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Options to combat invasive species

Published (2/17/2012)
By Bob Geiger
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State spending to combat aquatic invasive species in fiscal year 2013 is expected to increase 18.5 percent to $8.6 million.

Sponsored by Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings), HF2153 includes a 21-day waiting period before placing a boat lift, dock or swim raft from one body of water into another; doubling civil penalties for continued violations of invasive species laws; and establishing a certification program to train inspectors to prevent the spread of aquatic species by July 1, 2015.

The House Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Policy and Finance Committee heard the long-term options for fighting aquatic invasive species from the Department of Natural Resources. No action was taken on the bill.

A companion, SF1839, sponsored by Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria), awaits action by the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee.

DNR estimates to combat invasive species as zebra mussels and Eurasian milfoil range from $8 million to $11 million annually for boat self-inspection, to a $550 million to $600 million program for required boat inspections at all public and private accesses.

“These numbers are staggering,” said Rep. Paul Anderson (R-Starbuck). Costs would largely be recouped by per-boat surcharges ranging from $40 for the least expensive solutions to $2,300 for required inspections.

“With invasive species there are no silver bullets – you just don’t stop them in their tracks,” said Steve Hirsch, DNR director of ecological and water resources.

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