including implementation of the State Aquatic Vegetation Management

Plan), instream flow and river studies, fish production, environmental contaminant

analysis, natural resources damage recovery, wetlands conservation, permitting, angler

education and information, and fishing access. Division staff are located in Austin, San

Marcos, 3 regional offices, 15 district offices, one research center, and 5 fish hatcheries.

This includes the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens.

The Division is also responsible for conducting investigations into fish kills in

freshwater. Area impacted and losses are recorded for each kill. Six major fish kills and

dozens of minor incidents were investigated during 2004. Continued investigations into

the Largemouth Bass Virus problem were conducted.

Lake Management

Fisheries managers estimate relative abundance, size, class structure, and species

composition of fish population and habitat characteristics of approximately 250 of Texas

more than 1900 public water bodies (including approximately 800 impoundments).

Another 150 are managed intermittently. The rest are subject to statewide fisheries

regulations and are managed if and when problems arise. All lakes and reservoirs are

sampled in a similar manner so that data can be compared. Primary sampling methods

include Electrofishing, gill netting, and trap netting. Additionally, procedures such as

creel surveys, hoop netting and seining, as well as age and growth, and electrophoretic

determinations may also be conducted as necessary. Procedures for the three primary

methodologies are given below.

Electrofishing Procedures

• Electrofishing must be conducted in the fall (September-December, preferred surface

water temperature range 60°-74° F).

• Electrofishing must be conducted at night no earlier than 30 minutes after sunset.

Station selection

• Stations and their coordinates must be randomly selected.

• Electrofishing must begin as near to the selected coordinates as possible.

• Suitable water for electrofishing is defined as any area along the shoreline of a

reservoir, including islands, or along the edge of dense aquatic vegetation, that is

accessible by a standard electrofishing boat.

• If a randomly selected shoreline station is found to be unsuitable, flip a coin to

determine left or right direction, then follow the shoreline until suitable water is

encountered.

Sampling activities

• Use pulsed DC current only.

• Station duration consists of 5 minutes of continuous electrofishing.

• Direction of travel and movement within the electrofishing station is left to the

manager‘s discretion to allow for changing wind conditions, etc.

• Collect all target species encountered. Dippers must make equal effort to catch each fish

without favoritism for size.

• Record lake elevation (feet above mean sea level) for survey date.

• Record coordinates (latitude-longitude), conductivity (µmhos), and water temperature

(°C) at each station.

• Record voltage range (high or low setting), percent of voltage range (%), Frequency

(pulses per second), and output current (amps) for each station.

Effort

• Sampling effort (minutes/station) and stations required for reservoir size categories:

Reservoir Size (acres) Sampling Effort (minutes/station) Number of Stations

<5,000 5 12

5,000 - 10,000 5 18

>10,000 5 24

Gill Net Procedures

• Gill net surveys must be conducted during January-June.

• Nets must be set during daylight hours, fished overnight, and retrieved the following

day. The standard unit of effort is a ―net-night‖, which is defined as one net set for one

night (5 net-nights equals 5 nets set overnight at 5 separate stations).

Station selection


• Nets must be set as near to the selected coordinates as possible.

• Suitable water for gill netting is defined as any area within the reservoir that can be

reached by boat and effectively fished with a gill net. Areas of dense cover or anoxic

regions of a deep, stratified reservoir are examples of unsuitable water.

• If a randomly selected shoreline station is found to be unsuitable, flip a coin to

determine left or right direction then follow the shoreline until suitable water is

encountered.

Sampling activities

• All sets (shoreline or open water) must be bottom sets oriented perpendicular (or as

close to perpendicular as possible) to the nearest shoreline with small mesh toward

shore.


• Record coordinates (latitude-longitude), water transparency (secchi disk cm), dissolved

oxygen (mg/l), water depth (m) at the middle of the net, and water temperature (°C) at

each station.

Effort

• Required sampling effort (net-nights) for reservoir size categories:

Reservoir Size (acres) Net-Nights

<5,000 5

5,000 – 10,000 10

>10,000 15

Trap net Procedures

• Trap net surveys must be conducted during September-December(preferred surface

water temperature range 50°-65° F).

• Nets must be set during daylight hours, fished overnight, and retrieved the following

day. The standard unit of effort is a ―net-night‖, which is defined as one net set for one

night (5 net-nights equals 5 nets set overnight at 5 separate stations).

Station selection


• Nets must be set as near to the selected coordinates as possible.

• Suitable water for trap netting is defined as any area along the shoreline of a reservoir,

including islands, where a trap net can be fished free of obstructions (such as brush or

dense aquatic vegetation). Water depth must be sufficient to cover the net.

• If a randomly selected station is found to be unsuitable, flip a coin to determine left or

right direction, and then follow the shoreline until suitable water is encountered.

Sampling activities

• All nets must be shoreline sets oriented perpendicular (or as close to perpendicular as

possible) to the shore.


• Record coordinates (latitude-longitude), water transparency (secchi disk cm), water

depth (m) at cod end of net, and water temperature (°C) at each station.

Effort

Reservoir Size (acres) Net-Nights

<5,000 5

5,000 – 10,000 10

>10,000 15

Fish Stocking

The goals and objectives of the Inland Fisheries Division include providing the public

with a quality fishing experience and managing for big bass. In part the management for

big bass is reliant upon the stocking or incorporating of the Florida largemouth bass gene

into native black bass populations. In 2004 Inland Fish Hatcheries conducted nearly 250

separate stockings, including over 8 million largemouth bass fingerlings. Of those, over

7.5 million were Florida largemouth bass. Nearly 8 million striped bass or hybrid striped

bass were stocked as well, including 4.5 million fry. Other species stocked included blue

catfish, bluegill, channel catfish, rainbow trout, red drum, smallmouth bass, walleye,

walleye x sauger, white bass, and white crappie.

Species

Adults

stocked

Fingerlings

stocked

Fry

stocked Total Blue catfish - adults 200

Bluegill - fingerlings 148,294

Channel catfish - adults 5,487

Channel catfish - fingerlings 482,547

FLMB - adults 297

FLMB - fingerlings 723,166

LMB - fingerlings 573,847

Rainbow trout - adults 200,462

Red drum - fingerlings 849,212

SMB - fingerlings 9,109

Striped bass - fry 2,129,409

Striped bass - fingerlings 1,047,026

Hybrid striped bass - fry 2,507,198

Hybrid striped bass - fingerlings 2,303,490

Walleye 15,693

Walleye x sauger 37,425

White bass 110

White crappie 1,100

Total 207,656 6,189,809 4,636,607 11,034,072

Aquatic Plant Research and Control Program

The Aquatic Plant Research and Control Program resides in the Inland Fisheries

Division. Vegetation management activities in the public waters of Texas are conducted

under the State Aquatic Vegetation Management Plan. The statute authorizing TPWD to

develop and implement the plan is found in the Parks and Wildlife Code subchapter G,

Aquatic Vegetation Management (§§ 11.081-11.086). The plan itself is found under Title

31 of the Texas Administrative Code subchapter K, Aquatic Vegetation Management

Rules, §§ 57.930-57.934 and 57.936 (the State Plan is § 57.932). The statute, the plan,

and additional support information can be found in Aquatic Vegetation Management In

Texas: A Guidance Document at:

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fish/infish/vegetation/guiddoc.pdf

Species of primary concern in Texas at this time are giant salvinia Salvinia molesta, common salvinia Salvinia minima, hydrilla Hydrilla verticillata, water hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes, Eurasian watermilfoil Myriophyllum spicatum, and waterlettuce Pistia stratiodes. Alabama Marine Species Fisheries Independent Monitoring of Interjurisdictional Marine Resources; AMRD/DCNR Freshwater Fishes Reservoir Sampling; WFF/DCNR Stream Monitoring; GSA Fisheries Independent Monitoring of Reservoirs; ADEM Fish Tissue Monitoring; ADEM Freshwater Plants Plant Control; WFF/DCNR

Regional Monitoring Programs

Southeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program

The Southeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program (SEAMAP) is a

state/federal/university program for the collection, management and dissemination of

fishery-independent data and information in the southeastern United States. The overall

program consists of three operational components: SEAMAP-Gulf of Mexico (begun in

1981); SEAMAP-South Atlantic (implemented in 1983); and SEAMAP-Caribbean

(formed in 1988). The SEAMAP-Gulf component is coordinated through the GSMFC.

SEAMAP resource surveys include the Fall Shrimp/Groundfish Survey, Spring Plankton

Survey, Reef Fish Survey, Summer Shrimp/Groundfish Survey, Fall Plankton Survey and

plankton and environmental surveys. Publications of the SEAMAP program include

environmental and biological atlases of the Gulf of Mexico for each year from 1983

through present. There is also an Internet-accessible database containing all SEAMAP

data through 2004. Contacts for the SEAMAP are Jeffrey K. Rester and Cheryl R.

Noble, located at the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission office.

Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program

The Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP) is a research program

to develop the tools necessary to monitor and assess the status and trends of national

ecological resources. The goal of EMAP is to develop the scientific understanding for

translating environmental monitoring data from multiple spatial and temporal scales into

assessments of current ecological condition and forecasts of future risks to our natural

resources.

EMAP aims to advance the science of ecological monitoring and ecological risk

assessment, guide national monitoring with improved scientific understanding of

ecosystem integrity and dynamics, and demonstrate multi-agency monitoring through

large regional projects. EMAP develops indicators to monitor the condition of ecological

resources. EMAP also investigates designs that address the acquisition, aggregation, and

analysis of multiscale and multitier data.

Fisheries Information Network

The Fisheries Information Network (FIN) is a state-federal cooperative program among

agencies to collect, manage, and disseminate statistical data and information on the

commercial and recreational fisheries of the Southeast Region. The FIN is designed to

provide sound scientific information on catch, effort, and participation that managers

need to prudently conserve and manage marine commercial fisheries resources in the

Region. Under this program, there are two distinct components: the Commercial

Fisheries Information Network (ComFIN) and the Recreational Fisheries Information

Network in the Southeast Region [RecFIN(SE)].

Rapid Alert System

A rapid alert system for distributing reports of new non-native/invasive species

occurrences or expanded distribution of known species is important for assuring that

agencies/individuals are appropriately informed. This plan recommends the use of the e-

mail-based NAS Alert System hosted and administered by the US Geological Survey.

Agencies/individuals involved in rapid response processes will register with this system

to receive all alerts issued. The system can be found at http://nas.er.usgs.gov/

AlertSystem.

This plan identifies several existing and ongoing surveys and activities that have the

potential to detect the presence of non-native/invasive aquatic species. This plan does not

evaluate those programs for their applicability, recognizing, however, that such an

activity should be conducted in the future. In addition, this plan does not identify

additional needs for monitoring for early detection, opting to do so after evaluations have

been made of existing programs and activities.

Decision Support and Rapid Scientific Assessment

Before actions can be implemented in the field, a number of items must be considered.

Conclusions derived from this process will include whether or not any field action is

warranted, what level and type of field action, and potential impacts or implications from

proposed field actions. Generally speaking, the establishment in a state of an invasive

species task force or council will significantly enhance the communication and decision

support processes.

Determine the potential ―invasiveness‖ of verified new species in establishing

associated risks;

Determine if the AIS invasion merits a response, by applying a rapid scientific assessment, as part of a decision support system;

Determine if it is possible to respond in an environmentally sound manner to prevent the spread and permanent establishment of the aquatic invasive species;

Ensure that the decision to respond is based on political, economic, social, and technical feasibility;

Establish legal authority, if not already existing, for the parties responsible for decision-making and implementation of the rapid response action;

Ensure justification for rapid response by providing documented evidence for decisions on rapid response, based on an established protocol.

The decision-making process will include access to available information that will provide the decision-making group with informational support for determining if action is required and, if so, what action to take. For example, species accounts, found on both the US Geological Survey and Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission websites, will be useful by providing a number of informational points regarding subject species, including environmental characteristics, life history characteristics, non-native distribution, etc. If there are risk assessments already available for species or pathways that are the subject of a rapid response decision, those documents will support go/no go decisions. In the event of a ―go‖ decision, information on eradication and/or control methods will be needed. Risk assessments and eradication and control methods and techniques will be posted on the invasive species website of the Gulf of Mexico Regional Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species. The following provides an outline of issues associated with eradication and control techniques.

