Walberg's Legislation to Combat Invasive Species Examined by Subcommittee

Today, the House Committee on Natural Resources' Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a legislative hearing and examined the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act, introduced by Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Sarah Elfreth (D-MD). The bipartisan legislation would modernize federal AIS authorities to better prevent, control, and eradicate aquatic invasive species.

Congressman Walberg, a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, had the opportunity to ask Dr. Marc Gaden, the Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, about how the legislation would bridge gaps in the federal government's current approach to preventing and managing aquatic invasive species.

"As Michiganders, we know the long-term health of our fisheries is critical to our fishing industry, economy, and way of life," said Rep. Walberg. "I was glad to see the subcommittee consider my legislation, the bipartisan AIS Control and Prevention Act, to streamline coordination and prioritize prevention and rapid response. The Great Lakes are a national treasure, and we must continue to be good stewards of their waters and wildlife."

Background

Aquatic invasive species, including zebra mussels, invasive Asian carp, and sea lamprey, impose billions of dollars in costs annually, damaging fisheries, aquatic habitat, hydropower, irrigation, drinking water, and other water infrastructure nationwide. They also pose a significant threat to the ecological and economic health of the Great Lakes region by outcompeting native fish populations, degrading water quality, and endangering the economies and communities that depend on a healthy ecosystem.

The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act would:

• Support state-led, coordinated invasive species management
• Protect fisheries, boating access, water infrastructure, and outdoor recreation economies
• Improve coordination across existing federal, state, and regional AIS programs
• Prioritize prevention and rapid response to reduce long-term, costly management

The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act is supported by a number of organizations representing recreational anglers, boaters, and the industries they support.