FINAL BILL REPORT

                 HJM 4008

                    As Passed Legislature

Brief Description:  Requesting support for the full federal appropriation to fund state aquatic nuisance species management plans.

Sponsors:  Representatives Regala, Sump, Linville, G. Chandler and Haigh.

House Committee on Natural Resources

Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation

Background:

The introduction of nonindigenous aquatic species into the waters of the United States causes environmental and economic problems because these species have few natural enemies in their new environment.  These aquatic nuisance species have the potential to cause large damage to the state because they are invasive and can destroy native plant and animal habitat.   These species can also clog waterways, reduce recreational opportunities, and negatively impact irrigation and power generation.  Aquatic nuisance species can be plant or animal, and include European green crabs, zebra mussels, Chinese mitten crabs, spartina, and hydrilla.   

Congress has authorized the expenditure of $4 million annually to fund the implementation of state management plans to minimize the environmental and economic damage caused by aquatic nuisance species.  After a state plan has been approved by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service may fund up to 75 percent of the cost to implement the plan.  In recent years, only $200,000 has been appropriated annually to fund implementation of these management plans.  The management plan for Washington identifies $1,700,000 in additional funding needed to address aquatic nuisance species problems.  

Summary of Bill:

The Congress is requested to appropriate the full $4 million annual appropriation authorized by the Congress to fund the implementation of state management plans to minimize damage by aquatic nuisance species in fiscal year 2000 and future years.

Votes on Final Passage:

House960

Senate460