Identify and evaluate available management options for eradication, control, containment, or impact mitigation associated with specific aquatic invasive species or taxonomic groups;

Identify and evaluate management options for containment and quarantine; Determine which management options to implement by assessing the

characteristics and requirements for using various physical/mechanical, biological, or chemical tools approved for application during a rapid response to newly discovered invasions;

Where applicable, secure pre-approval for tools needed to implement management strategies;

Secure access to the permitting process for application regarding scenarios involving high-risk species and generic jurisdictional scenarios;

Encourage research and development to expand the tool kit targeting taxonomic groups where eradication and/or control measures have yet to be developed;

Ensure that all appropriate authorities participate in rapid response planning, to provide the operational and legal support needed to evaluate, select and implement management options.

Florida Decision support and rapid assessment of a rapid response situation will be provided by

the

FISWG for risk assessments for rapid assessment of rapid response situations

FFWCC for introduced Species Issue Team for overall decision-making for fish

and wildlife

FDEP for aquatic plants

FDACS for cultured products Mississippi Until a state aquatic invasive species plan is finalized, state agencies with statutory authority over the resources in question will use all available expertise at their disposal from the academic and scientific community for information and recommendations. Louisiana The LDWF, as the lead agency for the Council, will facilitate the participation of the appropriate agencies in decision-making and conducting rapid scientific assessments. Texas Decision support and rapid scientific assessment will be provided by TPWD in cooperation with Texas Department of Agriculture Texas Agriculture and Experiment Station Texas Soil Conservation Board Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Local Controlling Authorities Alabama

Until a state aquatic invasive species plan is finalized, state agencies with statutory

authority over the resources in question will use all available expertise at their disposal

from the academic and scientific community for information and recommendations.

APPENDIX 1

GENERAL STATE AUTHORITIES

ALABAMA

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

General Authorities

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has general control

over aquatic species. In §9-2-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, the duties of the

department are defined to protect wildlife, initiate studies and to educate the public in

wildlife matters and further expanded in §9-2-7 to include all fish and game within the

jurisdiction of the state. The Commissioner of Conservation is also authorized by §9-2-

13 to prohibit the ―importation of any bird, animal, reptile, amphibian or fish‖ the

importation would not be ―in the best interest of the state‖ and provides a fine for any

person or firm that violates the provision.

All Conservation Enforcement officers are entitled by §9-2-65 (6) to enter ―upon any

land or water in the performance of their duties.‖

Rule 220-2-.26 – Restrictions on Possession, Sale, Importation and/or Release of

Certain Animals and Fish

(1) No person, firm, corporation, partnership, or association shall possess, sell, offer for

sale, import, bring or cause to be brought or imported into the State of Alabama any

of the following live fish or animals:

Any Walking Catfish or any other fish of the genus Clarias;

Any Piranha or any fish of the genus Serrasalums:

Any Black Carp of the genus Mylopharyngodon:

No person, firm, corporation, partnership, or association, shall transport with the state,

any member of the above-stated species (whether such member originated within or

without the state), except for properly licensed game-breeders pursuant to Section 9-11-

31, Code of Alabama 1975.

(2) Turkey provisions . . .

(3) Nutria shall not be propagated or released in this State. No person, firm, or

corporation shall release any Nutria from captivity in this State or propagate any

Nutria for the purpose of stocking in the wild of this State.

(4) Native sturgeon provisions . . .

(5) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to possess a species of

sturgeon not native to Alabama waters, to introduce such a species of sturgeon to

public waters of Alabama, or to offer for sale of import any such non-native sturgeon

in Alabama, except by permit from the Commissioner of the Department of

Conservation and Natural Resources.

(6) It shall be unlawful to possess, sell, offer for sale, import, or release any of the

following fish: Chinese perch (Siniperca spp.), all snakeheads (Channa spp.), all

mud carp (Cirrhinus spp.), or blue back herring (Alosa aestivalis).

Rule 220-2-.93 – Prohibition of Importation/Possession of the Fishes Rudd and

Roach

a. The importation into the State of Alabama of the fish, ―rudd,‖ (Scardinius

erythrophthalmus) or of the fish, ―roach,‖ (Rutilus rutilus), or any hybrids of

either species, by any person, firm, corporation, or other entity, is hereby

prohibited. Any person, firm, corporation, or other entity in violation of the

provisions of this paragraph shall, upon conviction, be punished as provided

by Section 9-2-13, Code of Alabama 1975, as last amended.

b. The possession in the State of Alabama of the fish, ―rudd,‖ (Scardinius

erythrophthalmus) or of the fish, ―roach,‖ (Rutilus rutilus), or any hybrids of

either species, by any person, firm, corporation, or other entity, is hereby

prohibited. Any person, firm, corporation, or other entity in violation of the

provisions of this paragraph shall, upon conviction, be punished as provided

by Section 9-2-13, Code of Alabama 1975, as last amended.

Rule 220-2-.124 – Nonindigenous Aquatic Plant Regulation

For purposes of enforcement of Sections 9-20-1 through 9-20-7, Code of Alabama 1975,

enacted by Act No. 95-767, as the Alabama Nonindigenous Aquatic Plant Control Act,‖

the following list of all nonindigenous aquatic plants which are prohibited by Section 9-

20-3 from being introduced or placed or caused to be introduced or placed into public

waters of the state is established:

COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

African elodea Lagarosiphon spp

alligatorweed Alternathera philoxeriodes

Brazilian elodea Egeria densa

curlyleaf pondweed Potamogeton crispus

Eurasian watermilfoil Myriophyllum spicatum

floating waterhyacinth Eichhornia crassipes

giant salvinia Salvinia molesta

hydrilla Hydrilla verticillata

hygrophila Hygrophila polysperma

limnophila Limnophila sessiliflora

parrot-feather Myriophyllum aquaticum

purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria

rooted waterhyacinth Eichhornia azurea

spinyleaf naiad Najas minor

water-aloe Stratiotes aloides

water-lettuce Pistia stratiotes

water-chestnut Trapa natans

water-spinich Ipomea aquatica

Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries

General Authority

The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has statutory authority through

the Code of Alabama Chapter 80-10-14, Noxious Weed Rules.

80-10-l4-.13 Federal Rules Adopted

80-10-14-MI Determination Of Problem And Establishment Of Quarantine.

(1) It has been found and determined that certain noxious weeds defined as plant pests

under provisions of Section 2-25-1 (2) Code of Ala. 1975 exist in limited areas of

Alabama and other states, or have the potential to enter Alabama from other states and

foreign countries. It has also been found and determined that noxious weeds would be

extremely injurious to Alabama‘s horticultural, agricultural, aquatic, forestry, wildlife,

tourism and recreational industries should they be introduced or further disperse within

the state and that a quarantine against said noxious weeds would be in the best interests of

the state of Alabama.

(2) Due to the above findings and determination, a quarantine against noxious weeds

defined herein is hereby established.

Author: Reginald L. Sorrells

Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §2-25-4.

History: New Rule: Filed August 11, 2000; effective September 15, 2000.

80-10-14.02 Definitions. For the purposes of this quarantine, the following

definitions shall apply:

(1) Administrator - The Plant Pest Administrator of the Alabama Department of

Agriculture and

Industries, Plant Protection Section.

(2) Board - The State of Alabama, Board of Agriculture and Industries.

(3) Certificate - A document issued by an Inspector to allow the movement of non

contaminated regulated articles to any destination.

(4) Class A - Any noxious weed on the Federal Noxious Weed List, or any noxious weed

that is not native to the State, not currently known to occur in the State, and poses a

serious threat to the State.

(5) Class B - My noxious weed that is not native to the State, is of limited distribution

statewide, and poses a serious threat to the State.

(6) Class C - Any other designated noxious weed which poses harm to Alabama‘s

various industries.

(7) Commissioner - The Commissioner of the State of Alabama, Department of

Agriculture and Industries or his authorized representative.

(8) Compliance Agreement - A written agreement between a person engaged in growing,

handling, or moving regulated articles and the State of Alabama, Department of

Agriculture and Industries, Plant Protection Section, wherein the former agrees to comply

with the requirements of the compliance agreement.

(9) Infestation - The presence of a noxious weed in any stage of development, including

but not limited to seed and rhizomes the presence of which shall be considered evidence

of a noxious weed.

(10) Inspector - My authorized employee of the State of Alabama, Department of

Agriculture and Industries, Plant Protection Section, or any other person authorized by

the Commissioner to enforce the provisions of this chapter.

(11) Limited Permit - A document issued by an Inspector to allow the movement of

noncertified regulated articles to a specified destination for special handling, utilization,

or processing, or for treatment.

(12) Noxious Weed - My living stage, including, but not limited to, seeds and productive

parts of a parasitic or other plant of a kind, or subdivision of a kind, which may be a

serious agricultural threat in Alabama. Evidence of noxious weed shall be considered a

public nuisance.

(13) Regulated Article - My noxious weed or any article listed herein which is capable of

carrying a noxious weed.

(14) Regulated Area - Any state or territory or any portion thereof of the United States

described herein which is infested with a noxious weed.

(15) Scientific Permit - A document issued by the Administrator to authorize the

movement of regulated articles to a specified destination for scientific purposes.




80-1O-14-.03 Quarantine Imposed. Upon the findings and determinations set out in

Rule No. 80-10-14-.01, it is Hereby Declared under the provisions of Section 2-25-4,

Code of Ala. 1975, that a quarantine be imposed upon the noxious weeds set out in this

quarantine, subject to the conditions imposed by this quarantine.




80-10-14-.04 Noxious Weeds. For the purposes of this quarantine, the following articles

are hereby deemed to be regulated:

(I) Class A Noxious Weeds.

(a) All weeds listed in 7 C.F.R. 3 60.200 Federal Noxious Weed List, the same of

which is hereby incorporated by reference herein including its subsequent amendments

and editions.

(b) Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

(c) Air-potato (Dioscorea bulbifera)

(d) Old world climbing fern (Lygodium microphyllium)

(e) Mile-a-minute (Polygonum perfoliatum)

(f) Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

(2) Class B Noxious Weeds.

(a) Japanese climbing fern (Lygodiun japonicum)

(b) Purple loosestrife (Lvthrum salicaria)

(c) Skunk vine (Paederia foetida)

(3) Class C Noxious Weeds.

(a) Alligatorweed (Althernanthera philoxeroides)

(b) Balloon vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum)

(c) Brazilian elodea (Egeria densa)

(d) Curlyleaf pondweed (Potamgeton crispus)

(e) Floating waterhyacinth (Eichornia crassipes)

(f Hairy crabgrass, mulberry weed (Fatoua villosa)

(g) Mary‘s grass, Japanese grass (Microstegium vimineum)

(h) Parrotfeather, watermilfoil (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

(i) Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)

(j) Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)

(k) Torpedo grass (Panicum repens)

(l) Phragmites, common reed (Phragmites australis)

(m) Longstalked phyllanthus (Phyllanthus tenellus)

(n) Chamberbitter, niuri (Phyllanthus urinaria)

(o) Japanese knotweed, Japanese bamboo (Polygonum cuspidatum)

(p) Multiflora rose (Rosa multifiora)

(q) Spinyleaf naiad (Najas minor)

(r) Water-aloe (Stratlotes aloides)

(s) Water-lettuce (Pistia stratiodes)

(t) Water Chestnut (Trapa natans)


Statutory Authority: Code of Ala 1975, §2-25-4.


80-1O-14-.05 Regulated Areas.

(1) Except as permitted in 80-10-14-.07 and 80-10-14-.08 below, the following is

prohibited:

(a) The movement of Class A, B, or C noxious weeds or any regulated article infested

with Class A, B, or C noxious weeds into or within Alabama is prohibited.

(2) Other regulated areas.

(a) The Commissioner may take action as authorized under 2-25-4 and 2-25-5, Code of

Ala. 1975 to designate as a regulated area any state or portion of a state in which there is

reasonable cause to believe that a noxious weed exists, and there is an immediate need to

prevent its introduction, spread or dissemination in Alabama.

(b) The Commissioner may take action as authorized under 2-25-4 and 2-25-5 Code of

Ala. 1995 to designate as a regulated area any county or portion thereof of the state of

Alabama in which there is reasonable cause to believe that a noxious weed exists, and

there is an immediate need to prevent its dissemination within Alabama.



History: New Rule: Filed August 11,2000; effective September 15, 2000.

