Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit Program
This new program focuses on protecting Oregon’s waterways from invasive species. The Marine Board and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will implement the program. Funds generated from this program will fund five regional inspection teams, pay for education/outreach materials, voluntary boat inspections and decontamination of infested boats. The fees will also pay for training, decontamination equipment and the infrastructure needed to produce the permits.
WHY THIS LAW IS IMPORTANT TO OREGON’S WATERWAYS
Oregon’s new Aquatic Invasive Species Program became a priority for the 2009 Oregon Legislature as demand grew for an enhanced effort to prevent a devastating introduction of zebra or quagga mussels into Oregon’s waters. Several aquatic invasive species (AIS), such as Eurasian watermilfoil, New Zealand mud snails and others, are already present in Oregon, damaging waterways and costing waterway and fishery managers – and ultimately taxpayers, boaters and anglers – millions. This new program is not as complete a response as some would have liked, but it greatly increases current prevention programs.
