New Mexico 

Aquatic Invasive Species 

Management Plan

Prepared by: 

New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species 

Advisory Council 

October 2008 
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

The New Mexico State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan was created by the 

New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council. Numerous Federal, State, 

Tribal, NGOs, organizations, and individuals assisted with development of this plan. We 

thank all those who contributed to the planning process. In particular, we acknowledge 

Reese Brand Phillips, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, who wrote the 

initial draft. The Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force provided preliminary comment 

and guidance on an earlier draft. 

Special thanks are justly afforded to the following individuals who offered support 

throughout all phases of plan development (in alphabetical order): Aron Balock, Dave 

Britton, Stephanie Carman, Steve Cary, Mike Childs, Ken Cunningham, Randy Floyd, 

Susan George, Ron Gilworth, Jake Grandy, Bill Graves, Greg Gustina, Richard Hanson, 

Chuck Hayes, Renae Held, Mark Holland, Vincent Homer, Ondrea Hummel, Kelly 

Jackson, Tony Jacobson, Bob Jenks, Kris Johnson, Lisa Kirkpatrick, Brian Lang, Marcy 

Leavitt, Edward Martinez, Greg McReynolds, Vicki Milano, Marcus Miller, David 

Moore, Mark Murphy, Yasmeen Najmi, Pete Padilla, Leland Pierce, Bob Pitman, Bettina 

Proctor, Reese Brand Phillips, Kevin Reilly, Mike Rivera, Michael Robinson, James 

Sandoval, Emile Sawyer, Luke Shelby, John Sherman, Dave Simon, Robert Sivinski, 

Michael Sloane, Todd Stevenson, Dick Thompson, Bruce Thompson, Amy Unthank, 

Callie Vanderbilt, Toby Velasquez, Jim Wanstall, Peter Wilkinson, and Matthew 

Wunder. 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS............................................................................................... iii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................... iv 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................1 

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................3 

INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................5 

PROCESS AND PARTICIPATION ...................................................................................8 

EXISTING AUTHORITIES AND PROGRAMS...............................................................9 

 Federal.............................................................................................................................9 

 Regional ........................................................................................................................11 

 Tribal.............................................................................................................................12 

 State...............................................................................................................................12 

PROBLEM DEFINITION AND RANKING....................................................................17 

AIS Priority Classes...........................................................................................................18 

 Priority Class 1..............................................................................................................18 

 Priority Class 2..............................................................................................................24 

 Priority Class 3..............................................................................................................26 

 Priority Class 4..............................................................................................................29 

AIS MANAGEMENT STRATEGY .................................................................................31 

 Objective 1: Coordinate and implement a comprehensive AIS management plan......32 

 Objective 2: Prevent the introduction of AIS into New Mexico..................................35 

 Objective 3: Detect, monitor, and eradicate pioneering AIS .......................................38 

 Objective 4: Where feasible, control and eradicate established AIS that have 

significant impacts ..................................................................................41 

 Objective 5: Increase and disseminate knowledge of AIS in New Mexico through 

compiling data and conducting research.................................................42 

 Objective 6: Inform the public, policy makers, natural resource workers, private 

industry, and user groups about the risks and impacts of AIS................44 

IMPLEMENTATION TABLE..........................................................................................47 

PROGRAM MONITORING AND IMPLEMENTATION...............................................54 

GLOSSARY ......................................................................................................................55 

LITERATURE CITED ......................................................................................................57 

APPENDICES ...................................................................................................................63

 Appendix A: List of Priority AIS for New Mexico .......................................................63 

 Appendix B: List of AIS reported from New Mexico ...................................................64 

 Appendix C: Section 1204 of the National Invasive Species Act, 1996 .......................67 

 Appendix D: Executive Order 13112 ............................................................................69 

 Appendix E: Federal Laws Addressing AIS in New Mexico........................................74 

 Appendix F: New Mexico State Laws Addressing AIS ................................................80 

 Appendix G: WGA Policy Resolution 04-12 .................................................................84 

 Appendix H: New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds, 2000-2001..88 

 Appendix I: Public Comment .....................................................................................102 
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

Aquatic invasive (nuisance) species (AIS) are a growing concern in New Mexico. 

