Public hearing on "Great Lakes invasive species rule" From WDNR

Public hearing on proposed rule to be held around state in January

MADISON – A proposal to slow the spread of invasive species into Wisconsin by restricting the sale, planting or release of the most troublesome invaders is the topic of public informational meetings statewide in January.

 

The proposal classifies invasive species of plants, animals and nonagricultural plant pests into four different categories, two of which would be regulated and two which would not. The two regulated categories – prohibited and restricted – would make it illegal to import and export these species, buy, plant or release them, according to Ron Martin, who leads the Department of Natural Resources invasive species team that is developing the proposal.

 

"There are a number of species that are close to our doorstep, including kudzu and Asian carp species, and a number of others that are just starting to get established in the state," Martin says. "We hope a comprehensive classification system will prevent new introductions of invasive species from occurring and slow the spread of those already here."

 

"We want to hear from the public whether this classification system works and if we have the right species in the right categories," Kearns says. "This is the first time Wisconsin has developed a comprehensive invasive species law in the state. It should address many of the shortfalls we see in the current piecemeal approach to our regulations."

 

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