------------------------------------ ----------------------------------
  Western Regional Panel:\             September 13 and 14, 2006\
  Annual Meeting Minutes               Smith Memorial Student Union\
                                       Portland State University,
                                       Portland, OR

  ------------------------------------ ----------------------------------

The Western Regional Panel (WRP) of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task
Force (ANSTF) held its annual meeting September 13 and 14, 2006, at
Portland State University (PSU), Portland, OR. Training on working
effectively with tribal governments was conducted on September 12, and
people could attend a guided field tip to the Columbia River Gorge on
September 15.

Participants heard reports on WRP-funded projects, member state ANS
efforts, economic issues related to zebra mussels in the West, a newly
discovered parasite, and the 100th Meridian Initiative website. Two
panels also discussed issues relating to the biology curricula pathway
and specific eradication projects.

In the afternoon of September 13, participants could attend several
presentations regarding introduced species held jointly with the Pacific
Northwest Region of the North American Lake Management Society.
Afterwards, the Native American Student and Community Center at PSU
hosted a salmon bake and featured Native American dancing.

# Decisions

-   The WRP approved adding the USFS as a member and accepting Kay
    Wallace as the new at-large member representing Alaska Natives.

-   John Wullschleger, Lynn Schlueter, Jason Goeckler, and Billie Kerans
    were elected to the Executive Committee.

-   Two projects were chosen for available WRP funding of \$30,000: Sara
    Pelleteri's expansion of Habitattitude to the outer main Hawaiian
    Islands (\$13,810, with an added evaluation component) and Catherine
    de Rivera's *Sphaeroma quoianum* surveys and outreach (\$14,658,
    contingent on Tim Davidson's enrollment at PSU). The remaining
    amount of \$1,532 will be distributed equally between the two
    projects.

-   The next WRP annual meeting will be held in Hawaii in mid-September
    2007.

# Actions Items

-   Tina Proctor will work on finding representatives from the Western
    Aquatic Plant Management Society and The Nature Conservancy.

-   Tina will solicit input on enhancing Bob McMahon's proposal on water
    body thermal regimes and funding it through the 100th Meridian
    Initiative.

-   Tina will coordinate conference calls regarding the WRP's
    perspective on rapid response. Those volunteering to participate
    included John Chapman, Tony Montgomery, Susan Ellis, Stephen
    Phillips, Paul Heimowitz, John Wullschleger, Eileen Ryce, and Larry
    Riley. Tina will then forward results to Scott Newsham to
    incorporate into the ANSTF agenda.

-   Paul Heimowitz will chair a biological supply house workgroup. Those
    interested included Pam Meacham, Kevin Anderson, Jeff Herod, and
    Joan Cabreza. Tina will email others asking if they're interested as
    well.

# Welcome

Co-chair Kevin Anderson, Puget Sound Action Team, welcomed participants
to the 10th meeting of the WRP. Of the 49 members of the WRP, 33 were in
attendance; 22 other participants also registered. Then Mark Sytsma,
Director of the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs (CLR) at PSU, commented
on progress made since Portland hosted the WRP meeting nine years ago.
Dan Diggs, USFWS Assistant Regional Director for Fisheries, said that
ANS management and control rose in priority in recent USFWS strategic
planning for fisheries. He described several collaborative efforts
addressing fisheries issues and ANS.

# WRP Funded Projects

Tina Proctor, USFWS Region 6 ANS Coordinator, introduced reports on
WRP-funded projects.

## Working with Mexico

Leigh Johnson, University of California Sea Grant Extension Program,
talked about establishing collaboration with Mexico to prevent hull
transport of aquatic invasive species (AIS) along the western regional
coast. Already, about 80% of boats in Baja California marinas are from
the United States, either for maintenance or recreation, and boat
traffic is likely to increase. Previous efforts to engage Mexican
participants failed, so this project focused on identifying prospective
Mexican participants, developing contacts in various industries and
organizations, and translating materials into Spanish for dissemination.
Leigh highlighted successful components of the project, including hiring
an enthusiastic bilingual staffer and making two trips to Ensenada to
meet new contacts, exchange perspectives, and explore opportunities for
collaboration. Overall, they learned that successful collaboration
relies on having fluent Spanish communication, building personal
relationships, understanding cultural norms, and funding participation
by Mexican colleagues. No efforts will be effective without Mexican
participation for research and outreach in Mexican ports and harbors.

One of the challenges to preventing hull transport is the difficulty in
cleaning marine boats relative to their freshwater counterparts that can
be transferred to trailers for cleaning. Leigh shared estimated costs
for cleaning hulls of marine boats. Information about hull-borne
invasive species and hull cleaning before departing and returning was
included on a bilingual poster (Stop Aquatic Invaders on Our
Coast!/¡Detenga el Transporte de Especies Invasoras Acuáticas en
Nuestras Costas! available from jagonzalez@ucdavis.edu), which has been
distributed in the United States, Mexico, and other countries. She
provided a list of other translated documents (available at
http://seagrant.ucdavis.edu) and others that will be available soon.
Leigh thanked the WRP for providing these funds, especially because they
covered expenses that other funding sources could not (such as work
outside the state or country).

## ANS Early Detection Program Prototype

Karen McDowell, San Francisco Estuary Project, talked about a prototype
booklet for early detection on which she and Joan Patton have begun
working. Although in the early stages, they will network with watershed
groups and create a booklet that can be used by these groups to identify
new invasive species, developing two samples for the San Francisco Bay
(one for creek habitat and one for estuarine habitat). She described the
booklet format, which will include information about AIS in general,
local areas, target species, contacts, useful web links, and
instructions. Plastic pockets will protect information from water and
facilitate updates. She and Joan will concentrate future efforts on
identifying contacts and species watch cards and engaging watershed
groups. Watershed groups currently involved are enthusiastic about
participating. One is staffed while others are volunteer-based. She
hopes to convene the advisory committee soon and complete the project in
late 2006/early 2007. The staff and time necessary for a detection
program to work are not yet in place, but Karen is working on the
California AIS management plan to encourage their availability in the
future.

## Desert Fishes Council Meeting

John Chapman, Oregon State University, presented on the WRP's funding
contribution to the Desert Fishes Council (DFC) meeting November 16--20,
2005, in Cuatro Cienegas, Cohuila, Mexico. Increasing international
cooperation for managing ANS has been a priority for the WRP, and the
DFC is a good link, given its close relationships with many Mexican
scientists.

John had initially worried that preventing the spread of ANS would not
be a priority issue in a country with limited resources. But he found
Mexican participants and regional politicians very concerned, especially
given the region's focus on ecotourism. The poor soil, hard water, and
overabundance of introduced *Arundo* render agriculture in the area
difficult and unsustainable. The economic viability of the area for
ecotourism is better but depends on maintaining the uniqueness of the
Cuatro Cienegas area and reducing threats to native flora and fauna. The
region has an endemic diversity of species that rivals the Galapagos
Islands.

Thanks to the nearly \$6,000 contribution, the WRP funded a Spanish
translator, provided funds to allow several Mexican scientists to
attend, and hosted a special session on nonindigenous species. The
meeting was the largest in DFC history. Susan Ellis, California
Department of Fish and Game, presented Tina with a shirt from the DFC
meeting.

## Research Priorities for Invasive Aquatic Plants

Mark Sytsma spoke about research priorities for AIS. Although
development of research priorities that address key biological,
ecological, and management questions is critical to help direct
available (and increasingly limited) funding, the WRP had been unable to
reach consensus, likely due to the diversity in habitats, organisms,
pathways, and management options for AIS.

So a group of aquatic plant managers and scientists met in La Jolla, CA,
to address submersed freshwater aquatic plants specifically. Mark
reviewed the nine workgroups that had been created and their chairs. All
the chairs prepared summaries of past research and directions and
presented their findings. Participants then broke out into their
workgroups, developed priorities for research, and identified obstacles.
Upon reporting to the full forum to develop recommendations, areas of
overlap became very clear. Following the workshop, people have been
writing papers that will be compiled. Draft research priorities for two
workgroups were presented to the Invasive Species Council Advisory
Committee in September. Final results from all the workgroups will be
presented at the next ISCAC meeting in July in Florida for endorsement.
The peer-reviewed *Journal of Aquatic Plant Management* has agreed to
publish workshop results. Mark plans to collect the remaining papers,
write an overview of the workshop, and submit it by the end of the year.

## Development of Preemptive Rapid Response Teams

Mark also updated participants on the development of preemptive rapid
response teams for *Trapa natans* (water chestnut) and *Lagorosiphon
major* (oxygen weed), a project led by Lars Anderson (USDA--Agricultural
Research Service). These species are not present in the western United
States, but if they appear, people should know how to respond.
Literature searches and expert contact lists have been completed for
both species. In addition, a "round table" pest/alarm exercise is
planned for late October or early November at UC--Davis. People with
experience will attend and help determine whether their control programs
can be used in western states. The exercise will also include a number
of topics, such as pathways, survey approaches, taxonomic expertise,
dispersal and reproduction, containment and control options, quarantine
and permitting issues, science advisory panels, and state ANS plan
guidance. Lars anticipates submitting a report by December 31. This
report will include summaries of recommendations, identification of gaps
in response resources, and appendices containing references and expert
contact information. Mark commented that this exercise could apply to
other species as well. He invited anyone interested to attend as an
observer. Tina mentioned that the ANSTF will talk about rapid response
at the November 7--9 meeting, so she will be interested in hearing
results of this exercise.