8O-1O-14-.06 Regulated Articles. The following articles are regulated under the

provisions of this Section:

(1) Soil, compost, peat, humus, muck, decomposed manure, sand, and gravel, either

separately or mixed with other articles; except that potting soil commercially prepared

and free of noxious weed seed, packaged and shipped in original containers is not a

regulated article;

(2) Nursery stock including growing media (houseplants grown in a home and not for

sale are excluded);

(3) Grass sod;

(4) Used mechanized soil-moving equipment, cultivating equipment and harvesting

machinery, except when decontaminated and cleaned free of soil;

(5) Hay, straw, or other material of a similar nature;

(6) Any means of conveyance of any noxious weed when such conveyance is determined

by the Administrator to present a hazard of spread of noxious weeds and the person in

possession of such conveyance has been so notified.




8O-1O-14-.07 Conditions Governing The Movement Of Regulated Articles.

(1) A certificate or permit must accompany the movement of regulated articles from

regulated areas into Alabama.

(2) A certificate or permit must accompany the movement of regulated articles from a

regulated area in Alabama to a non-regulated area in Alabama.




8O-1O-14-.08 Issuance Of Certificates And Limited Permits.

(1) Certificates may be issued by an inspector for the movement of regulated articles

under the following conditions:

(a) In the judgment of the inspector, they have not been exposed to infestation.

(b) They have been examined and found to be free of noxious weeds.

(c) They have been treated under the direction of the inspector with approved control

measures known to be effective under the conditions applied.

(d) They have been grown, produced, stored, or handled in such a manner that, in the

judgment of the inspector, designated noxious weeds would not be transmitted by

movement of the article.

(2) Limited permits may be issued by an inspector for the movement of noncertified

regulated articles to specified destinations for limited handling utilization, processing or

treatment when the inspector determines no hazard of spread of noxious weeds exists.

(3) Scientific permits may be issued by the Administrator to allow the movement of

noxious weeds in any living stage and any regulated articles for scientific purposes under

such conditions as may be prescribed in each specific case by the Administrator.

(4) As a condition of issuance of certificates or limited permits for the movement of

regulated articles, any person engaged in purchasing, assembling, exchanging, handling,

processing, utilizing, treating, or moving such articles may be required to sign a

compliance agreement stipulating that he will maintain such safeguards against the

establishment and spread of infestation and comply with such conditions as to the

maintenance of identity, handling and subsequent movement of such articles, and the

cleaning and treatment of means of conveyance and containers used in the transportation

of such articles as may be required by the Administrator.


Statutory Authority: Code of A1a. 1975, §2-25-4.


80-1O-14-.09 Cancellation Of Certificates And Limited Permits. Any certificate,

limited permit, scientific permit or compliance agreement which has been issued or

authorized may be canceled by the Administrator or the inspector if he determines that

the holder has not complied with conditions for its use.




80-10-14-.10 Inspection and Disposal. Any inspector is authorized to stop and inspect,

any person or means of conveyance moving within or from the State of Alabama upon

probable cause to believe that such means of conveyance or articles are infested with a

noxious weed; and, such inspector is authorized to seize, treat, or otherwise dispose of

articles found to be moving in violation of these rules.




80-10-14-.11 Development Of Specific Control On Eradication

Programs. Due to the great variation and diversity of noxious weeds and habitats in

which noxious weeds might be detected, the Administrator is authorized to develop and

implement control and/or eradication strategies as necessary to protect the State‘s

agricultural, horticultural, aquacultural wildlife, tourism, forestry and recreational

industries.


Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §2~25-4.


80-10-14-.12 Violations. Any person violating the provisions herein shall be subject to

the penalties imposed under Section 2-25-22, Code of Ala. 1975.




80-10-14-.13 Federal Rules Adopted. The Noxious Weed Regulations of the Code of

Federal Regulations (7 CFR 360.200), revised as of January 1, 1999, as they are now

written or as the same may hereafter be revised or amended, are hereby expressly adopted

by reference thereto as a part of these regulations. Copies of this reference may be

obtained from the Administrator.

Author Reginald L. Sorrells



FEDERAL NOXIOUS WEED LIST as of 09/08/2000

Aquatic/Wetland

Azolla pinnata (Azollaceae) (mosquito fern, water velvet)

Caulerpa taxifolia (Caulerpaceae)(Mediterranean clone of caulerpa)

Eichhornia azurea (Ponterderiaceae) (anchored waterhyacinth)

Hydrilla verticilata (Hydrocharitaceae) (hydrilla)

Hygrophila polysperma (Acanthaceae) (Miramar weed)

Ipomoea aquatica (Convolvulaceae) (Chinese waterspinach)

Lagarosiphon major (Hydrocharitaceae) (Oxygen weed)

Limnophila sessiliflora (Scrophulariaceae) (ambulia)

Melaleuca quinquenervia (Myrtaceae) (melaleuca)

Monochoria hastata (Pontederiaceac) (monochoria)

Monochoria vaginalis (Pontederiaceae) (pickerel weed)

Ottelia alismoides (Hydrocharitaceae) (duck-lettuce)

Sagittaria sagittifolia (Alismataceae) (arrowhead)

Salvinia auriculata (Salviniaceae) (giant salvinia)

Salvinia biloba (Salviniaceae) (giant salvinia)

Salvinia herzogii (Salviniaceae) (giant salvinla)

Salvinia molesta (Salviniaceae) (giant salvinia)

Solanum tampicense (Solanaceae)(wetland nightshade)

Sparganium erectum (Sparganiaceae) (exotic bur-reed)

Parasitic

Aeginetia spp. (Orobanchaceae)

Alectra spp. (Scrophulariaceae)

Cuscuta spp. other than native or widely distributed species (Cuscutaceae)(dodders)

Orobanche spp. other than native or widely distributed species (Orobanchaceae)

(broomrapes)

Striga spp. (Scrophulariaceae) (witchweeds)

Terrestrial

Ageratina adenophora (Asteraceae) (crofton weed)

Alternanthera sessilis (Amaranthaceae) (sessile joyweed)

Asphodelus fistulosus (Liliaceae) (onionweed)

Avena sterilis L. (Poaceae) (animated or wild oat)

Spermacoce alata (Rnbiaceae) (borreria)

Carthamus oxyacanthus (Asteraceae) (wild safflower)

Chrysopogon aciculatus (Poaceae) (pilipiliula)

Commelina benghalensis (Commetinaceae) (Benghal dayflower)

Crupina vulgaris (Asteraceae) (common crupina)

Digitaria abyssinica (=D. scalarum) (Poaceae) (African couch grass)

Digitaria velutina (Poaceae) (velvet fingergrass)

Drymaria arenarioides (Caryophyllaceae) (lightening weed, alfombrilla)

Emex australis (Polygonaceae) (three-cornered jack)

Emex spinosa (Polygonaceae) (devil‘s thorn)

Galega officinalis (Fabaceae) (goatsrue)

Heracleum mantegazzianum (Apiaceae) (giant hogweed)

Homeria spp. (lridaceae) (Cape tulip)

Imperata brasiliensis (Poaceac) (Brazilian satintail)

Imperata cylindrica (Poaceae) (cogongrass)

Ischaemum rugosum (Poaceac) (murain-grass)

Leptochloa chinensis (Poaceac) (Asian sprangletop)

Lycium ferocissimum (Solanaceae) (African boxthorn)

Melastoma malabathricm (Melastomataceac) (no common name)

Mikania cordata (Asteraceae) (mile-a-minute)

Mikania micrantha (Asteraceae) (mile-a-minute)

Mimosa invisa (Fabaccae) (giant sensitive plant)

Mimosa pigra Wabaceae) (catclaw mimosa)

Nassella trichotoma (Poaceae) (serrated tussock)

Opuntia aurantiaca (Cactaceae) (jointed prickly pear)

Oryza longistaminata (Poaceae) (red rice)

Oryza punctata (Poaccae) (red rice)

Ozyza rufipogon (Poaceae) (red rice)

Paspalum scrobiculatum (Poaceae) (Kodo-millet)

Pennisetum clandestinum (Poaceae) (kikuyugrass)

Pennisetum macrourum (Poaceae) (African feathergrass)

Pennisetum pedicellatum (Poaceae) (kyasuma-grass)

Pennisetum polystachion (Poaceae) (missiongrass)

Prosopis alapataco (Fahaceae) (Prosopis spp. are mesquites)

Prosopis argentina

Prosopis articulata

Prosopis burkartii

Prosopis caldenia

Prosopis calingastana

Prosopis campestris

Prospis castellanosii

Prosopis denudans

Prosopis elata

Prosopis farcta

Prosopis ferox

Prosopis fiebrigii

Prosopis hassleri

Prosopis humilis

Prosopis kuntzei

Prosopis pallida

Prosopis palmeri

Prosopis reptans

Prosopis rojasiana

Prosopis ruizlealii

Prosopis ruscfolia

Prosopis sericantha

Prosopis strombulifera

Prosopis torquata

Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Poaceae) (itchgrass)

Rubus fruticosus (Rosaceae) (wild blackberry complex)

Rubus moluccanus (Rosacese) (wild blackberry)

Saccharum spontaneum (Poaceae) (wild sugarcane)

Salsola vermiculata (Chenopodiaceae) (wormleaf salsola)

Setaria pallide-fusca (Poaceae) (cattail grass)

Solanum torvum (Solanaceae) (turkeyberry)

Solanum viarum (Solanaceae) (tropical soda apple)

Tridax procumbens (Asteraceae) (coat buttons)

Urochloa panicoides (Poaceae) (liverseed grass)

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks

General Authorities The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks has general control and

management authority over aquatic species. Under Miss. Code Ann. ' 49-7-80, it is

illegal to Aplace, release or cause to be released into any of the public waters of the state

any aquatic species without first obtaining a permit from the Mississippi Department of

Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.@ Furthermore, Ano person shall release or cause to be

released within this state, any animal not indigenous to Mississippi without first obtaining

a permit from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.@ A violation

of this provision is a misdemeanor.

Before issuing or denying a permit, the Department must Acomplete a study of the species

to determine any detrimental effect the species might have on the environment.@ The

Department is also authorized to establish and maintain Aa list of approved, restricted and

prohibited species and establish rules governing importation, possession, sale and escape

of those species.@ The Commission may also issue permits to kill any species of animals

or native, nonmigratory birds that may become injurious to agricultural or other interests

in any particular community. (Miss. Code Ann. ' 49-1-39).

Aquaculture

The ACommission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks . . . may promulgate regulations which

specify design criteria to protect the resources within [its] jurisdiction and to prevent the

release of undesirable species from an aquaculture facility into the environment.@ (Miss.

Code Ann. 79-22-15).

Private Shooting Preserves

The Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Ais authorized to specify the species of

non-native wild game that may be released or hunted in commercial wildlife enclosures.@ (Miss. Code Ann. ' 49-11-15(3)).

Nutria Control ―Any board of supervisors may, in its discretion, by appropriate resolution spread upon

its minutes, offer a bounty not to exceed Five Dollars ($ 5.00) for each nutria, beaver or

bobcat destroyed, where such board finds and determines that nutria, beaver or bobcats

are in such quantities that the preservation of trees and other properties requires such

bounties to be offered.@ (Miss. Code Ann. ' 19-5-51). The Department is responsible for

redeeming receipts issued by the sheriffs upon the presentation of the complete tail of the

animal.

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources

General Authority

The Commission on Marine Resources (Commission) has the authority Ato exercise full

jurisdiction and authority over all marine aquatic life and to regulate any matters

pertaining to seafood, including cultivated seafood@ and to adopt Arules and regulations

necessary for the protection, conservation or propagation of all seafood in the waters

under the territorial jurisdiction of the State of Mississippi@ (Miss. Code Ann. ' 79-15-

15). Section 49-15-11 vests the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR)

with the authority Ato manage, control, supervise, enforce and direct any matters

pertaining to saltwater aquatic life and marine resources under the jurisdiction of the

commission.@

Coastal Wetland Protection Act

Section 49-27-3 states Ait is declared to be the public policy of this state to favor the

preservation of the natural state of the coastal wetlands and their ecosystems and to

prevent the despoliation and destruction of them, except where a specific alteration of

specific coastal wetlands would serve a higher public interest in compliance with the

public purposes of the public trust in which coastal wetlands are held (49-27-9).@ No

regulated activity, including the AKilling or materially damaging any flora or fauna on or

in any coastal wetland@ and Athe erection of any structure or structures on suitable sites

for water dependent industry,@ shall affect any coastal wetlands without a permit unless

excluded in Section 49-27-7 (Miss. Code Ann. '' 49-27-7 and 49-27-9). In granting a

permit under this chapter, the Commission may impose conditions or limitations on the

proposed activity designed to carry out the public policy set forth in this chapter (Miss.