Having already negatively impacted several native species and humans, AIS are poised to 

cause further ecologic, economic, and human health problems. More than 100 species 

have been recorded in New Mexico and more are expected to invade. Various agencies 

and organizations are currently addressing AIS on a “single-species” basis. These efforts, 

however, are not coordinated and are woefully inadequate in scope and degree to address 

the risks AIS pose to the public, our economy, and natural ecosystems. Recognizing that 

a coordinated statewide approach is needed, the involved agencies and organizations 

collectively propose the New Mexico State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan 

(NMPlan) as a necessary first step towards establishing a workable framework to 

successfully confront present and future AIS problems in the State. 

The federal Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990, 

amended by the National Invasive Species Act of 1996, calls for the development of state 

and regional management plans to control AIS. Once a state plan is approved by the 

national Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force and the Governor, state agencies are 

eligible to receive federal matching funds for activities specified in the management plan. 

The NMPlan is based on guidance provided by the New Mexico Aquatic Invasive 

Species Advisory Council, the national ANS Task Force, and approved state plans. 

The goal of the NMPlan: That the potentially harmful ecologic, economic, and social 

impacts resulting from the presence of AIS in New Mexico are precluded or minimized 

through prevention and management of introduction, population growth, and dispersal 

into, within, and from New Mexico. 

To achieve this goal the following actions are proposed: 

• establish a New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council (AISAC); 

• secure an executive order from the Governor requiring full participation of involved 

state agencies on the AISAC; 

• secure funds appropriated by the state legislature to support an AIS program, 

including the expansion of law enforcement authority; 

• create a state-level Invasive Species Coordinator position; 

• establish a database for cataloging AIS in the state; 

• initiate a system to rank AIS based on threat level; 

• develop a monitoring system for documenting the presence and distribution of AIS in 

the state; 

• adopt a list of AIS prohibited from entry into the state; 

• prevent the movement of AIS into, within, and out of the state; 

• minimize the impact of established AIS on native biota, ecosystems, and the public; 
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• devise a rapid-response system for detecting, investigating, and eradicating newly 

reported AIS or populations; 

• organize educational and outreach efforts to increase public awareness of AIS; 

• establish a system to coordinate AIS management efforts between state, federal, 

tribal, regional, and local agencies, and private organizations; and 

• outline research goals and mechanisms to fund management efforts. 

The NMplan provides background information on environmental and economic impacts 

posed by AIS, describes pathways of entry into the state, and identifies existing 

regulatory authorities and programs that address invasive species at state, regional, and 

national levels. This plan includes a problem definition and ranking system that 

identifies AIS priority classes. Ranking AIS based on threat level not only facilitates 

prevention of introductions and mitigation of impacts, it also enables agencies to direct 

management strategies and financial resources more efficiently. 

The AIS Management Strategy section lists six objectives wherein problems, current 

agency activities, and gaps in these authorities are addressed by identifying strategies and 

actions needed to reduce or eliminate the threats and effects of AIS in New Mexico. 

These tasks are summarized in the Implementation Table which designates the lead 

entities and a timetable for completing individual actions. 

The strategies outlined in the NMPlan will generate actions to achieve desired future 

conditions and outcomes. A necessary step in the implementation of this plan will be 

program monitoring and evaluation of performance indicators referable to the goal and 

objectives of the plan. To support and inform implementation of this plan, the New 

Mexico AISAC will adopt the philosophy of adaptive management in which monitoring 

and evaluation are employed to measure progress toward achieving the goal, to assess the 

efficacy of strategies to meet the stated objectives, and to maintain awareness of and 

adapt to changing information or conditions. Program monitoring and evaluation will 

require oversight, evaluation, and reporting. 
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LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 

Acronyms and abbreviations used for the agencies, organizations, and positions 

implementing AIS strategies and actions on the following pages. 

AIS – Aquatic invasive species 

AISAC – Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council (New Mexico) 

ANS – Aquatic Nuisance Species 

ANSTF – Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force 

APHIS – Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service 

BLM – Bureau of Land Management 

BoR – Bureau of Reclamation 

BP – U.S. Department of Immigration and Naturalization, Border Patrol 

CoE – Army Corps of Engineers 

Coord – Invasive Species Coordinator 

DoA – U.S. Department of Agriculture 

DoD – U.S. Department of Defense 

DoI – U.S. Department of the Interior 

DoT – U.S. Department of Transportation 

EMNRD – Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department (State Parks) 

EPA – Environmental Protection Agency 

Fed – All federal agencies 

Gov – Governor 

ISC – Interstate Stream Commission 

LE – law enforcement 

Leg – New Mexico Legislature 

NANPCA – Non-indigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act 

NISA – National Invasive Species Act 

NMBA – New Mexico Border Authority 

NMDA – New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

NMDGF – New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

NMDH – New Mexico Department of Health 

NMDT – New Mexico Department of Tourism 

NMDOT – New Mexico Department of Transportation 

NMED – New Mexico Environment Department 

NMEDD – New Mexico Economic Development Department 

NMPED – New Mexico Public Education Department 

NMFS – National Marine Fisheries Service 

NMPlan – New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan 

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

NZMS – New Zealand mud snail 

OSE – Office of State Engineer 

Private – Private businesses, citizens, citizen groups, etc. 