## Inventory of ANS Education and Outreach Materials

Robyn Draheim, PSU, spoke about the inventory of regional AIS education
and outreach materials that was undertaken to avoid duplication of
efforts, enhance exchange of readily available information and
resources, and highlight gaps in existing outreach efforts. Originally
funded for \$2,500, this project proved to be quite ambitious and
required an additional \$11,000. The initial funding allowed CLR staff
to identify brochures, fact sheets, public service announcements,
binders, posters, and other education and outreach materials and include
them in a searchable database. But it was inadequate for online use, so
the project was expanded and additional funding sought.

PSU's Academic Resources and Computing Department has created the
database design, added search capabilities and an authentication
feature, and uploaded an image catalog (to help with "image fatigue").
They are still developing the web interface and a peer-review evaluation
and comment system that will allow some registered users to rate
products. Once the beta version is available (tentatively by
mid-October), CLR staff will announce its debut and seek reviews. Given
interest expressed by other regions, the platform is designed to be
expandable, possibly to a national level. It will also be usable by a
variety of groups, including teachers. She asked that people enter new
materials into the database as they are developed. In response to
questions about maintenance, Robyn said that, if the database works as
it's supposed to, it should require little upkeep. PSU will do the
technical maintenance as long as the database is stored on its system.
The registration process is fairly rigorous to deter pranksters from
uploading garbage.

## Invasive Ecosystem Engineers in Salt Marshes

Some AIS impacts are direct interactions between the invader and native
species (e.g., predation or competition), but impacts of other invasives
are more indirect; that is, they affect other species through
modification to the habitat. As "ecosystem engineers," they change the
very essence of habitats, with possible effects that ripple throughout
the ecosystem. Jeff Crooks, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research
Reserve, spoke about a newly initiated WRP-funded project focused on two
invasive ecosystem engineers, a marine pillbug (*Sphaeroma quoyanum*)
and salt cedar (*Tamarisk* spp.), in the salt marshes of southern
California and northern Baja California.

Crooks reviewed project goals, including assessing the extent of the
problem and existing management activities, developing additional
management strategies, and communicating with resource managers in both
Mexico and the United States. He showed a map of the study area,
extending from Santa Barbara to about 200 miles south of San Diego.
Various habitats are included in the transition zones of the coastal
estuaries. Because these habitats are home to numerous endangered
species, investigators have been constrained at times, such as the
nesting seasons for several listed birds.

A tamarisk project in the Tijuana Estuary salt marshes, funded by NOAA
Sea Grant, allowed investigators to assess effects of invasive tree
removal to plant, bird, and other communities. One of the most
interesting findings was the "hybrid swarm" of tamarisk in the Tijuana
Estuary. The occurrence was thought to be *Tamarix ramosissima*, but
several hybrids were found, likely explaining the success of the
invasion: the offspring can live where the parents cannot. This same
kind of hybridization has been found in the San Francisco Estuary with
*Spartina.* Investigators then looked at tree species by elevation and
extended the project to the bioregion, with supplemental funding from
the WRP. Preliminary results showed distinct patterns with respect to
tidal elevation.

Through this research, investigators are examining other invaders,
especially the Australian isopod *S. quoyanam*. Although the extent of
this marine pillbug in the bioregion is unknown, its impacts are clear.
*Sphaeroma* burrows undercut banks and cause them to slump to the tidal
flat. Certainly other factors cause erosion as well, but this invader
clearly exacerbates the problem. The marshes aren't growing as they
would have done naturally, so it is difficult to assign the proportion
of loss due to the pillbug. Some work has been done to estimate numbers
and biomass based on burrow densities. Other invaders assessed include
the exotic sea lavender (*Limonium ramosissimum*) in the Carpinteria
salt marsh and perennial pepperweed (*Lepidium latifolium*). Although
these are not yet big problems in the southern California salt marshes,
they want to keep an eye on the situation.

## Pacific Coast Estuarine Information System

Debbie Reusser, USGS Western Fisheries Research Center, reported on the
PCEIS database (pronounced "Pisces"), which was initiated three years
ago with WRP funding. In 2003, the content was expanded with additional
funding secured through the proposal process. The USEPA provided funding
for more development and enhancement. At this point, version 1 of PCEIS
is in USEPA internal review. External distribution is scheduled to
follow peer review. PCEIS now includes over 8,000 invertebrate, fish,
and plant species associated with West Coast estuaries. The system links
information to publications and estuaries. However, not all the
taxonomic work is complete.

Debbie demonstrated the functionality of PCEIS, showing the wealth of
information that can be obtained. Users can print publication and
species lists, view maps, export data, and search by a number of
parameters. In 2007, they plan to expand the geographic scope to include
aquatic species in Alaska, Canada, and northern Mexico, wetland
restoration information beginning with Washington and Oregon, and
National Wetlands Inventory habitat information for estuarine areas;
synthesize habitat characteristics and biogeographic distributions; and
incorporate information from the new *Light and Smith Manual: Intertidal
Invertebrates from Central California to Oregon*, to be published soon.

Debbie also displayed a spreadsheet developed during the quality control
process. This document illustrated that infested estuaries generally had
many species of invaders. She is working on a proposal with Oregon State
University for web distribution, an activity planned for 2008.

## Assessment of Potential for Zebra Mussel Invasion in the Western United States

Bob McMahon, PhD, University of Texas at Arlington, spoke about a
thermal regime study funded last year by the WRP but not yet complete.
Zebra mussels (*Dreissena polymorpha*) have been invading water bodies
in Oklahoma that were thought to be too warm for the species to
establish. However, some Russian literature suggested that mussels in
the effluence of power plants adapted to a higher thermal regime. For
the thermal study, Bob used WRP and university funding to have PhD
students retest the upper thermal limits of zebra mussels to determine
whether a thermally tolerant strain could develop and spread to southern
waters. They also hope to better understand how mussels are appearing in
relatively isolated water bodies. Sampling at some of these water bodies
is complete. Genetic samples are also being collected so that genetic
fingerprints of isolated populations can be compared with those of
potential source populations. If results don't elucidate where currently
established populations came from, at least the genetic fingerprints
exist for comparison with future invasions. The Amplified Fragment
Length Polymorphisms (AFLP) analysis of genetic samples will begin this
September and be completed in December.

Bob summarized research objectives, methods, and water bodies included
in the study. Chronic thermal tolerance work has already been conducted
in the lab, while acute temperature testing will start this fall.
Testing will be repeated for samples taken during cooler winter months.
Although survival statistics aren't yet complete, preliminary results do
not indicate that zebra mussels are adapting to higher temperatures. The
summer water temperature profile was also analyzed for Lake Oolagah to
determine the degree of thermal selection experienced by its zebra
mussel population. Results showed that surface water temperatures rarely
exceeded the incipient upper thermal limit of 30 °C and then only for
short periods. Deeper lake waters rarely exceeded that limit at all.

Bob added that temperature profiling of water bodies may be useful for
identifying susceptibility of southwestern water bodies to zebra mussel
invasion. This information would be useful to managers. Follow-up
discussion focused on whether temperature data already existed for water
bodies in this region or could be collected via other approaches.

## Rapid Response Plan for Zebra Mussels in the Columbia River Basin

Stephen Phillips, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC),
explained that this project began with funding from NOAA to the WRP.
Funds were used to contract with Mike Fraidenburg, Dynamic Solutions
Group, who produced a draft plan last November based on a workshop and
other input. Paul Heimowitz, USFWS Region 1 ANS Coordinator, noted that
this initial effort had a strategic planning focus. Since then, Paul and
Stephen (with support from the 100^th^ Meridian Initiative Columbia
River team) have collaborated to make the plan more operational so that
managers know what to do if zebra mussels show up in the region (i.e., a
"road map"). In further developing the plan, they have considered a
number of other response plans and borrowed information when
appropriate. The current working draft was recently posted to the
Internet. One area of the plan that needs substantial work is the
definitions of roles and responsibilities. They also hope to incorporate
several detailed scenarios. A "tabletop" exercise in the future will
help point out additional gaps. Paul commented that the Bonneville
Hydoelectric Project has a specific response plan that is included as an
appendix to the basinwide plan; people on the field trip will hear more
about this. Paul noted that this plan is a living document and
encouraged people to review it and provide input.

Stephen added that permits and regulatory reviews are a huge issue in
rapid response. The plan talks to the issue, and a contractor is
studying the advance work that can be done to facilitate rapid response.
After the presentation, Kevin and Tina gave Stephen a plaque for PSMFC
to acknowledge the vital role it has played in administering WRP
research contracts and a Leatherman for his part.