Code Ann. ' 49-27-29).@ The Commission Amay require a performance bond in an

amount to be set by the commission with surety and satisfactory conditions securing to

the state compliance with the conditions and limitations set forth in any permit (Miss.

Code Ann. '49-27-31).@

Aquaculture

Under the Aquaculture Act, the ACommission on Marine Resources may promulgate

regulations which specify design criteria to protect the resources within [its] jurisdiction

and to prevent the release of undesirable species from an aquaculture facility into the

environment (Miss. Code Ann. 79-22-15).@ Ordinance 13.001, An Ordinance to Regulate

Aquaculture in the Marine Environment, contains MDMR=s aquaculture regulations.

Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce

Aquaculture Under the Mississippi Aquaculture Act of 1988, an aquaculturist is required to obtain

from the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) a cultivation

and marketing permit to produce products from Aall nonnative aquatic plants and animals,

including those that are well established in limited or extensive areas of natural lakes,

rivers and streams in this state (Miss. Code Ann. ' 79-22-9(1)(a)).@ MDAC=s Guidelines

for Aquaculture Activities contains a listing of species of animals and plants that the

Department has Adetermined to be detrimental to the State=s native resources.@ The

importation, sale, possession, transport, or release of the listed species or hybrids thereof

is prohibited. The list includes piranhas, Nile perches, snakeheads, hydrilla, water

hyacinth, and zebra mussels.

In the event of a release or escape of a non-native species from a permitted facility,

MDAC is required to notify the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The DWFP

is authorized to conduct removal and eradication activities. The DWFP may also seek

reimbursement for the cost associated with eradication efforts from the aquaculturist if

the release was due to the aquaculturist=s negligence or mismanagement.

Plant Pests The Department of Agriculture and Commerce has regulatory authority over plant

diseases and pests and noxious weeds. The Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce

may issue rules and regulations under which the Department=s inspectors Ashall (a)

inspect places, plants and plant products, and things, and substances used or connected

therewith, (b) investigate, control, eradicate and prevent the dissemination of insect pests,

diseases and noxious weeds, and (c) supervise or cause the treatment, cutting and

destruction of plants and plant products and other things infested or infected therewith

(Miss. Code Ann. '69-25-7) .@ The Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, Ashall

list the insect pests, diseases and noxious weeds, of which he shall find that the

introduction into, or the dissemination within, this state should be prevented in order to

safeguard the environment, agricultural and horticultural production and the plants and

plant products of this state, together with the plants and plant products and other things

likely to become infested or infected with such insect pests, diseases and noxious weeds

(Miss. Code Ann. ' 69-25-9).@ The MDAC maintains lists of certain insects and diseases

declared to be public nuisances (MDAC Plant Pest Programs Rule 1) and insects, pests,

and diseases declared to be especially injurious (Rule 2). Any person having knowledge

of the presence of a listed pest, disease, or noxious weed is required to report its presence

to the Commission or an inspector. Any person engaging in the sale of plants and plant

products infested, infected, or likely to become so, shall report the name and location of

persons and localities where he purchased or obtained such plants and plant products.

In general, the owner or other person in possession or control of the place where a plant

or plant product infested or infected with any insect, pest, disease, or noxious weed listed

as a public nuisance is found is required to undertake control, eradication or other

measures to prevent the dissemination of such pest, disease or weed. If an owner cannot

be found or fails to take measures upon written notification by the Department, required

measures shall be carried out by the Department (Miss. Code Ann. ' 69-25-15).

AIt shall be unlawful for any person to sell, give away, carry, ship, or deliver for carriage

or shipment within this state, any plants or plant products . . . unless such plant or plant

products or other thing or substance have been officially inspected and a certificate issued

by an inspector of the commissioner stating that the plants or plant products or other

thing or substance have been inspected and found to be apparently free from insect pests,

diseases and noxious weeds, and any other facts provided for in the rules and regulations

made pursuant to this statute (Miss. Code Ann. ' 69-25-19).@

Louisiana State Authorities

Agricultural Commodities The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) has jurisdiction over

agricultural commodities in Louisiana. Agricultural commodities include sugar, cotton,

all agricultural products commonly classified as grain, including rice, rough rice, corn,

wheat, oats, rye, soybeans, barley, milo, and grain sorghum, and any other agricultural

commodity or other farm product which the Agricultural Commodities Commission may

declare a commodity by regulation.

Apiaries The Department of Agriculture and Forestry has jurisdiction over bees and requires

beekeepers to register with the Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry each year.

LDAF may enter any warehouse or other premises to inspect any honeybees or

beekeeping equipment when there is probable cause that the bees or beekeeping

equipment are infected with a contagious or infectious disease or to ascertain whether the

bees have been transported in violation of the law. LDAF may inspect honeybees or

beekeeping equipment shipped into Louisiana, even if a certificate of inspection

accompanies the honeybees or beekeeping equipment from another state. If any

honeybees or beekeeping equipment are brought into Louisiana in violation of the law,

LDAF may require their removal. If LDAF finds any honeybees or beekeeping

equipment infected with or exposed to any contagious or infectious diseases, it may

require their destruction, treatment, or disinfection.

Aquaculture and Mariculture The purpose of this portion of the State Jurisdictions section is to clarify the jurisdiction

over non-native fish species used in aquaculture facilities in Louisiana. Jurisdiction in

this area recently changed when the legislature passed an aquaculture bill creating the

Louisiana Aquaculture Coordinating Council.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has jurisdiction over the

permitting process of mariculture in Louisiana's coastal zone and over the harvest of

mariculture fish. LDWF shares jurisdiction over aquaculture with the Louisiana

Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ.) LDEQ regulates Concentrated Aquatic

Animal Production Facilities (CAAPF), which means "a hatchery, fish farm, or other

facility" with fish or other aquatic animals in ponds, raceways, or other similar structures

which discharge at least 30 days per year. The CAAPF definition does not include

facilities of cold-water fish species that produce less than 9,090 harvest weight kilograms

of aquatic animals per year and that feed less than 2,272 kilograms of food during the

calendar month of maximum feeding. For facilities that produce warm-water fish

species, the CAAPF definition does not include facilities with closed ponds that

discharge only in periods of excess runoff or facilities that produce less than 45,454

harvest weight kilograms of aquatic animals per year. However, despite these

exemptions, LDEQ may still designate a facility as a CAAPF if LDEQ determines that it

"significantly contributes" to pollution in state waters. If a facility is designated as a

CAAPF then it is a point source subject to the Louisiana Pollution Discharge Elimination

System (LPDES) permit program, which is administered by LDEQ. Discharges into

aquaculture projects also are subject to the LPDES permit program.

The Louisiana Aquacultural Development Act (LADA) will develop a modern,

sustainable aquaculture industry in the state through a regulatory program ―that allows for

the development of current and future aquacultural production, while at the same time

protecting the native fish and aquatic life and wildlife and their natural habitat.‖ The

primary mechanism by which this will be accomplished is through the Louisiana

Aquaculture Coordinating Council (LACC), which is housed within LDAF. The LACC

consists of 15 members appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry

(hereinafter referred to as the Commissioner) and confirmed by the state Senate. The

powers of the LACC are to:

Develop and advise a regulatory framework for the growth and maintenance of

sustainable aquaculture in the state and to promote aquaculture and related

products;

Determine and recommend to the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, based on

scientific assessment, which species of aquatic livestock are suitable for

aquaculture in the state;

Recommend to the Commissioner criteria for requiring licenses and permits and

for granting or denying licenses and permits;

Hold hearings on alleged violations of the LADA or of rules and regulations

pursuant thereto;

Advise the Commissioner on civil penalties that may be imposed or injunctive or

other civil relief that may be sought for violations; and

Perform other advisory functions assigned to the LACC by the Commissioner.

The LADA specifies a process for the determination of whether species of aquatic

livestock are suitable for aquaculture in Louisiana. The LACC initiates the process by

making a preliminary proposal regarding the species under consideration which must be

approved by a majority vote. No rule or regulation may be promulgated except following

a recommendation by the LACC that a species of aquatic livestock is suitable for

aquaculture in the state. The LACC then holds a public meeting equipped with all

reasonably available scientific data. If a recommendation is approved at a public meeting

by a majority of the LACC, a detailed report is produced that contains specific

recommendations, reasons for the recommendations, and proposed regulations.

A copy of the recommendations is then sent to the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission

and to other interested state agencies and parties. This commission considers the LACC‘s

recommendations and determines suitability for aquaculture and, if approved, adopts

rules and regulations deemed reasonable or necessary to prevent the species from having

a detrimental impact on the state‘s natural resources. No species can be authorized as

suitable for aquaculture and deemed aquatic livestock except by rules and regulations

adopted by the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, or, if it fails to act within 90 days

following submission of the LACC‘s report, by the Commissioner. During this 90-day

period, the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission takes one of three actions: (1) approval of

the LACC‘s recommendations, (2) approval with modifications, or (3) rejection. After the

Wildlife and Fisheries Commission adopts rules and regulations, or if it fails to act within

the 90-day period, the Commissioner may proceed with rulemaking. The law specifically

does not allow the Commissioner to lessen requirements imposed by the Wildlife and

Fisheries Commission or provide a waiver thereof. If the Wildlife and Fisheries

Commission modifies or rejects the LACC‘s recommendations, the Commissioner and

Secretary of Wildlife and Fisheries (hereinafter referred to as the Secretary) can jointly

decide whether to accept the action taken by the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. If

the Commissioner and Secretary do not accept the commission‘s action, they can jointly

present a revised recommendation to the commission, which may decide to accept it,

accept it with modifications, or reject it. The LACC or the Commissioner and Secretary

may submit an unlimited number of recommendations regarding a particular species to

the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. However, the LACC, Commissioner, or

Secretary may seek judicial review of the commission‘s actions in the Nineteenth Judicial

Circuit Court after the recommendation has been submitted to the commission more than

three times. The criteria used by the LACC, LDWF, Wildlife and Fisheries Commission,

and Commissioner to determine the suitability of a species for aquaculture are:

Whether the species is established in Louisiana;

Whether the aquacultural production and marketing of the species is viable and

sustainable;

Whether the species can be produced, maintained, and harvested in such a manner

to minimize escape into the wild;

Any other scientific data regarding the species, including the potential to harm

Louisiana‘s natural resources; and

Whether LDWF can insure the enforcement of rules and regulations regarding

gamefish and maintenance and preservation of the species to the same extent as

existed prior to July 1, 2004.

The LADA requires every aquatic producer of a suitable species of aquatic livestock to

obtain a license from LDAF for each facility owned or operated by the aquatic producer.

Each license is renewed annually. Prior to approval and issuance of a license, LDAF and

LDWF jointly inspect each facility to determine that aquatic livestock producers are in

compliance with rules and regulations. Licensed aquatic producers are required to

maintain and preserve records pursuant to rules and regulations. The Commissioner may

issue a stop order prohibiting the production, harvesting, distribution, sale, application,

movement, or disturbance of any aquatic livestock or products derived from aquatic

livestock to prevent a violation or continued violation of LADA or its rules and

regulations. Any person aggrieved by a stop order has the right to petition for a hearing

on the matter. Any person who violates the LADA or its rules and regulations or any

provision of a stop order is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for each

violation and for each day of violation. Violators may have their licenses or permits

suspended, revoked, or placed on probation, in addition to other penalties, including

reimbursing the state or appropriate state agencies any costs incurred by them in

destroying, removing, containing, or monitoring the release or discharge of aquatic

livestock eggs, larvae, juveniles, or adults, or of their waste or unpurified water releases.

Moreover, action brought for a civil violation does not preclude criminal prosecution for

the same violation.

Aquatic Plants The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries uses monies from

the Aquatic Plant Control Fund for the purposes of aquatic weed control and eradication.

Coastal Zone of Louisiana The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR)

has jurisdiction over coastal management, coastal restoration, mineral resources, oilfield

site restoration, the fisherman's gear compensation fund, and the Oyster Lease Damage

Evaluation Board. With respect to LDNR's Office of Mineral Resources, operating

agreements relating to state-owned lands and water bottoms must follow the rules set

forth by LDWF for the protection of oysters, fish, and wildlife. LDNR administers the

Louisiana Coastal Wetlands Conservation and Restoration Act. Among other

responsibilities, LDNR:

acquires by purchase, donation, or otherwise any land needed for wetlands and

coastal restoration or conservation projects and other property required for the

operation of the projects;

develops procedures to evaluate new and improved coastal restoration and

preservation technologies;

coordinates coastal restoration efforts with local governments, interest groups,

and the public; and

develops, implements, operates, maintains, and monitors coastal restoration plans

and projects.