QM – quagga mussel 

State – All state agencies 

Tribes – All Native American Indian Tribes 
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University – University of New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Highlands 

University 

USCG – U.S. Coast Guard 

USFWS – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

USFS – U.S. Forest Service 

USGS – U.S. Geological Survey 

USNPS – U.S. National Park Service 

WGA – Western Governor’s Association 

WMD – water management districts 

WNV - West Nile Virus 

WRP – Western Regional Panel 

ZM – zebra mussel 
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INTRODUCTION 

Introduction of nonnative species to the United States is a growing problem, reported to 

cost the nation $137 billion annually (Pimentel et al. 2000, Lodge et al. 2006). When 

transplanted outside their native range, nonnative species are often freed from the 

controlling effects of competitors, predators and pathogens, resulting in rapid population 

increase and range expansion. Nonnative aquatic invasive species (AIS) can be 

especially detrimental due to the importance of the nation’s aquatic and hydrologic 

resources. As their populations expand, AIS often impede municipal and industrial water 

systems, can cause public health problems, displace native species, degrade ecosystems, 

and reduce recreational and commercial fishing opportunities. To date, AIS have caused 

significant ecological and socio-economic problems throughout North America. Costs 

from damage and controlling nonnative fish alone reach $5.4 billion per year and the cost 

of controlling aquatic plants ranges from $2,000 to $6,000/hectare/year (Pimentel 2003). 

Addressing the issue of AIS is particularly difficult with increasing globalization, the 

great extent of our coastal areas, and the inherent connectivity of hydrologic units. 

Although awareness of AIS is increasing, aquatic invaders continue to be introduced into 

the United States and into new habitats at an alarming rate. 

In 1990, the Non-indigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act (NANPCA) 

was passed to address AIS problems in the United States. While programs created by this 

legislation were initially aimed at problems in the Great Lakes region, passage of the 

National Invasive Species Act (NISA) in 1996 established a national goal of preventing 

new introductions and limiting the dispersal of existing AIS in the United States. Under 

section 1204 of NISA, states are authorized to present a comprehensive management plan 

to the federal ANS Task Force for approval. These state plans must identify those areas 

or activities within the state, for which technical, enforcement, or financial assistance is 

needed to eliminate or reduce the environmental, public health, and safety risks 

associated with ANS. Plan approval allows the state to receive up to a 75 percent federal 

cost share to implement a plan. The New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management 

Plan (NMPlan) was developed to meet the requirements of NISA, following guidelines 

established by the federal ANS Task Force (2005) and reliance upon other state plans.

The impacts of AIS to New Mexico have not been as visible compared to other states, 

such as in Florida or those in the Great Lakes Region, where invaders like water hyacinth 

and the zebra mussel, respectively, require hundreds of millions of dollars annually for 

control and mitigation. Relative to neighboring states of Arizona, Colorado and Texas, 

New Mexico has experienced fewer introductions of ANS (USGS 2005a), which places 

our state in an opportune situation to act before problems become too expensive, or 

ecological damage becomes too severe, to manage effectively. However, more than 100 

AIS occur in New Mexico (see Appendix B) and many are beginning to seriously impact 

wildlife. Many of the AIS now established are the result of intentional efforts from bait 

bucket introductions and sport fisheries management, commerce (horticultural practices), 

and release of aquarium pets and plants. Restrictions now prohibit or impede further 

unauthorized introductions; however, the threat of accidental introductions continues to 

grow. Many AIS, not currently in New Mexico, occur in neighboring states (USGS 
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2005a). Their arrival is likely either by natural expansion via shared drainages or by the 

ever-increasing movement of recreationists and their equipment. As well, New Mexico’s 

growing aquaculture trade provides another avenue of introduction of AIS. Perhaps more 

subtle is the threat from the global aquarium trade and an increased interest in the 

aquacultural industry for food production (tilapia, marine shrimp, Australian crayfish). 