# Member Reports

Co-chair Eileen Ryce, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks,
introduced members who highlighted specific projects. Full reports were
provided in a packet distributed to participants.

## States

**Oregon**---Mark Sytsma talked about work on hull fouling and
calculations of percent colonization cover on West Coast ships to better
understand their importance as a vector. Post-doctoral student Ian
Davidson has completed an initial hull-fouling survey of selected
"mothballed" fleet vessels for the U.S. Maritime Administration. MARAD
allows the crew to assess hull fouling before a "soft scrub," but there
is generally insufficient time to do a thorough assessment. Details of
the assessment and taxonomic information will be released after MARAD
reviews the findings. Ian is also completing his assessment of hull
fouling as a vector of AIS. He recently finished several weeks of video
work assessing fouling on commercial vessel hulls in San Francisco Bay
for the California Department of Lands.

**Arizona**---Larry Riley, Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD),
said that, in April 2005, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano issued an
Executive Order to establish the Invasive Species Advisory Council. This
27-member citizen panel was charged with identifying current statutory
authorities, rules, and programs and developing a coordinated,
multiple-stakeholder approach to invasive species management in the
state. The council completed its charge and submitted findings and
recommendations in June 2006. A recent fire in the Sonoran Desert
emphasized the need for a longer-term effort. The state is working on a
follow-up Executive Order, although details are unknown at this point
(possibly a center for invasive species and some degree of legislation).
In the meantime, a report with Southwest strategies was developed to
coordinate efforts by Arizona and New Mexico. This report has been well
received.

**California**---Susan Ellis reported that the state declared *Caulerpa*
*taxifolia* as eradicated from California!

**Hawaii**---According to Tony Montgomery, Hawaii Department of Land and
Natural Resources, in 2003, Hawaii created the Hawaii Invasive Species
Council to address both terrestrial and aquatic invasives. The aquatic
component has good funding, with eight staff and other biologists
involved. Draft ballast water regulations are nearly finalized, after
which they will be reviewed by the Attorney General's office. Montgomery
also mentioned two eradication projects, for mushroom anemone
(*Actinodiscus nummifornis*) and five targeted species of alien algae.
For the latter, they have used the "Supersucker," a vacuum mounted on a
barge that has proven highly efficient. These efforts are followed by
control measures. They hope to build another smaller barge that can
operate in shallow water near shore.

**Kansas**---Jason Goeckler, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks,
commented that, in the afternoon joint session, he would present on
zebra mussels in El Dorado Reservoir. Although this invasive was
reported in Cheney Reservoir, which supplies water for Wichita, Jason
was unable to find any there: so far, it has been classified as
uninfested. However, silver carp have now been reported in the state,
and results of surveys indicate that spawning is occurring.

**Montana**---Eileen reported on an evaluation being conducted on the
effectiveness of two traveler information system (TIS) stations in
Montana. Surveys were finished during Labor Day weekend, so results are
preliminary. Although one site is on an interstate and one is on a rural
highway, results were similar, with about 50% to 60% of respondents
saying that they saw the signs. However, very few people tuned in to the
radio station given; those who did were locals who eventually became
curious about the signs. She will have more information at the 100th
Meridian Initiative meeting next month.

**North Dakota**---Lynn Schlueter, North Dakota Game and Fish
Department, said that over 80 lakes were surveyed over the summer to
monitor for ANS. Finds include curlyleaf pondweed (*Potamogeton
crispus*) and Eurasian watermilfoil (*Myriophyllum spicatum*) in the
Sheyenne River, and survey results were fed into a database for
continued monitoring. The AIS Committee is moving ahead on regulation,
although Lynn is especially concerned about the marketing needed to
change people's behavior.

**South Dakota**---Andy Burgess, South Dakota Department of Game, Fish
and Parks, has replaced Jeff Shears as the state's representative to the
WRP. Jeff moved to another position with the state. The agency partnered
with South Dakota State University on a pallid sturgeon (*Scaphirhyncus
albus*) study. Although project motivation was primarily to determine
prey availability to juvenile hatchery-reared pallid sturgeon, a
concurrent benefit includes an active monitoring program for
macroinvertebrate ANS, especially zebra mussels. Data loggers for that
study have been installed on substrates suitable for zebra mussels. To
date, no zebra mussels have been found, but he appreciated the efficient
use of resources.

**Texas**---Dr. Earl Chilton, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department,
reported that the Texas Invasive Species Task Force has been organized.
Eight state agencies are involved, and details are still being worked
out. They are continuing to work on the state comprehensive management
plan and collaborating with Mexican officials on aquatic invasive plant
control in the Rio Grande River (from the coast to about 400--500 miles
upstream).

**Washington**---Pam Meacham, Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife, mentioned several activities occurring in the state, including
an expanded boater-monitoring program, educational responsibilities
shifted to a dedicated full-time enforcement officer in the ANS program,
and an early detection/rapid response template for a plan. The state is
also moving forwarding on implementing and enforcing the State Ballast
Water Act. Under this act, vessel operators have to report how they will
deal with the law change in 2007, given that there will no longer be a
safety exclusion.

**Alaska**---Bob Piorkowski, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, talked
about a ballast water treatment technology workshop held recently, for
which a paper will soon be published. Given around 6,000 ships landing
in Alaska a year, discharge is a high priority. Other emphases include
border control training, European green crab (*Carcinus maenas*)
training, tunicate projects, and education and outreach materials. A
USEPA grant was used to start an invasive species workgroup with 40
members from federal, state, and private entities.

**Idaho**---According to Fred Partridge, Idaho Department of Fish and
Game, a member of the state legislature became interested in Eurasian
watermilfoil, which has facilitated invasive species issues. The state
was able to direct \$4 million of surplus money through the Department
of Agriculture to address the watermilfoil problem, mostly in northern
and southwestern Idaho.

## Provinces

**British Columbia**---Gary Caine, British Columbia Ministry of
Agriculture and Lands, said that the federal government is in charge of
tidal water while provincial governments are in charge of fresh water.
ANS in British Columbia include pumpkinseed (*Lepomis gibbosusin*) in
many lakes, northern pike (*Esox lucius*) is one lake in Region 4
(Kootenay), red-eared slider turtle (*Trachemys scripta elegans*), North
American bullfrog (*Rana catesbeiana*), green frog (*Rana clamitans*),
largemouth bass (*Micropterus salmoides*), smallmouth bass (*Micropterus
dolomieui*), brown bullhead (*Ameiurus nebulosus*), yellow perch (*Perca
flavescens*), common carp (*Cyprinus carpio*, introduced around 1935),
and goldfish. One snakehead (*Channa argus*) was found in Okanagan Lake
last summer. The British Columbia Ministry of Environment will convene a
workshop next week to develop a policy framework targeted at addressing
illegal introductions of freshwater sportfish to the province. If it's
successful, the approach will be expanded to other introduction means.

## Federal Agencies

**Environmental Protection Agency**---Joan Cabreza, USEPA Region 10 IS
Coordinator, commented that, because authority for invasives is
nebulous, she has focused on information transfer and coordination. The
USEPA has numerous grants available. Some grant projects underway
include studies on regional pathways, a genetic analysis of certain
invaders along the West Coast to determine their origins and pathways,
development of the Oregon rapid response plan, development of the
Washington biodiversity action plan, and various educational materials.

**Fish and Wildlife Service**---Paul Heimowitz spoke on behalf of Mike
Stempel, Assistant Regional Director for USFWS Region 6. His update
covered five USFWS regions all contained within the geographical area of
the WRP. Common themes in these five regions include prevention through
such means as the 100th Meridian Initiative, trailer stickers,
interactive guides for boat quarantines, a database of state laws and
regulations regarding enforcement, and Hazard Analysis and Critical
Control Point (HACCP) training and planning. Among the species being
addressed are the freshwater Amur goby (*Rhinogobius brunneus*) recently
discovered in the lower Columbia River, purple loosestrife (*Lythrum
salicaria*) in Alaska, water snakes (*Nerodia* spp.) in California, and
New Zealand mudsnail (*Potamopyrgus antipodarum*). He congratulated Tina
for completing the draft mudsnail control and management plan and
presenting it to the ANSTF.

**Geological Survey**---David Woodson, USGS Western Fisheries Research
Center, reported that the Center has set up a new invasive species
section and hired Scott Smith to lead it. The Columbia River Research
Laboratory (CRRL) is continuing research on American shad (*Alosa
sapidissima*), which have become so abundant during their upstream
migration to spawn that they are now about three times as common as
adult salmon (*Oncorhynchus tshawytscha*). The CRRL is also conducting a
study on European watermilfoil.

**National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration**---According to Blake
Feist, National Marine Fisheries Service, Northwest Fisheries Science
Center, one new project involves modeling research on the potential for
European green crab expansion up the West Coast, funded through the
National Sea Grant Program and Northwest Fisheries Science Center.
Investigators will collaborate with a physical oceanographer and others.
Currently, no green crab populations appear to be establishing, but
there is concern about potential establishment. Research tasks include a
literature review of impacts worldwide, a larvae dispersal model,
habitat suitability indices, potential conditions resulting from global
climate change, a risk assessment, and an economic impact assessment.