LDNR also administers the Louisiana Coastal Zone Management Program. LDNR

develops the overall state coastal management program, as well as coastal use guidelines

that are developed in conjunction with LDWF. Additional jurisdiction of LDNR includes

receiving and evaluating Coastal Use Permit applications, issuing Coastal Use Permits,

monitoring and conducting surveillance of permitted uses to ensure that conditions of

coastal use permits are satisfied; coordinating with local, state, regional, and federal

agencies on coastal management matters; and providing advice and technical assistance

to local governments. However, LDNR is not the only agency that may be involved in

permitting projects in the coastal zone; permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

(USACE) and LDEQ also may be required. In addition to a Coastal Use Permit, an

applicant also may be required to obtain permits from USACE pursuant to Section 404 of

the Clean Water Act if dredging or filling is required and Section 10 of the Rivers and

Harbors Act if the project will obstruct navigable waters. An applicant may be required to

apply for a Water Quality Certification permit from LDEQ if there will be a discharge

into state waters.

No part of the Louisiana Coastal Zone Management Program is intended to curtail the

authority of any other state department or agency. Permits issued pursuant to LDNR's

statutory authority for the location, drilling, exploration, and production of oil, gas, or

other minerals are issued in lieu of Coastal Use Permits, provided that there is

coordination during the permitting process and assurances that all permitted activities are

consistent with coastal use guidelines, the state program, and any affected local program.

Permits issued pursuant to LDWF‘s statutory authority for leasing, seeding, cultivating,

planting, harvesting, or marking of oyster bedding grounds are issued in lieu of Coastal

Use Permits, provided that LDWF coordinates with LDNR during the permitting process

and ensures that all permitted activities are consistent with coastal use guidelines, the

state program, and any affected local program.

Communicable Diseases The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) provides for an

immunization program to prevent the occurrence or spread of communicable diseases and

also provides for the reporting, investigation, application, and implementation of

appropriate control measures that include isolation and/or quarantine measures for all

communicable diseases of public health significance. LDHH also has jurisdiction over

regulating the carriage and transport of persons, freight, and dead bodies brought into the

state or transported in or through the state that may affect the public health.

Dredge and Fill Activities and Commercial Shell Dredging Jurisdiction over dredge and fill activities in Louisiana is shared between state agencies

and the USACE. The USACE retains jurisdiction over dredge and fill activities that affect

navigable waters pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Section 404 gives the

USACE jurisdiction over the issuance of permits for the discharge of dredged or fill

material at specified disposal sites. If the project that requires dredge and fill activity

obstructs navigation, then a Section 10 permit from the USACE pursuant to the Rivers

and Harbors Act also will be required. If a dredge and fill activity will occur in

Louisiana's coastal zone, then LDNR has jurisdiction over the state permitting process.

State permits are required in addition to federal permits.

Pursuant to the Louisiana Water Discharge Permit System (LWDPS), LDEQ has

jurisdiction over discharge from commercial dredging of shell and other natural

resources. However, the scope of LDEQ's jurisdiction via the LWDPS program does not

include permitting the discharge into state waters of dredged or fill material resulting

from activities that are permitted by USACE, such as channel dredging and construction.

Dredge and fill activities are included in the definition of "water pollution" in Title 33 of

the Louisiana Administrative Code as "substances in concentrations which tend to

degrade the ... integrity of such waters [of the state]." Therefore, LDEQ has some

jurisdiction over dredge and fill activities pursuant to the Clean Water Act's Section 401

water quality certification authority. In order to fulfill the purposes of the Louisiana

Water Control Law and Section 401, LDEQ has an established procedure for issuing

water quality certifications (WQC) for the state. USACE will not issue a Section 404

permit without WQC from LDEQ. One of the application criteria for WQC is "the nature

of the activity to be conducted by the applicant, including estimates of volume of

excavation for dredge and fill activities.‖

Environmental Quality The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality generally has jurisdiction over

matters "affecting the regulation of the environment within the state, including but not

limited to the regulation of air quality, noise pollution control, water pollution control, the

regulation of solid waste disposal, the protection and preservation of the scenic rivers and

streams of the state, the regulation and control of radiation, the management of hazardous

waste, and the regulation of those programs which encourage, assist, and result in the

reduction of wastes generated within Louisiana." To ensure compliance with state

environmental laws and regulations and to protect the environment and the public health,

LDEQ may conduct inspections of all facilities subject to state environmental quality

laws and regulations. Furthermore, all permits, licenses, registrations, variances, and

compliance schedules required by the Louisiana Environmental Quality Act are issued by

LDEQ. It is also the purview of LDEQ to establish enforcement procedures and policies

to ensure compliance and address violations of state environmental quality regulations.

LDEQ administers the Louisiana Water Control Law and the Louisiana Pollutant

Discharge Elimination System (LPDES). The LPDES incorporates portions of the

Louisiana Environmental Quality Act and the Louisiana Water Control Law and all

regulations promulgated under their authority which are deemed equivalent to the

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) under the Clean Water Act

(CWA), and for which Louisiana has delegated authority. LDEQ‘s authority under the

LPDES includes issuance of all permits provided for under Sections 402 and 405 of the

CWA as well as the general permits program, the storm water discharge program, the

pretreatment program, the sewage sludge program, and the Louisiana Water Discharge

Permit System (LWDPS) process for discharging or allowing the discharge of any

pollutants into the waters of the state. Generally, LDEQ‘s jurisdiction covers any activity

that results in the discharge of any substance into the waters of the state with or without

the required permit, variance, or license. LDEQ is also responsible for establishing,

maintaining, and enforcing surface water quality standards for waters of the state. This is

accomplished through wasteload allocation and permit processes for the development of

effluent limitations for point source discharges and to form the basis for implementation

of best management practices to control nonpoint sources of water pollution. LDEQ is

responsible for regulating facilities and discharges within the scope of the NPDES for

point source pollution into the waters of the state.

LWDPS permits from LDEQ are also required for discharges into aquaculture projects

and for silviculture point sources. LDEQ also has the authority to investigate violations of

permitted discharges and to commence enforcement proceedings for such violations.

LDEQ sets effluent standards to control wastewater discharges into the waters of the

state, including but not limited to exploration for and production of oil and natural gas,

secondary treatment for sanitary sewage, and chlorine-bleaching pulp and paper mill

dischargers.

LDEQ administers the Louisiana Solid Waste Management and Resource Recovery Law.

One of the duties of LDEQ with regard to this law is to control and regulate pollution of

the environment caused by solid waste disposal practices. To this end, LDEQ adopts and

promulgates "rules, regulations, and standards for the transportation, processing, resource

recovery, and disposal of solid wastes consistent with the general solid waste

management plan adopted by the department. Such rules and regulations shall include but

not be limited to the disposal site location, construction, operation, compliance deadlines,

citing of stations for the off-loading and transloading of treated solid waste and sewage

sludge destined for disposal, and maintenance of the disposal process ..."

LDEQ administers the Solid Waste Recycling and Reduction Law. The powers and

duties of LDEQ in administering the law include, but are not limited to:

providing technical assistance to parishes, municipalities, and other persons, and

coordinating with appropriate federal agencies and private organizations;

adopting rules and regulations to encourage reduction, recycling, and resource

recovery of solid waste as a source of raw materials to be utilized in the

production of goods in the state;

assisting and encouraging, to the maximum extent possible, development of

industries and commercial enterprises which are based upon resource recovery,

recycling, and reuse of solid waste within the state; and

serving as an information source of recycling businesses operating in the state and

assisting in matching recovered materials with markets.

Information that is compiled is made available to local governments to assist with their

solid waste management activities. There are several areas related to environmental

quality over which LDEQ has jurisdiction that, although they are not directly related to

invasive species, nevertheless may exemplify how Louisiana might choose to structure

rapid response to aquatic invasive species. Refer to Appendix C.3 for detailed

information regarding LDEQ's jurisdiction over the administration of Louisiana's Air

Quality Program, emergency response to the release of pollutants, Hazardous Waste

Control Law, Louisiana Inactive and Abandoned Hazardous Waste Site Law, and

Louisiana Waste Reduction Law. Appendix C.3 also discusses the Hazardous Materials

Information, Development, Preparedness, and Response Act that is administered by the

Department of Public Safety and the Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act that is

administered by the Office of the Oil Spill Coordinator within the Governor's Office.

Fish and Seafood

Most issues related to fish and commercial and recreational fishing fall under the

jurisdiction of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Other jurisdiction

belongs to the Department of Agriculture and Forestry. LDWF‘s jurisdiction includes

species of freshwater and saltwater fish. The agency has the authority to regulate or

prohibit by rule the possession, sale, or transportation of any fish into Louisiana. LDWF

has jurisdiction over certain exotic fish species that may not be possessed, sold, or

transported without permission from the agency, such as carnero catfish, common carp,

goldfish, and all species of tilapia. LDWF also has jurisdiction over piranha, Rio Grande

tetra, and listed prohibited shark species (e.g., basking shark, white shark, and sand tiger

shark). In addition, LDWF has jurisdiction over the transfer of sharks between vessels in

state or federal waters. LDWF has jurisdiction over freshwater game fish, saltwater game

fish, and game fish fingerlings, and the agency also has jurisdiction over the methods of

taking freshwater and saltwater fish. Additionally, the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission

sets daily take, possession, and size limits for freshwater game fish and saltwater finfish

caught recreationally in Louisiana territorial waters. LDWF is also responsible for

commercial taking of saltwater finfish species, including but not limited to black drum,

sheepshead and flounder. The agency sets size and possession limits for commercial fish.

Other commercial fish species of which LDWF regulates the harvest include but are not

limited to paddlefish, sturgeon, king and Spanish mackerel, cobia, red snapper, greater

amberjack, jewfish, Nassau grouper, tuna, and red drum. LDWF also regulates the

Experimental Fisheries Program.

LDWF also has jurisdiction over the mariculture industry. LDWF maintains jurisdiction

over shipment of any saltwater game fish. The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission may

issue permits to Louisiana residents for raising all types of bass, crappie, and bream in the

state. Furthermore, LDWF has jurisdiction over the import, transport, and possession of

live triploid grass carp, as well as over triploid grass carp fingerlings under six inches in

total length. The agency has jurisdiction over enforcement of the prohibition against

releasing live triploid grass carp into Louisiana waters without written approval from

LDWF.

Specifically regarding tilapia, LDWF has authority over the issuance of permits for the

import, export, transport, and possession to the transfer and sale of live tilapia. LDWF

also has jurisdiction over all escape incidents and may implement or require the

implementation of whatever measures deemed necessary to contain, recapture, or kill the

escaped tilapia. Furthermore, LDWF has jurisdiction over the rules for tilapia culture,

live holding facilities, and live holding systems.

LDAF has jurisdiction over catfish that are shipped into Louisiana. Catfish that will be

used for restocking purposes may be shipped into Louisiana by a person, firm, or

corporation that possesses all the necessary wholesale licenses and a certification of

inspection issued by the state or country of origin. The certification of inspection must

state that the catfish are free from contagious or infectious diseases based upon actual

inspection of the catfish within 48 hours prior to the date of shipment. LDWF also has

jurisdiction over labeling of catfish packaging, whether the catfish are farm-raised or

naturally produced, and the origin of the fish. LDHH requires all packers or proprietors of

packaged, processed products register each separate and distinct product annually and to

supply LDHH with a sample of each product upon request.

LDWF has jurisdiction over the raising and taking of oysters, fish, and seafood for sale

through its certified aquaculture program or issuance of mariculture permits. LDWF also

regulates the oyster industry via licensing for oyster harvesting, transporting of oysters

from the waters of Louisiana, and leasing of bedding grounds.

Jurisdiction over the shrimp fishery and shrimp industry exclusively belongs to LDWF,

from the taking and possession of shrimp to the transportation thereof. LDWF also

regulates the saltwater shrimp seasons and the taking and method of taking bait shrimp.