This situation is in turn complicated by the abundance of suitable aquatic habitat created 

through the impoundment of rivers and New Mexico’s warm climate, where escapees, 

whether intentional or not, may establish viable populations. 

As a state in the arid Southwest, New Mexico’s approximately 5,948 miles of perennial 

streams and estimated 482,000 acres of wetlands (CRWUA 2005) are an extremely 

valuable resource (Figure 1). They provide habitat for wildlife, enrich the lives of the 

public, and generate income through recreation, agriculture and industry. Despite its 

aridity, New Mexico has a rich and unique aquatic biodiversity. Sixty-six species of 

native fish occur in the state, many of them endemic (Carlson and Muth 1989). However, 

nonnative fish (75 species) now outnumber native species and some of these nonnatives 

can negatively affect native populations, contributing to their decline, with 30% of native 

fish species threatened (Warren and Burr 1994, Boydstun et al. 1995). Several nonvertebrate AIS also threaten New Mexico fisheries. Whirling disease (Myxobolus 

cerebralis), first recorded in New Mexico in 1998, can infect stocked rainbow trout and 

native cutthroats, devastating fisheries. Golden alga (Prymnesium parvum), responsible 

for extensive fish kills in the lower Pecos River since 1988, was recently reported (2005) 

in private ponds near Eunice and Roswell. 

Information from the Biota Information System of New Mexico (BISON-M) indicates 

that of 829 taxa of vertebrates known to reliably occur in New Mexico, 627 (76%) utilize 

aquatic, semi-aquatic or riparian habitats during some or all of their life stages. 

Introduction, establishment, and stocking of nonnative species have already impacted 19 

taxa of wildlife listed as Threatened or Endangered under the New Mexico Wildlife 

Conservation Act. One federally Threatened species, the Chiricahua leopard frog (Rana 

chiricahuensis) has been adversely affected by several nonnative aquatic species. 

The exotic Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) is now found in many surface waters 

throughout the state. Nonnative freshwater mussels, the giant floater (Pyganodon 

grandis) and paper pondshell (Utterbackia imbecillis), are reported from impoundments 

(Canadian River, lower Pecos River) and in the middle Rio Grande mainstem, 

respectively. These established populations are likely the result of bait bucket 

introductions and underscore concerns that zebra mussels (ZM) and quagga mussels 

(QM) (Dreissena polymorpha and D. bugensis, respectively), now found in adjacent 

Arizona (QM) and Colorado (ZM), may likely spread by similar pathways to surface 

waters of New Mexico, resulting in detrimental economic and ecological impacts. 

AIS, such as Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and Brazilian waterweed 

(Egeria densa), both present in New Mexico, have the potential to impact the state on 

multiple levels. These two plants grow very rapidly and can reach high densities. In one 

area of North Carolina, when first reported Eurasian watermilfoil covered approximately 
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Figure 1. Surface waters and major transportation routes in New Mexico.
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200 to 400 hectares. A year later, 26,800 hectares were infested. These invasive plants 

can displace native plants, reduce waterfowl populations, and decrease levels of dissolved 

oxygen in waterbodies, resulting in fish die-offs (Frodge et al. 1995). New Mexico’s 

extensive network of irrigation systems is particularly threatened by AIS. Eurasian 

watermilfoil and Brazilian waterweed impede water flow and clog pumps and intake 

pipes. In Washington state, about $1 million is spent annually to control Eurasian 

watermilfoil. In New Mexico, where water resources are scarce and agriculture is 

heavily dependent on irrigation, economic impacts from these types of AIS could be 

costly. Invasive aquatic plants can slow water movement, creating stagnant pools that are 

ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This potentially compounds the impact from 

another introduced species, West Nile Virus (WNV), a mosquito-vectored pathogen. 

First recorded in the state in 2002, WNV has been recorded in 30 of 33 counties. In 

2003, 209 human cases were reported, with 4 deaths in 2004. Additionally, horses and 

several species of wildlife are at risk from WNV. Economically, costs of WNV can be 

high. In 2002, 329 cases were reported in Louisiana with an estimated cost of $20.1 

million (Zohrabian 2004). 