## Other Coastal Interests

**At-Large Coastal Interests**---John Chapman has completed a paper for
publication on impacts of an introduced parasitic isopod on native mud
shrimp in an Oregon estuary. This is the first obligate marine invader
and perhaps the most ecologically significant marine ballast water
invasion of the eastern Pacific. Another paper has been accepted for
publication in *Biological Invasions* on the introduction of the marine
snail *Littorina littorea* in the western Atlantic. John has also
completed a chapter of the *Light and Smith Manual: Intertidal
Invertebrates from Central California to Oregon*, 4th edition. His
chapter covers all 330 native and introduced shallow-water marine and
estuarine gammaridean amphipods of the northeastern Pacific between the
Columbia River and Point Conception, CA. The manual should be published
in 2007 and useful for rapid response.

**CALFED**---Jeff Herod, Non-native Invasive Species Program
Coordinator, invited participants to visit the CALFED website for
information about NIS Program projects. The CALFED Watershed Program
recently funded a proposal to host three regional symposia focusing on
area watershed groups and their invasive species successes and needs.
These symposia will run a day and a half each, leaving a half day for
HACCP training.

**Inland Academia/Research Interests**---Bob McMahon talked about a
state-supported study of the physiological limits of the freshwater
apple snail, *Pomacea canaliculata*, introduced to southeastern Texas.
The state is concerned about rice crops and other species. This snail,
which he called a "piranha" snail, has a high salinity, pH, and
dessication tolerance. At the university, they are also looking at novel
antifouling compounds for zebra mussel and working with Region 2 to
maintain a number of websites and databases.

**Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission**---Stephen Phillips, ANS
Program Manager, reported that the PSMFC hosted a June workshop on
alternative ballast water exchange areas, provided administrative
support and staffing for numerous ANS interjurisdictional efforts,
continued to provide support for several monitoring projects, and
collaborated with several other agencies on drafting a rapid response
plan for zebra mussels in the Columbia River basin.

**San Francisco Estuary Project**---Karen McDowell also invited people
to read more about SFEP projects on its website. Staff representing SFEP
participated in the General Technical Advisory Group, Technical Advisory
Group for Ballast Water Discharge Standards, and Vessel Fouling Advisory
Group, all coordinated by the California State Lands Commission. In
addition, the state AIS management plan is out for agency and public
comment, with comments due by September 22.

# Panel: ANS in the Classroom

Paul Heimowitz initiated discussion on science curricula as a pathway
for ANS introductions. Efforts have included a now out-of-print booklet
by the Washington Sea Grant and the Habittatitude campaign focused on
the pet trade and industry. Habitattitude messages are applicable to
this issue, but audiences differ, instead including teachers, curricula
developers, and biological supply houses. He introduced panelists Samuel
Chan, Larry Riley, Mark Hitchcox, and Bob Flanders. The goal of the
panel was to raise awareness of this pathway, consider examples of local
efforts that might work at a broader scale, determine whether the issue
needs national action, and if so, make a recommendation to the ANSTF.

## Schools and Science Curricula as Potential Pathways for Aquatic Invasive Species

Sam Chan, Oregon Sea Grant College Program and Extension Service at
Oregon State University, passed around a binder with a FOSS (Full Option
Science System) curriculum used throughout North American. FOSS is a
research-based science program for grades K--8 developed at the Lawrence
Hall of Science at UC‑Berkeley. Live species commonly used in classrooms
(e.g., rusty crayfish \[*Orconectes rusticus*\] and Brazilian elodea
\[*Elodea densa*\]) highlight a potential AIS problem involving both
technical and social issues. This issue of schools, curriculum, and
biological supply houses extends well beyond state borders and is
international in scope. It first came to his attention in the spring of
1995 when a colleague attended a parent-teacher conference and was
invited to help release lab species into a local creek. She was
uncertain how to proceed, but she did address the issue with the
teacher. In examining the curriculum, they discovered that it includes
little or no information about the specific species used or their
disposal. (The curriculum says that releasing the specimens is all right
if they are native to the system, but since teachers don't know which
species of crayfish they are using, it is difficult to impossible to
determine whether they are native.) Instead, teachers infer that, if the
supply houses provide them, the species must be acceptable.

They began researching the curriculum and involved parties and
developing a brochure to address the short-term goal of providing
schools with \\information and resources about AIS. Medium-term goals
include providing AIS information built on science and social knowledge
and informing students and teachers about more ecologically benign
options for dealing with organisms. In the longer term, goals could
include stopping use of invasive species (but that approach would ignore
an important teaching opportunity) or incorporating concepts of
biological invasions and invasive species awareness and prevention into
existing lesson plans and using native species or instream learning.

Sam also shared some project outcomes specific to the biological supply
houses, including developing AIS prevention literature jointly,
encouraging suppliers to use local or less invasive organisms, and
providing training on stewardship. He shared possible updated
animal-care instructions for crayfish that could be included in the
curriculum, as well as solutions that a 4th-grade classroom
brainstormed.

## Control and Management of AIS in the Curriculum

Larry Riley, AZGFD, reported that the Partnership in Amphibian and
Reptile Conservation (PARC) identified several major challenges to
herpetofaunal conservation, including invasive species, and anticipated
the issue of AIS in established curricula. With the AZGFD, PARC created
a "Don't Turn It Loose!" brochure to inform educators, students, and
others about impacts that released pets may have on native species of
amphibians and reptiles and their ecosystems, especially regarding
pathogens and competition for resources. Members of the PARC Southeast
Regional Working Group plan to adapt the brochure to their region. PARC
has also begun discussions with partners in the Pet Industry Joint
Advisory Council (PIJAC) about incorporating these ideas into
Habitattitude.

Another outreach project concerned crayfish species, none of which are
native to Arizona but which have become problematic in the state. Rather
than vilifying crayfish, the AZGFD chose to stimulate people to harvest
them. This approach has worked well, and instructions for catching and
cooking crayfish are included in another brochure ("Crayfish: Ugh and
Yum!").

The state was also concerned about the science curriculum. Eric Proctor,
AZGFD, developed a lesson plan for 4th graders. To ensure its adoption,
he aligned it with state education standards. It is critical to help
educators understand how these topics can help them meet
state-identified standards for curriculum and educational outcomes.
Larry mentioned the Trout in the Classroom curriculum provided by Trout
Unlimited. After taking care of the fry, students release the trout into
state-approved waters, an action that could result in pathogen
introduction. TU directs interested educators to coordinate with their
state wildlife authority about acquisition of eggs or release of fish.

Larry listed actions that the ANSTF has taken regarding curriculum:
addressing the issue of science fair use of potentially invasive
species, the Gulf of Mexico Regional Panel including a charge to the
Education and Outreach Work Group in its 2003--2004 work plan, and
corresponding with Intel with related recommendations. California's
draft AIS plan also includes several measures for addressing the issue.
Habitattitude and PARC efforts have provided invaluable strategies for
social marketing that should be followed. Consideration needs to be
given to the specific audiences, ways to reach them, desired outcomes,
and the scale of action.

## Regulatory Oversight and Activities Pertaining to Aquatic Pest Species

Bob Flanders and Mark Hitchcox, Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ),
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, spoke about changes in APHIS
regulations and actions regarding ANS. According to Bob, in the Plant
Protection Act of 2000, Congress gave APHIS authority to protect plants
from anything that negatively impacted them. Although this charge was
broad, they were primarily interested in invertebrate pests.
Historically, terrestrial pests were given greater consideration than
aquatic plants, algae, and plant debris. With increasing damage to rice
crops by the channeled apple snail (*Pomacea canaliculata*), PPQ's
perspective changed, as reflected in the April 2006 Federal Register
notice on permit requirements for movement of aquatic snails. Impacts of
the changed regulations were greater than they had foreseen. The
production industry is very profitable, and major distribution networks
have been moving snails for up to 60 years. Many sales are made over the
Internet, and although moving freshwater snails interstate is a
violation, possession is not. (Marine snails are not plant pests under
APHIS's authority, so only importation to the country is a violation.)
Bob summarized modifications to the policy and listed interactions that
APHIS has with the regulated community, including attendance and a booth
at National Science Teachers Association conferences.

Mark then talked about activities on the ground in Oregon. Although the
Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection inspects
imports at Portland and Coos Bay, PPQ works closely on identification
and protection. There is also interest in interstate movement. His
duties are not generally aquatics oriented, but he invited input on
integrating aquatic issues into the Cooperative Agricultural Pest
Surveys (CAPS), funded at \$1.5 million in Oregon in 2006. "Hotzone"
surveys cover niches that the state is not specifically looking for,
such as exotic terrestrial mollusks that attach to containers and cargo
and can infest seed and grain shipments. Such species are found quite
frequently, and his office is sometimes notified of aquatic hitchhikers
as well. Mark also mentioned industrial pathways (nursery and aquarium
trades), as well as cultural pathways (consumption and education).
Outreach includes participation at science teacher conferences and the
Summer Agriculture Institute. Notices were sent to science teachers in
Oregon, and his office is working with the Oregon Museum of Science and
Industry on a traveling exhibit. Future efforts include more market
visits, CAP surveys on high-risk aquatic plant pests, and continued
outreach to schools, Summer Agriculture Institute, and the media.