LDWF regulates the taking of and method of taking crabs, the release of crabs in the

berry stage, and promulgation and enforcement of crab trap rules. LDWF also regulates

the harvest and sale of crabs produced in private, artificial, earthen reservoirs and the

transport of crabs from commercial fish farm producers on the public roads and highways

of Louisiana, including any and all equipment (except electric fish shocking devices),

necessary for the harvest of domesticated fish produced in privately owned waters. Also,

LDWF regulates the methods, permits, and fees regarding the harvesting of freshwater

mussels. LDWF regulates eel taken for commercial purposes and for recreational

purposes using any legal recreational gear, the taking of eel using eel pots, and authorizes

the sale of eel if the holder possesses a valid commercial fishing license in addition to any

other applicable commercial licenses. LDWF regulates mullet taken commercially from

saltwater areas of the state. LDWF also provides for zones, permits, fees, and other

provisions necessary for regulating the commercial taking of mullet, as well as enforcing

limitations on the saltwater areas from where mullet may be taken. LDWF also regulates

the commercial taking of mullet from freshwater areas of the state. Specifically, LDWF

provides rules for zones, permits, fees, daily take and possession limits, and other

necessary provisions to the commercial taking of mullet.

LDHH and LDAF share jurisdiction over the inspection of seafood. Inspection of seafood

is pursuant to Louisiana's Public Health-Sanitary Code and LDAF's Seafood Inspection

Program. Inspection includes a recommendation for testing the environment, including

the water source, to the appropriate agency only when evidence of contamination,

adulteration, or spoilage that may harm the health of humans or animals is indicated.

LDHH has jurisdiction over molluscan shellfish sanitation. LDHH classifies all state

waters that have the potential to produce molluscan shellfish. Molluscan shellfish may be

harvested only from growing areas that are approved by the State Health Officer. LDHH

is authorized to immediately close and prohibit the harvest of any molluscan shellfish

growing in an area adversely affected by health dangers, and is required to immediately

reopen molluscan shellfish growing areas when the department has determined that the

health dangers are no longer a threat to public health. Harvesting molluscan shellfish

from areas closed or not approved by the State Health Officer constitutes a violation of

La. R.S. 56:424(E). In order for LDHH to monitor molluscan shellfish-related diseases

for verification and certification, the agency may collect from all water bottoms, both

public and private, shellfish samples for bacteriological, chemical, and radiological

analysis. LDHH is required to collect oyster samples in Calcasieu Lake for the purpose of

determining chemical, radiological, and metallic analysis 45 days prior to the opening of

the oyster season as fixed by the commission in accordance with La. R.S. 56:435.1 or La.

R.S. 56:435.2.

Food-borne and Vector-borne Diseases The Louisiana Department of Health and

Hospitals has jurisdiction over food-borne and vector-borne diseases. LDHH protects the

public from food-borne diseases by requiring that all food products are produced from a

safe and sanitary source, including but not limited to marine and freshwater seafood and

animal products. All food products must be prepared, processed, packaged, handled,

stored, and transported in a sanitary manner that will prevent contamination, spoilage, or

adulteration. LDHH also supervises, inspects, and issues sanitation permits for water

supplies, slaughterhouses, cold storage plants, all places of public accommodation, and

the handling and control of hygienic conditions with respect to all food products. LDHH

also has jurisdiction over sanitary inspection of meat, milk, and other products.

Furthermore, LDHH monitors and controls disease vectors at levels sufficient to prevent

or abate outbreaks of diseases.

Imported Wild Birds and Animals The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has jurisdiction over the catch,

snare, and pursuit of any wild animal or bird imported into Louisiana by the federal

government or by any person under the supervision and consent of the Wildlife and

Fisheries Commission for the purpose of experimentation or propagation. LDWF also has

jurisdiction over the take of any wild bird or wild quadruped imported into Louisiana by

the state or federal government for the purpose of experimentation or propagation. LDAF

regulates the licensing process regarding the raising, selling, or raising and selling of

imported white tail deer, farm-raised white tail deer and exotic deer, antelope, and elk for

commercial purposes on breeding farms or propagating preserves that are owned or

leased by the licensee.

Livestock The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry has general jurisdiction over

livestock, including the unlawful transportation of diseased animals or livestock, or

adulterated meat. In this context, "livestock" means "any animal bred, kept, maintained,

raised, or used for show, profit, or for the purpose of selling or otherwise producing

crops, animals, or plant or animal products for market."

LDAF also regulates the licensing of pet turtle farmers and the monitoring and inspection

of pet turtles. LDAF regulates the quarantine of pet turtles or pet turtle eggs when

laboratory analysis indicates the presence of bacteria harmful to humans or other pet

turtles, such as Salmonella. LDAF also regulates removal from the premises of licensed

pet turtle farmers and disposal of pet turtles and turtle eggs that have been infected with

bacteria harmful to humans or other pet turtles. LDAF‘s Livestock Sanitary Board deals

with all contagious and infectious diseases of animals.

Microorganisms in Food The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals has the power to investigate whether

or not the distribution of any class of food may be a threat to health by reason of

contamination with microorganisms during the manufacture, processing, or packing

thereof. If such a threat cannot be adequately determined after the articles have entered

state commerce, LDHH may, under these conditions only, govern the conditions of

manufacture, processing, or packing for a temporary period of time to protect the public

health.

Natural and Scenic Rivers System The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries administers Louisiana's Natural and

Scenic Rivers System in order to preserve, protect, develop, reclaim, and enhance the

wilderness qualities, scenic beauty, and ecological regime of certain free-flowing streams

or segments thereof.

Noxious Aquatic Plants The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has jurisdiction over listed noxious

aquatic plants. La. R.S. 56:328(B) prohibits anyone at any time from knowingly

importing or causing the import of listed aquatic plant species or causing them to be

transported into Louisiana from any other state or country without first obtaining a

written permit from the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. However, the Wildlife and

Fisheries Commission may issue permits for the importation of listed noxious aquatic

plants for the purpose of scientific investigation. There is a gap in this statute that should

be noted. Although La. R.S. 56:328 prohibits the importation of listed species, nothing in

the law prohibits their sale once they are in Louisiana.

Noxious Weeds The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry regulates terrestrial plants that the

agency designates as "noxious weeds," particularly as the agency's jurisdiction relates to

the enforcement of Louisiana's Seed Law, and places limitations on the seeds of

designated noxious weeds.

Nurseries The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry has jurisdiction over the annual

certification and permitting system of nursery stock and their quarantine. LDAF requires

that purchasers in Louisiana of out-of-state nursery stock provide proof of origin of citrus

trees in their possession.

Pesticides If the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry finds that a foreign pest or a pest

not previously known to be established in Louisiana threatens to become established in

the state, then LDAF may apply to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a

quarantine or public health exemption to allow the application of a pesticide. A crisis

exemption may be issued in accordance with federal regulations for the use of an

unregistered pesticide if an unpredictable outbreak of pests in Louisiana is occurring and

there is no readily available pesticide registered for the particular use in order to eradicate

or control the pest.

Pink Bollworm Cotton plants, plant products, parts of cotton plants and plant products, and host materials

for the pink bollworm are subject to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and

Forestry's quarantine regulations. LDAF requires a permit to move untreated and/or un-

manufactured articles within a regulated area, with exemptions. Certification from LDAF

is also required to move regulated articles from a regulated area to a pest-free area.

Plant Pests and Diseases and Crop and Fruit Diseases The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry generally has jurisdiction over

plant pests and diseases. LDAF also has jurisdiction over all crop and fruit diseases and

contagious and infectious crop and fruit diseases. LDAF maintains a list of materials

declared to be hosts for plant pests and diseases. Among LDAF‘s responsibilities

regarding plant pests and diseases are:

inspecting any premises and/or property if there is reason to believe that a plant

pest or diseases subject to regulation may be present in an area of the state;

establishing inspecting stations or utilizing existing inspection stations and

inspecting any vehicle known or suspecting to be transporting any materials

known to be hosts for plant pests and diseases if LDAF has reason to believe or

suspect that any plant pest or disease has been or may be transported into

Louisiana or transported between two or more locations in Louisiana;

quarantining properties or premises when inspection of these properties or

premises indicates the presence of any plant pest or disease; and

regulating a system of reciprocal quarantines or embargoes between Louisiana

and other states, territories, and foreign countries.

Public and Private Markets

Municipal corporations may regulate the location, inspection, and operation of all public

markets. This power is subject to the superior right of inspection of the Louisiana

Department of Health and Hospitals. LDHH regulates the inspection and operation of all

private markets outside of the market zones. The agency provides regulations for the

operation of these private markets, including rules affecting their cleanliness and the

wholesomeness of the goods offered for sale therein.

Ratites The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry has jurisdiction over ratites

shipped into Louisiana. In particular, LDAF has the power to inspect ratites shipped into

Louisiana. The state veterinarian has the power to deal with all contagious and infectious

diseases of ratites and all other pests of ratites, and he or she may do and perform acts

necessary to control, eradicate, or prevent their introduction, spread, or dissemination.

Seeds The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry has jurisdiction over prohibited

and restricted noxious weed seeds. LDAF‘s Seed Commission makes rules and

regulations governing the methods of sampling, inspecting, and making analysis tests and

examinations of all seeds and other propagating stock. The Seed Commission also makes

rules and regulations for governing the conditions for growing, harvesting, processing,

preparing for market, labeling, distributing, and marketing seeds. The Seed Commission

is responsible for making rules and regulations for testing agricultural, vegetable, or

flower seeds for sale, offered for sale, for transport, or for distribution. The Seed

Commission also has jurisdiction over the labeling of agricultural, vegetable, and flower

seeds. Furthermore, the Seed Commission has jurisdiction over the sale, offer for sale,

transport, or distribution of agricultural seeds containing noxious weed seeds.

Sweet Potato Weevil and Boll Weevil Sweet potato weevil and boll weevil relate to the aquatic invasive species discussion

because many insects can enter the state by an aquatic pathway. Discussion of the

measures of control Louisiana employs over these particular insects may be a useful in

future discussion over the measures of control Louisiana may use against other insects

that may enter the state through an aquatic pathway. The Department of Agriculture and

Forestry has jurisdiction over the sweet potato weevil. LDAF also has jurisdiction over

the boll weevil via the Boll Weevil Eradication Commission. Not only can LDAF inspect

possible boll weevil infestations and carry out suppression or eradication activities,

LDAF also is authorized to cooperate with any agency of the federal government, any

state, any other agency in Louisiana or the region, or with any person engaged in the

growing, processing, marketing, and handling of cotton so the agency can control and

suppress the boll weevil. LDAF also has the authority to "stop any person and inspect any

'regulated article' or conveyance moving into, within, or from Louisiana when LDAF has

reason to believe the regulated article or means of conveyance is infested with boll

weevil.‖ Furthermore, LDAF has the authority to issue a stop order on, seize, or treat any

regulated article infested with boll weevil moving in violation of laws or regulations and

to destroy or otherwise dispose of any infested cotton when it is necessary. LDAF may

also issue certificates for articles that originated in noninfested premises in an eradication

zone and otherwise have not been exposed to infestation. Furthermore, LDAF may issue

permits for movement of noncertified regulated articles, which allows the movement of

articles into, within, or from Louisiana when the agency has determined that such

movement will not result in the spread of boll weevil. LDAF has the authority to issue

quarantine orders to affected parties when necessary. Orders shall be issued to prevent the

movement, disturbance, or noncontainment of an actual or suspected boll weevil

infestation or the prevention thereof.

Wildlife Refuges, Wildlife Management Areas, and Public Hunting Grounds The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has jurisdiction over wild animals

and birds on wildlife refuges, wildlife management areas, and public hunting grounds.

Wildlife The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has jurisdiction over wild birds, wild

quadrupeds, and fish and other aquatic life. LDWF also has jurisdiction over the beds and

bottoms of rivers, streams, bayous, lagoons, lakes, bays, sounds, and inlets bordering on

or connecting with the Gulf of Mexico within the territory or jurisdiction of the state.

This jurisdiction includes all oysters and other shellfish and their parts grown thereon,

either naturally or cultivated, and all oysters in the shells after they are caught or taken.

LDWF also has jurisdiction over the killing, taking, trapping, and transportation of

animals killed and administers licenses and permits for the possession and taking of

wildlife. LDWF also administers the Deer Management Assistance Program and the

Coastwide Nutria Control Program.

FLORIDA FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Article IV, The Constitution Of The State Of Florida : establishes agency and its regulatory

and executive powers with respect to wild animal life, fresh water aquatic life, and marine life.

FLORIDA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE

68A-1.002 Regulation of Wild Animal Life and Freshwater Aquatic Life in the State.

All freshwater aquatic life in public and private waters and lands is subject to the

regulation of the Commission.

68A-4.005 Introduction of Foreign Wildlife or Freshwater Fish or Carriers of

Disease.

Requires permit to possess, transport or otherwise bring into the state or to release or

introduce in the state any wildlife or freshwater fish that is not native to the state.