The few species described above and their impacts offer a glimpse of the present and 

future problem posed by AIS in the state, underpinning the need to develop a 

comprehensive plan to address AIS related issues. Currently, efforts focused on 

managing the impacts of AIS in New Mexico are conducted by only a few federal, state, 

and local agencies. However, these efforts are not sufficiently coordinated or funded to 

prevent further introductions or additional damage to economic and environmental 

resources from the impacts of AIS already present. The NMPlan provides a framework 

for coordinating efforts to prevent additional introductions, to contain AIS already 

present, and to manage AIS in New Mexico. The NMPlan will be reviewed annually to 

incorporate advances in research and updated information on the distribution of AIS. 

PROCESS AND PARTICIPATION 

Addressing the problem of AIS in New Mexico will entail a large-scale and long-term 

effort, requiring funding and coordination from multiple agencies, organizations, and 

individuals (stakeholders). As the agency coordinating this strategic planning effort, the 

NMDGF prepared a preliminary draft plan and requested broad-based stakeholder 

participation from representatives of State and Federal agencies, Tribes, municipalities, 

water management districts, NGOs, and the private sector to serve on the New Mexico 

Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council (AISAC). The AISAC revised the 

preliminary draft plan and subsequently solicited public comment on the draft plan during 

a 30-day review period (see Appendix I, Public Comment). Management and financial 

responsibilities identified under the NMPlan (see AIS Management Strategy) are to be 

refined by all stakeholders as funding becomes available. The NMPlan is a viable first 

step towards identifying and integrating existing AIS activities, including the 
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development and implementation of new programs. Funding and future plan revisions 

will be necessary to achieve our goal. 

EXISTING AUTHORITIES AND PROGRAMS 

This section provides a brief discussion of nonnative species authorities and programs in 

New Mexico, as well as regional activities, federal law, and international agreements. 

The policies regarding nonnative species are controlled and enforced by a network of 

regulatory agencies and organizations. 

Federal

No single federal agency has clear authority over all aspects of AIS management, but 

many agencies have programs and responsibilities that address aspects of the problem, 

such as importation, interstate transport, exclusion, control, and eradication. Federal 

activities on AIS management are coordinated through the National Aquatic Nuisance 

Species Task Force (NANSTF). In February 1999, President Clinton signed Executive 

Order (EO) 13112, which requires all federal agencies to collaborate in developing a 

national invasive species management plan that will include terrestrial and aquatic 

species. A brief description of the President's Executive Order, the Nonindigenous 

Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act (NANPCA), and the National Invasive 

Species Act (NISA) is provided below. Additional information on NISA Section 1204 is 

provided in Appendix C. See Appendix D for details of EO 13112. Various federal laws 

relevant to AIS issues in New Mexico are described in Appendix E. 

Executive Order 13112 on Invasive Species 

President Clinton signed EO 13112 on Invasive Species (64 Fed. Reg. 6183, Feb. 8, 

1999), on February 3, 1999. The EO seeks to prevent the introduction of invasive 

species, provide for their control, and minimize their impacts through better coordination 

of federal agency efforts under a National Invasive Species Management Plan to be 

developed by an interagency Invasive Species Council. The Order directs all federal 

agencies to address invasive species concerns, as well as refrain from actions likely to 

increase invasive species problems. The National Invasive Species Management Plan 

was finalized on January 18, 2001. It can be found on the Council website at 

www.invasivespecies.gov. 

Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 (NANPCA; 

Title I of P. No.101-646, 16 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.) 

This Act established a federal program to prevent the introduction of, and to control the 

spread of, introduced ANS and the brown tree snake. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

(USFWS), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 

the Army Corps of Engineers (CoE), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA) share responsibilities for implementing this effort. They act 
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cooperatively as members of the national Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force 

(ANSTF). The purposes of NANPCA are: 

• to prevent unintentional introduction and dispersal of nonindigenous species into 

waters of the United States through ballast water management and other 

requirements; 

• to coordinate federally conducted, funded or authorized research, prevention control, 

information dissemination and other activities regarding the zebra mussel and other 

ANS; 

• to develop and carry out environmentally sound control methods to prevent, monitor 

and control unintentional introductions of nonindigenous species from pathways other 

than ballast water exchange; 

• to understand and minimize economic and ecological impacts of nonindigenous ANS 

that become established, including zebra/quagga mussels; and 

• to establish a program of research and technology development and assistance to 

States in the management and removal of zebra/quagga mussels. 

Under NANPCA, state governors are authorized to submit comprehensive management 

plans to the Task Force for approval that identify areas or activities for which technical 

and financial assistance is needed. Grants are authorized to states for implementing 

approved management plans, with a maximum federal share of 75% of the cost of each 

comprehensive management plan. The state (or private) contribution is 25% of total 

program costs. 