## Discussion

During subsequent discussion, the following suggestions were made,
although no specific action items were assigned:

-   Using scientific names in import, transport, and permit
    documentation to facilitate identification.

-   Collecting information at points of entry to measure the permitting
    "track record."

-   Trying to add aquatic plants into the APHIS definition of plants.

-   Working with watershed councils on the science curricula issue.

# Economic Analysis of Zebra Mussels in the West

Tina introduced two speakers, Stephen Phillips and David Lodge,
discussing potential economic impacts of zebra mussels coming into the
West.

# Potential Economic Impacts of Zebra Mussels on Hydropower Facilities in the Columbia River Basin

Stephen Phillips updated participants on the PSMFC ANS Program. In 2004,
the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) funded a scoping study to
determine potential economic impacts of zebra mussels on its hydropower
facilities in the Columbia River basin. PSU (Mark Sytsma) and the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE, Tim Darland) were also authors on
the study. For the scoping study, PSMFC investigators assessed
facilities at Bonneville Dam. Because salmon are important to the
Pacific Northwest culture, there was concern about the immense impact
that zebra mussels could have on the salmon industry if they established
in the Columbia River system. Zebra mussels would affect upstream and
downstream fish passage facilities, several components of which were
shown in his presentation.

For the study, they looked at 13 of 31 federal dams of varying sizes and
generation capabilities. They broke costs down per generator using two
mitigation technologies and then expanded those costs to the 13
facilities, based on the number of generators at each. The two
technologies were sodium hypochlorite injection (to keep veligers from
settling) and antifouling paint, neither of which is necessarily a
recommendation. Phillips detailed sources for estimating the costs and
the math used. Ultimately, the estimated cost to install the sodium
hypochlorite injection system was \$62,599 per generator, while annual
operational costs were estimated at approximately \$100,000 per project.
The estimated cost of antifouling paint was \$81,000 per generator (not
including labor and installation). These estimates do not cover
generation downtime. Using these estimates, the total capital costs of
implementing these mitigation technologies at the 13 hydropower
facilities would be \$23,621,000. He suggested that people read the
report at www.aquaticnuisance.org.

He commented that, although Columbia River water quality parameters are
favorable to zebra mussel colonization, the Columbia River has lower
plankton densities than the Mississippi River or Great Lakes have. These
lower levels *may* limit zebra mussel population densities to much lower
levels. Phillips also listed several afterthoughts, including the need
for more information on antifouling paints, the lack of interest to date
in investing in mitigation technology, alternative mitigation
technologies, environmental assessments that might be needed for any
mitigation, and engineering consultation with Ontario Hydro and other
hydropower facilities. Ongoing rapid response planning in the Columbia
River basin should help address some of these concerns.

# Economic Analysis of Zebra Mussels in the West

David Lodge, University of Notre Dame, also gave a presentation on
preliminary results of an economic analysis of zebra mussels in the
West. He distributed copies of his final report, *Aquatic Nuisance
Species---Evaluating the Ecological and Economic Value of the 100th
Meridian Initiative.* The analysis was initiated with funding from the
100th Meridian Initiative and supplemented by NOAA Sea Grant. The
research team included both economists, who conducted most of the
analysis, and ecologists, who provided technical information. It focused
on the Great Lakes as the beachhead for secondary invasions since the
Great Lakes are connected to virtually every port in the world.

One question to answer was whether suitable habitat existed in the
United States where zebra mussels did not already occur. He showed a map
of suitable habitat identified using the genetic algorithm for rule-set
production (GARP) approach. Investigators then looked at U.S. areas
where zebra mussels had already invaded and their maximum observed
densities in those areas. Results were analyzed, using a model by
Ramcharan based on European data, to predict densities in places where
the species does not occur (e.g., Roosevelt Lake and Lake Mead).

The next question was about the likelihood of the species getting to
these places alive. They used a gravity model to simulate movement of
recreational boaters in the United States. Although calculating
probabilities from results was difficult, they came up with rough
estimates. So now data are available about locations of suitable
habitat, the likelihood of nuisance densities, and probability of
movement.

The last question was about financial costs. They didn't attempt to
assess nonmarket costs (e.g., extirpation of native clams). Rather,
economists analyzed the market costs, such as clogged water intake
pipes, using computable general equilibrium (CGE) modeling. Numbers that
Stephen provided (see section above) were provided, as well as other
data from the hydropower, agriculture, and water supply industries.

David showed a graph depicting scenarios of annual costs of zebra
mussels in the Columbia River basin relative to 2001 baseline data.
According to the simulation, the expected valued of annual loss under an
invasion would be \$1.5 million. Several factors confound this result:

-   The probability of invasion could be lower because the percentage of
    boats is probably greater than the probability of invasion. On the
    other hand, it could be higher because other pathways may exist.

-   The welfare loss estimate is an underestimate because it is based on
    market values only, impacts of zebra mussel only (while the Meridian
    Initiative efforts are effective against other species as well), and
    the Columbia River basin only.

# Joint Session with PNALMS

Mark welcomed people to a joint session with the Pacific Northwest
Region of the North American Lake Management Society (PNALMS).

## Zebra Mussel in El Dorado Reservoir, Kansas---Monitoring, Containment and Control Strategies, and Lessons Learned

Jason Goeckler talked about zebra mussels in El Dorado Reservoir, KS.
The reservoir was constructed in 1981, covers an area of 8,000 surface
acres, and has a mean depth of 19 feet. Zebra mussels infested the
reservoir in 2001. Counts in 2003 indicated 135 mussels/m^2^ while
24,178/m^2^ were found in 2004. Routine studies of plankton samples
under cross-polarized light detected veliger densities of 236/L in July
2006. Numbers have been rising since sampling began in 2004.

Using drawdowns as a control measure appears to be of little value since
zebra mussels are present at all depths and quickly recolonize dried
areas. In addition, costs outweigh the benefits. So current management
practices focus on protecting other water bodies and conducting genetic
analysis to determine where populations come from, risk assessments to
determine potential invasion sites, population monitoring to determine
whether the mussels are impending flow, and containment research to
evaluate the potential for spread.

Fisheries management includes stocking the reservoir with native fish
that feed on the mussels and educating the public through the media.
Additional public education includes distributing brochures and
windshield flyers, partnering with citizen groups who are concerned
about children cutting their feet on the mussels, partnering with the
Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! campaign, adding information to fishing
regulations, and developing a website.

## What Factors Mediate the Impacts of Introduced Species? Investigating the Success of Kokanee since Establishment of Lake Trout and Mysis relicta in a Large, Oligotrophic Lake

Erik Schoen, University of Washington, Washington Cooperative Fish and
Wildlife Research Unit, School of Aquatic and Fishery Science, reported
on graduate research he has conducted so far with David Beauchamp,
Nathanael Overman, and Christopher Sergeant. Species introductions can
have devastating impacts on aquatic communities. The opossum shrimp
(*Mysis relicta*) and the top predator lake trout (*Salvelinus
namaycush*) have been blamed for reducing planktivorous fish populations
in many lakes across western North America, but in a few systems, they
appear to have little adverse effect.

Lake Chelan is located in Washington east of the Cascade crest. It is 50
miles long and the ninth deepest lake in the world. The lake is composed
of two basins---the shallower, bowl-shaped Wapato basin and the
extremely deep Lucerne basin. This difference makes Lake Chelan an ideal
site to test whether differences in lake morphometry mediate the impacts
of introduced species. In Lake Chelan, kokanee (*Oncorhynchus nerka*)
have thrived, even in the presence of *Mysis relicta* and lake trout,
leading researchers to ask why these species can coexist in this
particular lake. Specific questions that his team strove to answer
included how many mysids and kokanee were in the lake, how much
zooplankton each individual ate, how much zooplankton was produced in
the lake and available to planktivores, and whether the availability of
mysids caused lake trout to grow into a more effective predator on
kokanee.

Mysid abundance was estimated with vertical hauls at night, and
zooplankton abundance was estimated with vertical hauls during the day.
Mysid vertical distribution was determined from hydroacoustic surveys. A
bioenergetics model was used to estimate how much of the zooplankton
biomass was consumed by mysids during each season of the year. Kokanee
abundance was estimated with hydroacoustic analysis using echo-counting
and age-structured population modeling based on spawner survey data.
Lake trout were caught in gill nets, and their stomach contents
analyzed.

Preliminary conclusions indicate that mysid predation is not a
significant source of mortality for zooplankton (except possibly during
winter and spring in Lucerne basin); mysids and kokanee may be too
dispersed to serve as an effective food source for lake trout in the
Lucerne basin, where kokanee spend most of the year; and lake basin
morphometry may mediate the impact of these introduced species.