68A-6.0011 Possession of Wildlife in Captivity; Permit Requirements.

Permit required to possess any native or non-native wildlife in captivity.

68A-6.002 Categories of Captive Wildlife. Delineates three classes of wildlife based on risk to human health and safety.

68A-6.006 Dealing in Exotic or Pet Birds: Records.

License required for those in the business of breeding or the purchase or sale of exotic

birds.

68A-23.008 Introduction of Non-Native Aquatic Species in the Waters of the State;

Provisions for Sale and Inspection of Fish for Bait or Propagation Purpose;

Diseased Fish.

Permit required to import, introduce, or possess with a reasonable chance of liberation

into the waters of the state, any aquatic species not native to the state.

(Note: this rule, currently in the freshwater fish chapter, is undergoing revision to be

broader in scope and include more than freshwater aquatic species)

FLORIDA STATUTES

(Because the Commission is a constitutionally empowered agencies, regulatory authority

is principally covered by rule (Florida Administrative Code). Statutes are generally

considered to be ―in aid of the Commission,‖ rather than as the primary controlling

authority.)

372.26 Imported fish.

Requires permit to import any species of freshwater fish, native or otherwise.

372.265 Regulation of foreign animals.

Requires permit to import for sale or use, or to release any species of the animal kingdom

not indigenous to Florida.

370.81 Illegal importation or possession of nonindigenous marine plants and

animals; rules and regulations.

Unlawful to import or possess any nonindigenous marine plant animal that may endanger

or infect the marine resources of the state or pose a human health hazard, with exceptions

noted.

Prohibits importation of stonefishes and weeverfishes, and provides for strict

requirements for importation of sea snakes.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES

FLORIDA STATUTES

253.034 – State-owned lands – provides for control of nonnative plants as an element of

land use plan

487.051 - Rule making authority for declaring an animal or plant a pest.

570.07 – Department’s powers and duties.

570.32 – Division of Plant Industry’s duties.

570.36 – Division of Animal Industry’s duties.

570.61 – Division of Aquaculture’s duties.

578.011 – Definitions for seed law - includes prohibited and restricted noxious weed

seed, bulblets, and tubers.

581.011 – Definitions relative to plants.

581.031 – Department’s duties relative to plants. Authority to declare a plant pest,

noxious weed, or arthropod a nuisance; to declare a quarantine against because of plant

pests or noxious weeds that pose a potential threat to the agricultural, horticultural, or

public interest of this state, and to prohibit their movement into or within this state.

581.083 – Introduction of plant pests. Permit required to introduce any plant pest,

noxious weed

581.091 – Noxious weeds – prohibits release of noxious weeds and plants infected with

pests

581.101 – Plant Quarantines. - unlawful to introduce, move or dispose of any plant,

plant product, or other thing included in the quarantine.

581.145 – Aquatic plant nursery registration - unlawful for any nursery or nursery

stock dealer to import, transport, cultivate, collect, sell, or possess any noxious aquatic

plant listed on the prohibited aquatic plant list.

581.181 – Destruction of infected plants - person in possession of infected plants shall

remove and destroy infected plant or plant product; otherwise FDACS will treat or

destroy at the expense of the owner.

585.01 – Definitions for diseases in animals.

585.08 – Duties of the department relative to animals – authority to condemn and

destroy livestock animals carrying or exposed to infectious or communicable disease, and

any place liable to convey infection or contagion.

585.09 – Condemnation of animal - procedures

585.145 – Control of animal diseases – requires permit to import livestock animals

593.20 – Emergency aerial application of pesticides.

597.003 – Duties of department relative to aquaculture.

597.004 – Certification and rule making authority over aquaculture – requires

certification and implementation of Best Management Practices (referenced in Florida

Administrative Code) for aquaculturists.

597.0041 – Prohibited acts relative to aquaculture – provides penalties for violation of

statute and associated rules in Florida Administrative Code.


5B-3 – Plant Quarantine - All commercial shipments of nursery stock or other plants

and plant products entering peninsular Florida by road are required to stop at an

agricultural inspection station

5B-43 – Phytophagous snails – prohibition of certain snails injurious to agriculture

5B-57 – Introduction or release of plant pests – requires permit for introduction,

possession or movement of arthropods, biological control agents, plant pests, noxious

weeds, and certain invasive plants

5B-59 – Plant pest control - standards for pesticide application in urban areas

5C-23 – Transporting animal carcasses – requires permit to transport livestock animals

that died other than by slaughter

5L-3 – Aquaculture certification and BMPs – including penalties for violations, which

requires permits from other Florida state agencies with authority to deal with restricted or

prohibited species.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

FLORIDA STATUTES

369.20 Florida Aquatic Weed Control Act.

Delegates authority for control, eradication, and regulation of noxious aquatic weeds,

including research and planning, excluding the use of fish as a biological control agent.

Authorizes entry upon private property for purposes of making surveys and examinations

and to engage in aquatic plant control activities.

369.25 Aquatic plants; definitions; permits; powers of department; penalties.

Defines aquatic plants and noxious aquatic plants.

Requires permit (from FDEP or FDACS) to import, transport, nonnursery cultivate,

collect, sell, or possess any noxious aquatic plant listed on the prohibited aquatic plant

list; requires that activity poses no threat to the waters, wildlife, natural resources, or

environment of the state.

Provides authority to enter and inspect any facility or place, (except aquatic plant

nurseries regulated FDACS), or any vehicle of conveyance, to ascertain compliance with

statute and FDEP rule; empowers FDEP to seize and destroy, without compensation, any

aquatic plants imported, transported, cultivated, collected, or otherwise possessed in

violation of this section or department rules.

Authorizes FDEP to evaluate aquatic plant species to determine whether such species

poses a threat or danger to the waters, wildlife, natural resources, or environment of the

state.

369.251 Invasive nonnative plants; prohibitions; study; removal; rules.

Specific permit requirements for Melaleuca quinquenervia, Schinus terebinthifolius,

Casuarina equisetifolia, Casuarina glauca, and Mimosa pigra.


CHAPTER 62C-20

62C-20.0015 Definitions.

Defines aquatic plants, control programs, and waters of the State.

62C-20.002 Permits – Applications

Implementing rule for aquatic plant control programs.

62C-20.0055 Management Method Criteria and Standards, Operations and

Reporting Requirements. Rules stipulating acceptable aquatic plant control methods: chemical, mechanical,

biological.

62C-52.001 Purpose.

Authorizes the Bureau of Invasive Plant Management to administer a management

program for the eradication, control, or prevention of the introduction and dissemination

of noxious or prohibited aquatic plants.

62C-52.003 Permit Requirements.

Permit required from FDEP or FDACS to possess any Class I or Class II prohibited

aquatic plant.

62C-52.004 Criteria for Permit Issuance.

No permits issued that may result in the introduction or spread of any noxious or

prohibited aquatic plant species, or any non-native aquatic plant into natural waters or

any waters connected to natural waters.

62C-52.008 Enforcement and Penalties.

Authorizes quarantine of plants from a permitted wild collection site; seizure of

prohibited aquatic plant which the department has determined is reasonably likely to be

introduced into waters; destruction of prohibited aquatic plants which threaten waters of

the state without compensation to the owner.

TEXAS

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Under Title 31, Part 2, Chapter 57 of the Texas Administrative Code the Texas Parks and

Wildlife Department has authority to regulate the following categories that could have

ANS implications:

1. HARMFUL OR POTENTIALLY HARMFUL EXOTIC FISH, SHELLFISH

AND AQUATIC PLANTS (Subchapter A)

2. MUSSELS AND CLAMS (Subchapter B)

3. INTRODUCTION OF FISH, SHELLFISH AND AQUATIC PLANTS

(Subchapter C)

4. COMMERCIALLY PROTECTED FINFISH (Subchapter D)

5. PERMITS TO SELL NONGAME FISH TAKEN FROM PUBLIC FRESH

WATER (Subchapter E)

6. COLLECTION OF BROODFISH FROM TEXAS WATERS (Subchapter F)

7. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS (Subchapter H)

8. AQUATIC VEGETATION MANAGEMENT (Subchapter L)

Additionally, under Chapter 58 the department has specific authority to regulate:

1. OYSTER FISHERIES (Subchapter A)

2. SHRIMP FISHERIES (Subchapter B)

3. CRAB FISHERIES (Subchapter C)

4. FINFISH FISHERIES (Subchapter D)

Texas Department of Agriculture

Relative to ANS under Title 4, Part 1, of the Texas Administrative Code the Texas

Department of Agriculture (Chapter 19) has legislative authority to develop a Noxious

Plant List of plants that have serious potential to cause economic or ecological harm to

the state. Unless permitted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department or by the Texas

Department of Agriculture, a person commits an offense if the person sells, distributes or

imports into the state the plants listed in any live form. The term "distributes" does not

include the accidental or unintentional movement of noxious plant material in the course

of legitimate construction activities or agricultural activities, including but not limited to,

re-seeding, transportation of agricultural products and the movement of farm or earth

moving equipment.

Additionally, the Department has the authority to regulate pesticide use (Chapter 7),

aquaculture (Chapter 16), and quarantines (Chapter 19).

Regional Linkages

Regional rapid response processes should be implemented using a Memorandum of

Understanding among all agencies and organizations identified in this report as having

responsibility for some aspect of early detection or rapid response. This could be

accomplished as a part of an broader Memorandum of Understanding that would also

cover other important aspects of addressing non-native/invasive aquatic species.

In the event of a report of a non-native/invasive aquatic species, the relevant state agency

representative would first determine if it is a detection of a new non-native/invasive

species or a change in the distribution of an already existing non-native/invasive species.

This first decision would determine if a response is warranted. The relevant state agency

representative would then need to determine if the situation is likely to have interstate

implications. If there are interstate implications, the relevant state agency representative

will immediately contact representatives from the appropriate state agencies and inform

them of the situation. That is called ―first tier‖ contact and is comprised of the

individuals listed below.

FIRST TIER CONTACTS

Mississippi

Dale Diaz – Mississippi Department of Marine Resources

Dennis Riecke – Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks

Florida

Scott Hardin – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Don Schmitz – Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Alabama

Leslie Hartman – Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources/Marine

Resources Division

Steve Rider – Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources/Freshwater

Division

Texas

Earl Chilton – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Louisiana

Mark McElroy – Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Harry Blanchet – Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

It is expected that lead agency decision-making will fall to the lead state agency

representative in which the original report is filed. For example, if an non-

native/invasive fish is reported from a pond in the interior of the state of Louisiana, the

representative from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would likely

make a decision that the situation does not have interstate implications. The Louisiana

Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would then take the lead in implementing a rapid

response action for Louisiana. If the above scenario included a non-native/invasive fish

species in the Pearl River, the representative of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and

Fisheries would likely conclude that the situation does have interstate implications and

would then contact the appropriate first tier contacts for Mississippi, which would include

the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources and the Mississippi Department of

Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. In this scenario, Louisiana would maintain lead status in

decision-making and implementation with the full cooperation of the Mississippi

agencies. In a case where first tier contacts are made, it is incumbent upon the first tier

individuals to contact a second tier of individuals, which could include federal agency

representatives, other state agency representatives, landowners, conservation

organizations, or other appropriate entities, being careful to include only those entities

that have a specific role to play in the rapid response process.

Continuing with the above scenario of an interstate situation, the joint group would be

required to determine the scope of assets that could be applied to the situation, such as

boats, trucks, chemicals, nets, etc., and determine the location of those assets that could

be pressed into service in the most timely manner. In addition, the issue of availability of

funds would have to be discussed among the joint group members. Each representative

would be responsible for determining if funding is available and if/how that funding

could be applied to the situation. Decisions on other required processes, such as rapid

assessments, availability of supporting documents, and deployment of assets will also be

made jointly among the interstate group.

APPENDIX 2

RAPID RESPONSE TO

SHELLFISH-RELATED PATHOGENS

Rapid Response to Shellfish-Related Pathogens

Shellfish are filter feeders and therefore have the ability to concentrate microorganisms,

including human pathogens and toxigenic micro-algae, from the water column if these

organisms are present in the growing area. Concentrations in the shellfish may be as

much as 100 times that found in the water column. If the microorganisms concentrated

are harmful to humans, and if, in the case of human pathogens, the shellfish are

consumed raw or partially cooked, human disease can result.

Past indications and evidence have shown that non-native pathogenic strains of bacteria

can enter USA waters through discharge of ship ballast water and other overboard

discharges from ships that have arrived from international ports. These non-native strains

have been of the pandemic variety, capable of causing widespread illness outbreaks

associated with our native species of seafood if these products are consumed raw or

otherwise cross-contaminated.