National Invasive Species Act (NISA; P. L. No.104-332) 

In 1996, the Congress reauthorized and amended NANPCA, creating NISA. The 

amended act addressed the need to expand efforts beyond ballast water and zebra 

mussels, and to address additional avenues of introduction and the variety of nonnative 

species associated with those pathways. As well, NISA established provisions to create 

additional regional panels around the country to interact with the ANS Task Force and 

provide regional and local recommendations, planning, and an infrastructure for action. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service programs 

The USFWS provides federal funding for implementation of state and regional ANS 

(AIS) management plans which have been approved by the ANS Task Force. One of the 

major USFWS efforts on AIS is the 100th Meridian Initiative. The goals of this Initiative 

are to 1) prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other AIS in the 100th meridian 

jurisdictions of the West and 2) monitor and control zebra mussels and other AIS if 

detected in these areas. These goals will be attained through the implementation of the 

following six components: 1) information and education, 2) voluntary boat inspections 

and boater surveys, 3) involvement of those who haul boats for commercial purposes, 4) 

monitoring, 5) rapid response, and 6) evaluation. 

This Initiative represents the first large-scale concerted effort, working with resource 

agencies (federal, state, provincial), tribal entities, potentially affected industries and 
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other interested parties, to begin addressing the pathway to prevent the spread of 

zebra/quagga mussels. The success of this Initiative depends on the commitment of these 

groups to combat the spread of this destructive invader. 

Based on a 2007 statewide risk assessment of water bodies in New Mexico, stakeholders 

(state and federal agencies, NGOs, water user groups) from New Mexico and Colorado 

formed the Rio Grande Basin Team under the 100th Meridian Initiative (more 

information: http://www.100thmeridian.org/RioGrandeRT.asp). The objectives of this 

team are to: define zebra mussel and quagga mussel threats to Rio Grande resources; 

prioritize prevention actions for high-risk waters and identify those actions which can be 

accomplished with existing resources; develop an outline for future collaborative work; 

and develop long-term strategies to prevent zebra mussel and quagga mussel introduction 

into the basin. 

The USFWS is an active participant on the New Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande 

Basin Team. 

 

Regional

Western Regional Panel (WRP) 

The WRP on ANS was formed under a provision in NISA. The initial, organizational 

meeting of the WRP was held in 1997. The WRP was formed to help limit the 

introduction, spread, and impacts of ANS into western North America. This panel 

includes representatives from federal, state and local agencies, including private, 

environmental, and commercial interests. 

The purposes of the WRP, as described in NISA, are to: 

• identify Western Region priorities for responding to ANS; 

• make recommendations to the federal ANS Task Force regarding an education, 

monitoring (including inspection), prevention, and control program to prevent the 

spread of the zebra/quagga mussels west of the l00th Meridian; 

• coordinate, where possible, other ANS program activities in the West not conducted 

pursuant to NISA; 

• develop an emergency response strategy for federal, state, and local entities for 

stemming new invasions of ANS in the region; 

• provide advice to public and private individuals and entities concerning methods of 

preventing and controlling ANS infestations; and 

• submit an annual report to the federal ANS Task Force describing activities within 

the western region related to ANS prevention, research and control. 
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Western Governor’s Association (WGA) 

The WGA was established in 1984 to address key policy and governance issues common 

to the 18 Western states, two territories and one commonwealth. In June of 1998, the 

association passed Resolution 98-018, Undesirable Aquatic and Terrestrial Species, for 

the purpose of developing and coordinating strategies and management actions to control 

and prevent the spread and introduction of undesirable species; to support the use of 

Integrated Pest Management concepts; to encourage broad-based partnerships; and to 

urge adequate support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health 

Inspection Service (APHIS). Resolution 98-018 was followed by Resolution 02-21, 

Undesirable Aquatic, Riparian, and Invasive Species, and most recently by Resolution 

04-12, Undesirable Aquatic, Riparian, and Invasive Species. The WGA has formed a 

working group of state and federal agencies, industry, non-governmental organizations 

and academia to develop Western strategies to limit the spread of these species. The 

entire Resolution 04-12 is in Appendix E. 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Pacific Division, Albuquerque District (CoE) 

The CoE is currently involved in more than 30 projects throughout the state. In other 

states, the CoE coordinates activities between federal, state, and local agencies and 

organizations working on AIS related projects. The CoE is an active participant on the 

New Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

 

Tribal 

There are 22 federally recognized Tribes in New Mexico. Tribal lands with reservoirs, 

lakes, rivers and streams represent watersheds that commonly cross state and tribal 

boundaries. A coherent strategy for AIS depends on addressing all waters of the region. 