## Controlling the Spread of New Zealand mudsnail from Field Gear with Dry Ice in Portable Coolers

Scott Wiedemer, Marine Resource Management graduate program, and Sam
Chan, Assistant Professor with the Oregon Sea Grant College Program and
Extension Service at Oregon State University, have been working with
West Coast Watershed Councils to reduce the spread of New Zealand
mudsnails. This species, introduced into the Snake River in 1987, is now
found in 10 western states. The mudsnail is very small and easily
transported on boats, trailers, or wading gear and during fishery
operations. It adapts well to varying water conditions, survives extreme
events such as dewatering, and dominates the benthic layer where it has
invaded.

Gear treatment protocol is needed to limit mudsnail spread. Physical
cleaning is possible but inefficient, and chemical options can damage
the gear and carry ecological risks. Prior research indicates that both
desiccation and freezing for one hour at --3 °C kills New Zealand
mudsnails, but these measures are difficult to implement in the field.
Wiedemer hypothesized dry ice in a portable cooler as a workable
solution.

He conducted experiments using three coolers containing 10 pounds of dry
ice and three pieces of gear planted with three patches of 15 adult New
Zealand mudsnails, for a total of 135 mudsnails per cooler. Results
indicate that the dry ice must be placed at the top of the cooler for
nearly 100% mortality. Otherwise, temperature stratification occurs with
warmer temperatures near the top and colder temperatures at the bottom.
Adding gear to the cooler raises the temperature, suggesting that
exposure periods greater than 2 hours may be necessary to achieve lethal
freezing temperatures throughout most of the cooler. There was no
observable damage to the gear. Despite the apparent success of the
measure, challenges include access to dry ice in remote locations and
sublimation of any packed dry ice. Packing dry ice together in a smaller
cooler will slow sublimation and allow longer storage of dry ice.

## Modeling Dispersal of New Zealand Mudsnails in Oregon

"Michael" Chi-Chang Liu presented on the need to predict the spread of
the New Zealand mudsnail. He displayed a map of Oregon showing the
mudsnail spreading down the coast in a "leapfrog" pattern. To help
understand mudsnail dispersal, Michael developed a model from the
modified law of gravitation (Newton). Application of the gravity model
to recreational boats in Oregon coastal counties is a two-step
mechanism, including 1) the probability of a boat becoming contaminated
when visiting an infested lake and 2) the probability of a contaminated
boat introducing the species to an uninfested lake.

Although extensive work, including field surveys and lab studies, has
been conducted to predict the suitability of an uninfested lake, the
suitability of every lake was assumed as 100%, an assumption that proved
to be inaccurate. Data were collected and fed into the model. Results
indicate that sites for potential contamination are close to a
contaminated water body or large population center. According to the
model, the potential for lake invasion in the county was highest where
the population (thus the number of boats) was very large and/or very
close to the infested water body and/or where the water body had many
boat ramps with a higher number of visitors.

The suitability analysis can be based on multiple linear regression or
Bayesian inference network. From this model, researchers can learn more
about potential infested lakes after a time period, behavior of the
invasive event through a time series, and important mechanisms and
stages of invasion. Michael encouraged participants to view the model at
www.ent.orst.edunzms/default/aspx. Management suggestions and future
research include cleaning boats and trailers before leaving contaminated
waters, concentrating efforts on high-risk waters as predicted by the
model, educating the public, and focusing on vectors.

# WRP Business Meeting

Tina and Kevin led the discussion on several business items:

-   *WRP priorities*. Kevin thanked those members who responded to a
    request several months ago to help identify funding priorities. He
    plans to continue working on these priorities for the next two
    years. Tina asked that people participate in the decision-making
    process whenever their input is needed.

-   *WRP membership*. Tina reviewed changes in membership. Scott Smith
    replaces Lyman Thorsteinson as the USGS representative. Anita Shaul,
    Nevada Department of Wildlife, has retired but no one new has been
    appointed in her place yet. Vicki Milano, Colorado Division of
    Wildlife, is the acting ANS coordinator. Andy Burgess is the new
    representative from the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and
    Parks, while Walter Donaldson is the interim replacement for Don
    Archer, recently retired from the Utah Division of Wildlife
    Resources. Pam Meacham is acting representative from the Washington
    Department of Fish and Wildlife. Tony Montgomery and Sara Pelleteri,
    Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, were in attendance,
    but no official representative has been appointed yet. Lisa Ka'aihue
    replaces Marilyn Leland as representative for the Prince William
    Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Council.

> Votes were taken on adding the USFS as a federal member and replacing
> Jack Lorrigan, Alaska Natives, with Kay Wallace. Both motions passed
> unanimously. The first issue requires a change to the "Western
> Regional Panel Guide to Procedures." Tina will continue working to
> secure representation from the Western Aquatic Plant Society and The
> Nature Conservancy.

-   *WRP funded projects 2004--2006*. Kevin reviewed a handout listing
    WRP-funded projects for the last three years and their status.
    Presentations had already been given on some of these projects.

-   *WRP 2006 work plan*. Because the PSMFC is no longer going to be the
    fiscal agent for the WRP, 2006 funds had to be obligated by the end
    of June. The Executive Committee considered three proposals in May
    and decided to fund a pilot study by Ian Davidson, PSU and
    Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, characterizing the risk
    of species transfer on recreational boats in marine systems via hull
    fouling.

-   *Annual report to the ANSTF*. Scott Newsham, Executive Secretary for
    the ANSTF, developed a template for regional panels to report to the
    ANSTF. The idea was to keep the report simple and include
    recommendations. The annual report to the ANSTF for 2005--2006
    summarized the WRP's strategic planning process, the five priorities
    identified, accomplishments related to those priorities, and three
    key recommendations to the ANSTF: 1) clear guidelines of ANSTF
    committees and how the WRP can become more involved, 2) coordination
    of an interpanel and international project to provide ANS materials
    to recreational boaters at border crossings with Canada, and
    3) consideration of consistent and equitable funding regarding
    ballast water technology between the Atlantic, Pacific, Great Lakes,
    and Gulf Coast. Scott commented that on November 6, the regional
    panel heads will meet to discuss issues that regions have in common
    and forward recommendations to the ANSTF during the November 7--9
    meeting.

-   *Executive Committee elections*. The ballot for four Executive
    Committee positions listed five candidates for two-year terms: Susan
    Ellis, John Wullschleger, Lynn Schlueter, Jason Goeckler, and Billie
    Kerans. Susan declined a seat on the committee, citing other ways in
    which she can contribute to the WRP. John, Lynn, Jason, and Billie
    were elected.

## Proposal Presentations

The WRP, which has \$30,000 available, solicited proposals for projects
that address high-priority issues for ANS. Kevin provided a summary of
project applications, commenting that all were reviewed to ensure that
they addressed priority issues, and introduced those requesting funds so
that they could present their proposals. Following the presentations,
members discussed the merits of the various projects and voted on which
would receive funds.

### Thermal Regimes of Water Bodies Potentially at Risk for Zebra Mussel Invasion in the Southwest

Bob McMahon proposed to extend the study of thermal regimes of water
bodies potentially at risk for zebra mussel invasion in the Southwest to
include an additional 21 water bodies. Given that zebra mussels don't
appear to be developing a thermal tolerance, temperature profiling could
help identify which water bodies are susceptible to invasions by zebra
mussels or other invasives for which thermal tolerances are known.
Temperature profiling is relatively inexpensive and easy to do, and
temperature is often one of the most important factors for determining
habitat suitability. Bob thought that this study could be considered a
feasibility study for a nationwide effort. He then listed ways in which
this study aligns with WPR objectives for regional coordination,
prevention, early detection and rapid response, education, and
cooperation with Canada and Mexico.

### Humboldt Bay Cooperative Eelgrass Project

Susan Ellis spoke on behalf of Susan Schlosser, California Sea Grant,
regarding a coastwide effort in Humboldt Bay to eradicate eelgrass
(*Zostera marina*). Objectives of the project include identifying
high-priority ANS in intertidal habitats of Humboldt Bay and the Eel
River Estuary (known and potential); for each species, identifying the
types of data desirable to determine the level of threat posed by the
species and/or data needed to implement control/eradication measures;
and designing a multispecies survey protocol with integrated data
collection to the extent feasible. With the WRP portion of funds, they
will develop the priority list. They also hope to improve collaboration
by involving nongovernmental organizations and others.

### Control Plan for Invasive Water Snakes in the Western United States

Jeff Herod, USFWS, presented for Eric Stitt, USFWS, on developing a
control plan for invasive water snakes in the western United States and
setting management priorities and tactics for *Nerodia* spp.
populations. There are several concerns about these snakes. For example,
few snake species have become established, but those that have are
problematic. *Nerodia* spp., which prefer temperate areas, are
viviparous and habitat generalists. These water snakes have demonstrated
an ability to establish populations and are now documented in several
western states, although the status of populations is unknown. And they
could have negative impacts to several endangered or threatened species,
such as the giant garter snake (*Thamnophis gigas*).