Outbreaks of Shellfish-Related Illness

When illness has occurred, immediate closure of the implicated growing area and/or

recall of implicated product will significantly reduce the chance of additional illnesses.

Additional information concerning investigation of an outbreak of shellfish related illness

believed to be associated with a naturally occurring pathogen can be found in the

National Shellfish Sanitation Program Model Ordinance Guidance Documents: Guidance

for a Time-Temperature Evaluation of a Shellfish Implicated Outbreak (ISSC/FDA,

2002). Additional information concerning the disease causing potential of shellfish can

be found in the NSSP Model Ordinance Guidance Documents: Sanitary Survey and the

Classification of Growing Waters, Guidance for Developing Marine Biotoxin

Contingency Plans, and Shellstock Relay (Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference

(ISSC)/U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 2002).

Documentation of the information supporting growing area classification, proper tagging

and record keeping, expeditious follow-up on reported illnesses, effective recall of

implicated product and public warning announcements are all requisite to protecting

public health. Shellfish growing areas implicated through epidemiological association

between illness and shellfish consumption must be closed immediately to prevent

additional implicated product from reaching the consumer. Broad closures of Growing

Areas, in addition to reducing the chance of additional illnesses, will improve

identification of specific sites where harvesting is taking place, reduce the size of areas

available to harvest, reduce the practice of mixing together shellstock from different

growing areas, and reduce illegal harvesting through self policing by legitimate

harvesters to prevent false tagging. In addition, shellfish product from the implicated

growing areas should be detained and an effective recall of product initiated.

When the source of the illness is found to be the distribution and processing system,

shellfish product should be also detained and an effective recall of product initiated, and

the problem immediately corrected.

Presence of Human Pathogens in Shellfish Meats

Human pathogens have been found in shellfish in the absence of human illness. These

pathogens can be present at levels below that of an infectious dose, and may originate

either as naturally occurring organisms in the growing area or from contamination of the

growing area or of the shellfish during its handling, storage, transport or processing.

Continued finding of the presence of human pathogens in shellfish from a specific

growing area with no evidence of illness in the consumers may or may not constitute a

human health risk. In these circumstances, the shellfish control authority needs to act

quickly to initiate a thorough investigation to determine if the pathogen source is either

the growing area or the system used for distributing and processing the product. If the

source can be determined, the authority needs to take immediate steps to correct the

problem through appropriate actions such as eliminating the source, reclassifying the

growing area, or changing a distribution or processing procedure.

When the source of the organism cannot be identified or if the organism is naturally

occurring, the authority should conduct a risk assessment using all available information

to determine if the human consumer is at risk. When the risk is determined to be

negligible, no further action is required. A determination that some risk exists may

prompt further action to protect the consumer such as allowing the shellfish to be

harvested with an advisory to immunologically compromised individuals, allowing

shellfish to be used only for cooked product, or closing the growing area.

Presence of Toxic Substances in Shellfish Meats

Because shellfish are filter feeders, they can also readily accumulate toxigenic non-

indigenous micro-algae. Information concerning this topic can be found in the NSSP

Model Ordinance Guidance Documents: Guidance for Developing Marine Biotoxin

Contingency Plans (ISSC/FDA, 2002).

APPENDIX 3

ADDITIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION

State Contacts

Florida

South Florida Water Management District

Dan Thayer

[email protected]

(561) 682-6129

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Brian Nelson

[email protected]

(352) 796-7211

Suwannee River Water Management District

Bob Heeke

[email protected]

(386) 362-1001

Northwest Florida Water Management District

John Valenta

[email protected]

(850) 539-5999

St. Johns River Water Management District not involved with Gulf drainages.

Alabama

Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries of the Department of Conservation and Natural

Resources

Steve Rider

Non Game Fish Coordinator

64 N. Union Street, Suite 551

Montgomery, AL 36130

[email protected]

Marine Resources Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Leslie D. Hartman

Biologist II

2 N. Iberville Street

P.O. Box 189

Dauphin Island, AL 36528-0189

251 861-2882 work

251 861-8741 fax

[email protected]

Alabama Department of Environmental Management

Fred Leslie

Chief, Aquatic Assessment Unit

P.O. Box 301463

Montgomery, AL 36130-1463

334 260-2748 work

334 272-8131 fax

[email protected]

Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries

Dr. Tom Johnson

Plant Pest Administrator

1445 Federal Drive, Suite 207


334 240-7225 work

334 240-7168 fax

[email protected]

Department of Public Health

Dr. Lewis Byrd

Director

4171 Commanders Drive

Mobile, AL 36615

251 432-7618 work

[email protected]

Department of Transportation

Howard Peavey

State Agronomist

1409 Coliseum Boulevard


334 242-6282 work

334 242-6378 fax

[email protected]

Auburn University Marine Extension & Research Center

Dr. Rick Wallace

Director & Professor

4170 Commanders Drive

Mobile, AL 36615

251 438-5690 work

[email protected]

Alabama State Port Authority

Joseph Threadcraft

250 N. Water Street

Mobile, AL 36602

251 441-7220 work

251 441-7255 fax

[email protected]

Mississippi

Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality

Phil Bass, Director OPC

Office of Pollution Control

P.O. Box 10385

Jackson, MS 39289-0385

Ph. 601-961-5100

[email protected]

Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks

Dennis Riecke

Fisheries Biologist

1505 Eastover Drive

Jackson, MS 39211-6374

Ph. 601-432-2207

[email protected]

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources

Dale Diaz

Marine Fisheries Staff Officer

1141 Bayview Ave. Suite 101

Biloxi, MS 39530

Ph. 228-374-5000

[email protected]


Jim Lipe

Director of Environmental Affairs

121 North Jefferson Street

Jackson, MS 39201

Ph. 601-359-1135

[email protected]


Gene Robertson

Deputy Director Regulatory Services

P.O. Box 1609

Jackson, MS 39215

Ph. 601-359-1102

[email protected]

USM/Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

Harriet Perry

Director, Marine Fisheries Institute

East Beach Drive,

Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Ph. 228-872-4218

Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission

Ron Lukens

Assistant Director

P.O. Box 726

Ocean Springs, MS 39566-0726

Ph. 228- 875-5912

[email protected]

Mississippi State University, NWAC

Jimmy Avery

Extension Agriculture Leader

P.O. Box 197

Stoneville, MS 38776

Ph. 662-686-3273

[email protected]

Mississippi State University, NWAC

Craig Tucker

Director

P.O. Box 197

Stoneville, MS 38776

Ph. 662-686-3286

[email protected]

Mississippi State University, Geo Resources Institute

John D. Madsen

Assistant Professor

P.O. Box 9652

Miss. State, MS 39762-9652

Ph. 662-325-2428

[email protected]

MS Farm Bureau Federation

Brent Bailey

Environmental Programs

P.O. Box 1972

Jackson, MS 39215

Ph. 601-977-4248

[email protected]

National Sea Grant Law Center, MS/AL Sea Grant Legal Program

Stephanie Showalter

Director

Kinard Hall, Wing E-Room 256

University, MS 38677

Ph. 662-915-7775

[email protected]

FDA, Gulf of Mexico Program

Thomas Herrington

Assoc. Director

Stennis Space Center

MS 39529-6000

Ph. 228-688-7941

[email protected]

Louisiana

Center for Bioenvironmental Research, Tulane & Xavier University

Douglas Meffert

Deputy Director

1430 Tulane Ave., SL-3

New Orleans, LA 70112

Ph. 504-988-4618

[email protected]

Center for Bioenvironmental Research, Tulane & Xavier University

Alysia Kravitz

Invasive species Coordinator

202 Alcee Fortier Hall, Tulane University

New Orleans, LA 70118

Ph. 504-862-8441

[email protected]

Southeast Aquatic Resource Partnership / LA Sea Grant

Marilyn Barret O‘Leary

NIS Coordinator

111 Sea Grant Bldg. LSU.

Baton Rouge, LA 70803

Ph. 225-578-6349

[email protected]

Texas

Texas River Authorities and Water Districts

Angelina & Neches River Authority

Kenneth Reneau-General Manager

210 East Lufkin Ave.

Lufkin, Texas 75901

936/632-7795

[email protected]

Bandera County River Authority

And Ground Water District

David Jeffery

P.O. Box 771

Bandera, Texas 78003

830/796-7260

[email protected]

Brazos River Authority

Joe B. Hinton -General Manager

P.O. Box 7555

Waco, Texas 76714

254/776-1441

Warren Davis

254/761-3174

[email protected]

Canadian River River Authority

Kent Satterwhite-General Manager

P.O. Box 99

Sanford, Texas 79078

806/865-3325

Rod Goodwin-Water Quality

Central Colorado River Authority

Rob Chaney-General Manager

P.O. Box 964

Coleman, Texas 76834

325/625-2838

Colorado River Municipal Water District

John W. Grant-General Manager

P.O. Box 869

Big Spring, Texas 79721

432/267-6341

[email protected]

Mr. Okla Thornton, Jr.-Natural Resources Manager

[email protected]

Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority

William E. West, Jr.-General Manager

933 E. Court Street

Seguin, Texas 78156

830/379-5822

Debbie Magin-Director of Water Quality Services

[email protected]

Jefferson County Drainage District #6

Betty Holman

P.O. Box 20078

Beaumont, Texas 77720

409/842-1818

Lavaca-Navidad River Authority

Pat Brzozowski-General Manager

P.O. Box 429

Edna, Texas 77957

361/782-5229

Neal Janssen

[email protected]

Lower Colorado River Authority

Joseph J. Beal-General Manager

P.O. Box 220

Austin, Texas 78767

512/473-3200

John Wedig

512/473-3307

Lower Concho River Water and Soil

Ben Sims-Chair of Board

Rt. 1, Box 4

Paint Rock, Texas 76866

325/732-4371

(Okla Thornton of CRMWD does it for them)

Lower Neches Valley Authority

Robert Stroder-General Manager

P.O. Box 5117

Beaumont, Texas 77726-5117

409/892-4011

Robert Harris-Deputy General Manager

[email protected]

North Texas Municipal Water

Jim Parks-Executive Director

P.O. Box 2408

Wylie, Texas 75098

972/442-5405

Nueces River Authority

Con Mims (male)– Executive Director

P.O. Box 349

Uvalde, Texas 78802

830/278-6810

Rocky Freund-Director of the Coastal Bend Division in Corpus Christi

361/825-3193

Northeast Texas Municipal Water District

J.W. Dean - General Manager

P.O. Box 955

Hughes Springs, Texas 75656

903/639-7538

Palo Duro River Authority

James L. Derington-General Manager

P.O. Box 99

Spearman, Texas 79081

806/882-4401

[email protected]

Red Bluff Water Power Control

Randal Hartman-Managing Director

111 West 2nd

Street

Pecos, Texas 79772

432/445-2037

Red River Authority

Curtis Campbell

900 8th

Street, Suite 520

Wichita Falls, Texas 76301-6894

940/723-8697

Sabine River Authority

Jerry Clark-General Manager

P.O. Box 579

Orange, Texas 77630

409/746-2192

Jack Tatum-Water Resources Manager

409/746-2192

[email protected]

San Antonio River Authority

Greg Rothe

P.O. Box 830027

San Antonio, Texas 78283

210/227-1373

Mike Gonzales-Environmental Director

[email protected]

San Jacinto River Authority

James Adams-General Manager

P.O. Box 329

Conroe, Texas 77305

409/588-1111

Blake Kellum

936/588-7102

[email protected]

Palo Duro River Authority

James L. Derington-General Manager

P.O. Box 99

Spearman, Texas 79081

806/882-4401

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Red Bluff Water Power Control

Randal Hartman-Managing Director

111 West 2nd

Street

Pecos, Texas 79772

432/445-2037

Upper Guadalupe River Authority

Greg V. Etter-General Manager

125 Lehmann Drive

Kerrville, Texas 78028

830/896-5445

Scott Loveland-Hydrolic and environmental Resources Manager

[email protected]

Upper Neches River Municipal Water Authority

Tom Mallory-General Manager

P.O. Box 1965

Palestine, Texas 75802

903/876-2237

West Central Texas Municipal Water District

David Bell-General Manager

P.O. Box 2362

Abilene, Texas 79604

325/673-8255

[email protected]

White River Municipal Water District

Tommy O’Brian

HCR 2

Spur, Texas 79370

806/263-4240