However, federal reserved lands are subject to federal, not state law. Tribes are also 

empowered to develop Tribal laws under the Clean Water Act and other authorities. 

With the myriad of authorities and regulations that apply to waters of this region, it is of 

critical importance that there exists a well-coordinated strategy for AIS problems that 

commonly transcend jurisdictional boundaries. 

State

In New Mexico, state and local agencies can play a major role controlling the spread of 

nonnative species. States have authority to decide which species can be imported and/or 

released. However, the U.S. Constitution vests the power to regulate international and 

interstate commerce to Congress. Federal law may preempt state law, but states retain 

almost unlimited power to define which species are imported and/or released. Although 

many state agencies have some authority to regulate AIS, no centralized authority or 

management structure exists to coordinate AIS activities in New Mexico. This section 

describes the existing laws, regulations, and policies related to AIS that various state 

agencies have for managing AIS (also see Appendix F). 
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New Mexico Border Authority (NMBA) 

The New Mexico Border Authority oversees development and promotion of our 

International Ports of Entry located at Santa Teresa, Columbus, and Antelope Wells. The 

NMBA seeks to create partnerships with public and private stakeholders involved in 

international trade activities, travel (businesses, tourists), and dissemination of 

information related to regulations and procedures affecting leisure and commercial travel 

through New Mexico's ports of entry. 

New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) 

Agriculture and Environmental Services Division – This division of the NMDA, 

operating through various bureaus, administers pesticide use laws through product 

registration, applicator licensing, and inspections; directs pest detection surveys, 

quarantines, and regulates the sale of live plants and cut flowers; provides dairy farm and 

plant inspection permitting; regulates distribution of feed, seed, and fertilizer products 

through product registration and inspections; houses the state chemist and state seed 

laboratories. The NMDA is an active participant on the New Mexico AISAC. 

Bureau of Entomology and Nursery Industries: 

• The New Mexico Pest Control Act [76-6-1 to 76-6-39] provides the authority to carry 

out operations or measures to locate, suppress, control, eradicate, prevent or retard the 

spread of pests. "Pest" means any insect, disease or other organism of any character 

causing or capable of causing injury or damage to any plants or parts thereof or any 

processed, manufactured or other products of plants. This provision includes the 

authority to quarantine all or part of the state, to inspect areas suspected of infestation, 

and to abate the threat from actual or suspected infestations of pests. 

• The New Mexico Plant Protection Act [76-5-11 to 76-5-28] provides the authority for 

the state to inspect nurseries and florists to ensure stock is free from plant pests. 

"Plant pests" means any organisms injurious to plants and plant products which in the 

normal course of events could be transported with the plant, including but not limited 

to the phyla arthropoda, mollusca or nemathelminthes as well as weeds, fungi, 

bacteria, viruses or parasitic plants, which cause pathological or detrimental 

physiological conditions in plants. This provision also includes the authority to 

regulate the transport into the state and the sale and transport within the state to 

ensure plant stock is pest free. 

• The New Mexico Harmful Plant Act [76-7A-1 to 76-7A-11] provides the authority to 

prevent the introduction, spread or dissemination of a harmful plant in the state. 

"Harmful plant" means any plant, seeds or other parts of a plant the board declares by 

regulation to be a harmful plant. This provision includes the authority to quarantine 

all or part of the state, as well as any domestic livestock, captive wildlife or captive 

stray animals suspected of exposure to a harmful plant, to make inspections areas 

suspected of harboring harmful plants, and to abate the threat from harmful plants. 

Bureau of Feed, Seed, and Fertilizer: 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

14

• The New Mexico Commercial Feed Law [76-19-1 to 76-19-14] authorizes the state to 

establish limits on the amount of weed seeds in commercial feeds. "Commercial 

feed" means all materials which are distributed for use as feed or for mixing in feed 

for animals other than man, except: (1) unmixed or unprocessed whole seeds; or (2) 

unground hay, straw, stover, silage, cobs, husks and hulls when not mixed with other 

materials. This provision includes the authority to inspect and detain any commercial 

feeds not meeting labeled specifications. 