Objectives of the project include providing a framework for western
states to manage and control invasive *Nerodia* and similar snakes,
producing a control plan that defines management options, and
identifying and prioritizing specific management actions needed and
communicating the needs for these actions. Herod discussed proposed
activities and deliverables associated with the project.

### Expansion of the National Habitattitude Campaign to the Outer Main Hawaiian Islands

Sara Pelleteri, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, sought
WRP funding to expand the national Habitattitude campaign to the outer
main Hawaiian Islands. Challenges to implementing a statewide program
are isolation of the seven outer islands from each other and from Oahu,
large distances between or a lack of obvious drop-off sites (on some
islands), and until recently, a greater focus on terrestrial invaders.
She recounted an invasion of giant salvinia (*Salvinia molesta*) in Lake
Wilson in 2001, likely introduced as an aquarium release. Invasions have
also included marine fish.

Hawaii's AIS management plan, published in September 2003, includes
several key strategies and tasks related to the pet industry. Several
actions are underway to address these strategies, including school
presentations and brochure/flyer development. With WRP funding, the
department hopes to prevent introductions of new aquatic species through
educating the public and targeted user groups, increasing the number of
repositories where people can drop off fish, and building bridges to
industry groups in Hawaii for possible future partnerships. Sara
discussed the total budget of nearly \$24,000 and the specific request
of nearly \$14,000, most of which would go for personnel and travel. The
issue of an evaluation mechanism was raised during follow-up discussion.

### Regional surveys and outreach for nonindigenous burrowing isopod

Catherine de Rivera, PSU, requested funds to conduct regional surveys
and outreach for the nonindigenous burrowing isopod *S. quoianum*, the
same species that Jeff Crooks talked about previously. Quoting Jeff, she
said this isopod is the "most underappreciated cause of wetland loss."
Objectives of the study are to gather ecological information crucial for
management (distribution, impacts, and restrictive factors) and create
an educational website with management recommendations for this and
other ANS.

She summarized field survey methods, including surveying wood, marshes,
and docks at 7 to 35 sites in several bays in California, Oregon,
Washington, and British Columbia. Investigators will document several
environmental variables in areas with and without the isopod, including
substrate, erosion, temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen, in
addition to conducting lab experiments on tolerances. The website will
provide information about the isopod and 10 other ANS (taxonomy,
identification, ecology, ranges, vectors, damage, and management
recommendations), as well as allowing users to upload sightings and
create management reports. Catherine shared the projected budget
(\$14,658) and its components. She believed that they could achieve a
considerable amount with a small amount of money because the student
slated to lead the effort, Tim Davidson, is already an expert on the
species (although he has not yet agreed to continue his graduate studies
at PSU). In addition, Jeff's work south of Point Conception can help
inform this effort north of that location.

### ANS Risk Assessment for the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Eileen Ryce spoke on behalf of Mary Maj, Yellowstone Coordinating
Committee, requesting \$15,000 for an ANS risk assessment for the
Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). This is a unique area for many
reasons: it crosses three states and includes two national parks and
numerous national forests. It is also a destination hot spot, drawing
people from around the world. The various jurisdictions have created a
"logistical nightmare," and part of the proposal is to coordinate their
separate activities. Montana has the most developed ANS plan so the
Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has agreed to help with the major
components. Most of the information needed for the risk assessment
already exists. Objectives of the assessment include identifying ANS
with high potential to invade the GYE in the next five years, conducting
pathway analysis and determining risk potential, and developing
management recommendations for the GYE region. The goal is not to
develop a regional ANS management plan. Tina mentioned that Joe
Starinchak, USFWS, and Bob Wiltshire, Federation of Fly Fishers, have
developed a program to target industry for help with outreach to their
publics. A workshop will be conducted at the end of the month in Jackson
Hole, WY.

## Voting on Proposals

Following presentations, WRP members discussed merits of the various
proposals and the process for voting on them. Two projects were chosen
for full funding: expansion of Habitattitude to the outer main Hawaiian
Islands and the isopod surveys and outreach. Members further requested
that an evaluation component be added to the Hawaii project and that the
proposed lead investigator for the isopod project be confirmed. The
remaining \$1,500 will be split between the two projects. In addition,
Tina agreed to talk with Bob McMahon about submitting his proposal for
funding through the 100th Meridian Initiative.

## MRBP Risk Assessment Workshop

The Mississippi River Basin Panel (MRBP) is sponsoring a risk assessment
workshop similar to one held in Tampa, FL, last year. This workshop, to
be held in January in Kansas City, MO, will provide additional
information and exercises. Tina will forward information to members.

## Rapid Response Theme of ANSTF Meeting

The first day of the November ANSTF meeting will be dedicated to rapid
response. The MRBP asked its members about any rapid response
experiences they had had and whether those experiences had worked. Kevin
and Tina liked the idea of presenting something to the ANSTF that would
address the WRP perspective. Several people volunteered to participate
in conference calls (led by Tina) to that end: John Chapman, Tony
Montgomery, Susan Ellis, Stephen Phillips, Paul Heimowitz, John
Wullschleger, Eileen Ryce, and Larry Riley. Tina will then forward
results to Scott Newsham to incorporate into the ANSTF agenda.

## 2007 Annual WRP Meeting

The next annual meeting of the WRP was set for Hawaii in mid-September.
An ad hoc planning committee will be created to plan that meeting.

# ANS Task Force

Scott Newsham has been traveling to regional panel meetings and updating
their membership on the ANSTF and his role. He provided information
about his background, including 23 years with the U.S. Coast Guard (5 as
ANS/ballast water program manager) and his more recent experience
driving a school bus in his children's district and now serving on the
Alexandria School Board. He was hired in September 2005 as the first
full-time ANSTF Executive Secretary, with the expectation that he could
help the ANSTF realize its potential. Housed within the USFWS, the
Executive Secretary supports the ANSTF, regional panels, and committees
and keeps things moving administratively between meetings. He
particularly hopes to facilitate what the regional panels and states are
trying to accomplish by increasing open communications at all levels.

Scott also summarized tasks on which he and the ANSTF are currently
focused. The strategic plan is being revised to include measurable
goals. In addition, he is developing a process for an annual report to
Congress to provide a picture of what's happening nationally to address
ANS and challenges to those efforts. Scott encouraged the WRP to use the
annual report as a vehicle for raising awareness and making
recommendations to the ANSTF rather than viewing it as "another annual
report to file."

The format of the semiannual ANSTF meetings has changed to include
regional panel heads at the table with other ANSTF members and to
accommodate one day of discussion focused on a theme and fewer agenda
items with more time for discussion and networking. Panel heads are also
meeting the day before the ANSTF\'s November meeting to discuss issues
that should be brought before the full Task Force.

Scott mentioned the static funding for implementation of approved state
management plans, despite more plans being developed and approved.
Funding was \$1.075 million for the past two years and is unlikely to
change. The ANSTF agreed at its May 2006 meeting to distribute funds
equally among plans. He added that two draft control and management
plans (Asian carp and New Zealand mudsnail) are available for public
comment. The ANSTF approved these two plans at the May 2006 meeting, and
they should be finalized in early 2007.

He reiterated that the ANSTF provides the mechanism and venue to make
needs known. If the ANSTF is to be effective, regional panels,
committees, and others need to speak up about those needs. The ANSTF may
not be able to solve all problems, but effective communication will give
those at the federal level increased awareness of what state and
regional priorities are. Recommendations are key and can be sent to the
ANSTF at any time.

# Eradication Efforts

Kevin introduced a panel on regional eradication efforts, two in
freshwater and two in marine environments.

## Geographical Eradication of an Alien Octocoral in Hawaii

Tony Montgomery talked about an ongoing project to eradicate an alien
octocoral, snowflake coral (*Carijoa riisea*) on Kauai. Its
characteristics have enabled it to become widespread throughout the main
Hawaiian Islands, with the possible exception of Kauai. Sightings there
have been limited; Kauai has a large, healthy black coral population;
and Port Allen provides a perfect study site. Port Allen has a heavy
infestation with three lighter infestations nearby. Investigators have
been trying a smothering technique to eradicate snowflake coral. The
approach includes wrapping pilings with plastic and securing with tape,
completing all pilings before moving to the next phase, and finally
removing the plastic. The smothering treatment works by cutting off
oxygen and water flow. It has proven to be very effective at killing
everything on the pilings. Bacterial growth returns after about a month.
The project also includes outreach to local divers and dive charters for
*Carijoa* sightings, as well as surveys and eradication of isolated
populations in other locations (using smothering techniques and a hot
water gun developed for treatment of *Undaria*). Tony showed photographs
of infested and wrapped pilings, the plastic and tape used, pilings at
different points in treatment, sloppy or ripped treatments, bycatches of
coral and fish, fouling, and diver safety. Wrapping the pilings involves
various depths, and some divers have injured their ears due to the
pressure changes.

## Zebra Mussel Eradication in a Virginia Quarry

Brian Watson, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, offered
what he called a "small ray of hope" regarding eradication. He was
involved in the first successful eradication of zebra mussels in a water
body. Milbrook Quarry in northern Virginia was closed in the early 1960s
and has been used for dive-shop operations. Zebra mussels, probably
introduced intentionally, were first found there in 2002. Because the
quarry is adjacent to a river called Broad Run, transport of veligers
through flooding or other means was a concern. In addition, two
downstream reservoirs supply water for over 2 million people.

An ad hoc workgroup was convened, which included state and federal
agencies and local organizations. Some regulatory obstacles prevented
surveying in the quarry, but a 2003 act enabled the state agencies to
sign waivers so that assessments could begin. Bathymetry work was also
done. The group reconvened in July 2003, and despite some funding
challenges, awarded a contract in 2005 to use potassium carbonate
(potash) in the quarry. The USEPA approved its use in January 2006, and
the eradication project was finally underway. Brian showed photographs
of the equipment and described the treatment process. The target
concentration was reached in the third week of treatment. Because potash
paralyzes, biologists conducted a small mortality study, with a control
and recovery period, to ensure that the method would work.

Post-treatment they took underwater video and observed dead mussels,
caddisflies, and Asian clams (*Corbicula fluminea*) at the bottom of the
quarry. Levels were too low to kill fish. Potassium concentrations were
checked recently, and levels were still at 100 parts per million,
although spikes were observed at depths. Likely, potassium is being
released by the dead mussels on the bottom. Levels may be elevated for
up to 30 years, so no new populations can become established. Brian
summarized that it took only 3.5 weeks for eradication but 3 years to
get to that point. Funding the eradication project was also challenging
and is an issue to address. Divers should also be considered a method of
introduction.

## Spartina in Willapa Bay

Kyle Murphy, Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA), spoke
about a *Spartina* hybrid in Puget Sound. Although the nonnative
*Spartina alterniflora* (smooth cordgrass) was introduced in the late
1800s, it has only become invasive in the last 20 years. In 2003, this
species was at the height of its infestation in Willapa Bay, a huge
shellfish-producing area midway along the Washington coast. Large-scale,
multipartner eradication began at that time. Partners involved include
the WSDA, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of
Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, USFWS, Pacific County,
Washington State University, University of Washington, and Shoalwater
Bay Tribe. The herbicide glyphosate (Rodeo), used since 1994, has been
ineffective on large infestations. Another herbicide (imazapyr) took 10
years to get registered for aquatic use but was approved for use in
2004.

In 2005, they treated 5,000 solid acres, eradicating 3,500 solid acres.
Some infestations were left untreated. In 2006, they treated all areas
of the bay, including the entire Long Beach Peninsula. Only 3 of over
350 landowners refused to approve use of the herbicide on their
shorefronts, but 2 of these allowed mechanical control. Kyle was still
receiving information about the efficacy of 2006 treatments, but he was
optimistic. The new herbicide appears to be effective: only scattered
patches remain. Also effective were the strong partnerships that the
agency built with others.

Kyle showed photographs of reduced *Spartina* infestations following
treatment. Time-lapse photography has allowed them to compare treated
and untreated areas. In these comparisons, researchers observed distinct
shorebird and water fowl use of infested and uninfested areas.
Restoration efforts have begun, and Kyle commented on the potential for
research on returning birds and invertebrates. They are also looking at
developing a program that includes more oyster-grower involvement.

## Hydrilla Eradication in Washington

Kathy Hamel, Washington Department of Ecology, talked about eradication
efforts for hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil in Washington. Although
eradication may not always be feasible, she believed it was possible in
smaller water bodies with early detection and rapid response,
appropriate tools and funding, and political will. She gave examples of
eradication or near eradication of watermilfoil. Of 45 lakes for which
groups adopted eradication goals, 7 are now free of the invasive, and
the others have minimal amounts that don't interfere with beneficial
uses. She described the infestation and eradication efforts for Long
Lake. After 15 years of intensive management, there is still an
extremely small amount of milfoil in the lake. In 2005 only four pounds
wet weight of milfoil was removed by divers from the lake.

Hydrilla (*Hydrilla verticillata*) is considered one of the worst
aquatic weeds because of its multiple reproduction strategies. The only
infestation in the Pacific Northwest was in the interconnected Pipe and
Lucerne lakes outside Seattle. King County and the state took action
immediately, identifying and assessing the infestation and beginning
treatment with fluridone. In 2001, the court ruled that no herbicides
could be applied without National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permits, but diver hand-pulling efforts continued. After a small
section of healthy hydrilla was found, aquathol was used, and King
County took over management of the project, completing the necessary
training to become licensed applicators of fluridone. Divers also
conduct periodic surveys throughout the two lakes. One more survey is
planned for this year. If no hydrilla is found, then the countdown for
eradication will begin.

# Federal Register Notice Regarding Two Asian Carps

Erin Williams, USFWS, informed participants that a notice had been
published in the Federal Register requesting information on the
largescale silver carp (*Hypophthalmichthys harmandi*) and silver carp
(*Hypophthalmichthys molitrix*), especially information addressing nine
questions. Information will help the USFWS make a final determination as
to whether these species should be listed as injurious wildlife species
under the Lacey Act. If so, importation and interstate transport will be
prohibited. The comment period will be open until November 6, 2006.
Bighead carp (*Hypophthalmichthys nobilis*) will be addressed through a
separate evaluation. The USFWS is working on the final determination for
black carp (*Mylopharyngodon piceus*).

# Griffen's Curse: Parasites in Ballast Water

John Chapman informed people of a parasitic marine invader with huge
economic and conservation implications that has "slipped in under the
radar." Invasions of such "uncharismatic" species further complicate
rapid response since they often arrive and establish unnoticed.
Moreover, this is one of the very first known invaders of the open
ocean.

John reported on the ecology and natural history of the bopyrid isopod
parasite, *Orthione griffenis*, a species first described in 2004 that
is now in all remaining eastern Pacific populations of the native
estuary mud shrimp, *Upogebia pugettensis*. He organized high school
students to survey several Oregon estuaries and additionally searched in
Washington and California estuaries to find very high infestations in
every mud shrimp population examined. Mud shrimp are dominant organisms
in eastern Pacific estuary geomorphology and trophic dynamics. Impacts
to the mud shrimp include reduced host energy reserves, castration and
feminization, and in poor conditions, population extinctions.

The parasite's life cycle is the same as for other bopyrid isopods, with
at least three open-ocean pelagic life stages. Little is known about the
open-ocean pelagic stages, including the stage that attaches to a marine
copepod. The species was likely introduced to North America as one of
these \"larval\" stages in discharged ballast water arriving from Asia.

John displayed graphs illustrating mud shrimp growth alterations and the
extinction of one population with increasing infestations of this new
parasite. *Orthione* could improve conditions for some species of fish
but not for those desired by humans. In addition, ghost shrimp, a pest
for oyster growers, appear to benefit from the invader by increasing
their numbers where the mud shrimp decline. John also showed photographs
of affected mud flats in Yaquina Bay where the mud shrimp appears to
have recently gone extinct. If mud shrimp occurred in San Francisco Bay
historically, an unknown invader such as this one may have eradicated it
since none occur there now.

John reiterated unknowns about this species, its impacts to the
ecosystem, and likely indications of poorly known and underestimated
impacts of introduced species in general. Despite the virtual
improbability that an organism with such specific needs could become
established elsewhere, *Orthione* did, and other uncharismatic organisms
may as well. A weakness of present rapid responses is that they
generally focus on well-known species.

# 100th Meridian Website

David Britton, USFWS, demonstrated two new features of the 100th
Meridian Initiative website that are designed to help law enforcement
officials: a database of relevant laws for western states and a
quarantine time estimator. These two features are based on assumptions
that these officials may be more likely to act if they know their
authority and actions to take if they find zebra mussels on a boat or
trailer. The database has a graphical interface and provides laws for
each state, a summary and PDF of each, and links to more information.
The quarantine time estimator considers temperature and humidity by
location and month to estimate a recommended quarantine time for a
boat/trailer. David demonstrated use of both features.

He also discussed and demonstrated a staffed hotline that will
facilitate prompt preventative action in cases of impending potential
ANS introduction. An existing hotline (1-877-STOPANS) records messages
and is more appropriate for early detection/rapid response, not
prevention. This system will augment the existing hotline. David and Bob
Pitman, USFWS, are currently the only people to whom messages are
routed, but he anticipated a number of trained responders across the
nation. He and Bob compared contract services and chose the one that
best met their needs without being overly expensive. He invited feedback
on this project.

# Wrap Up

Tina invited participation on a small workgroup to address the
biological supply house issue. Paul Heimowitz agreed to chair it. Those
interested included Pam Meacham, Kevin Anderson, Jeff Herod, and Joan
Cabreza. Tina will email others asking if they're interested as well.
She thanked the Planning Committee, meeting organizers, Native American
trainers, and meeting support.