• The New Mexico Seed Law [76-10-11 to 76-10-22] authorizes the regulation of sale 

and transport of seeds into and within the state. Inclusive, is the authority to regulate 

labeling and allowable limits of noxious weed seeds. "Noxious weed seeds" includes 

prohibited noxious weed seeds and restricted noxious weed seeds. "Prohibited 

noxious weed seeds" are seeds of weeds which, when established, are highly 

destructive and are not controlled in this state by the cultural practices commonly 

used. "Restricted noxious weed seeds" are the seeds of weeds which are very 

objectionable in fields, lawns and gardens in this state and are very difficult to control 

by cultural practices commonly used. 

• The New Mexico Noxious Weed Act of 1963 [76-7-23 to 76-7-30] and the amended 

1978 New Mexico Noxious Weed Management Act, provide the authority to declare a 

weed as noxious. "Noxious weed" means any species of plant which is liable to be 

detrimental or destructive, and difficult to control or eradicate. Under the act, the 

sale, distribution or planting of a noxious weed into or within the state is illegal and 

penalties exist to prevent such. This includes the authority to inspect any facility or 

ground where noxious weed seeds are sold, stored, transported or planted. 

Bureau of Pesticide Management: 

• The New Mexico Pesticide Control Act [76-4-1 to 76-4-39] provides authority to 

regulate all pesticides and pesticide applicators, including aquatic pesticides. It also 

provides for training and education of pesticide applicators. The administrative rules 

of this Act require special training and management plan development for the use of 

aquatic herbicides. 

Agricultural Programs and Resources Division – This division of the NMDA is the 

agricultural liaison for the director/secretary and handles agricultural issues analyses, 

cooperative predatory and wild animal and rodent pest program, and supervises farm and 

range improvement fund activities, and the soil and water conservation program. 

• The New Mexico Livestock Code, Article 15 Predatory Animals and Rodent Pest [77-

15-1 to 77-15-5] authorizes the state to cooperate in the control of rodent pests. 

• The New Mexico Soil and Water Conservation District Act [73-20-25 to 73-20-48] 

recognizes the value of New Mexico’s water resources and authorizes their 

administration. Inclusive is the need to preserve the state’s waters to protect the 

health and welfare of the people of the state and to preserve and conserve its wildlife 

and natural resources. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

15

New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) 

The NM State Parks Division of EMNRD is responsible for administering and enforcing 

the state boating laws and regulations on all waters in the state. Other functions include 

waterways management planning, maintaining boating facilities for state parks, 

administering the state boating accident database, cooperating with the United States 

Coast Guard, and assisting other local, state and national agencies that also have water 

recreation management responsibilities. This Division does not have any policies directly 

related to the movement of AIS, nor does it have specific authority to prevent the 

introduction of AIS into Park or State waters. State Parks is an active member on the 

New Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) 

Various articles under New Mexico Statutes Annotated, Chapter 17, Game and Fish and 

Outdoor Recreation, regulate the importation of fish and game into the State and their 

movement within the State. The importation of any live animals, birds or fish into New 

Mexico, except domesticated animals or domesticated fowl or fish from government 

hatcheries, is subject to approval by the NMDGF under NMSA 17-3-32. Shipment of 

game animals, birds and fish to officers of other states is regulated under NMSA17-3-30. 

The taking of bait fish from State waters for the purpose of sale and the movement of bait 

fish within the state is regulated under NMSA17-3-27. NMDGF is signatory to the New 

Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds (see below). The NMDGF is an 

active participant on the New Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

 

New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) 

The basic authority for water quality management in New Mexico is provided through 

the State Water Quality Act [74-6-1]. This law establishes the Water Quality Control 

Commission, which is administratively attached to the NMED, and specifies its duties 

and powers. The duties and powers of the Commission include adoption of a 

comprehensive water quality management program, the development of a continuing 

planning process, the administration of loans and grants from the federal government, the 

adoption of water quality standards, and the adoption of regulations "to prevent or abate 

water pollution in the state or in any specific geographic area or watershed of the 

state...or for any class of waters." The NMED is an active participant on the New 

Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

Various sub-parts of the Standards for Interstate and Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 

NMAC] included components directly and indirectly applicable to AIS in New Mexico. 

Factors affecting growth of undesirable aquatic life [20.6.4.13 E] and the application of 

piscicides [20.6.4.13 F] are addressed. 

New Mexico Economic Development Department (NMEDD) 

The NMEDD focuses on growing economic-based businesses to foster a sustained rise in 

New Mexico’s production of goods and services. The NMEDD does not have any 

policies directly related to the economic impacts of AIS. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

16

New Mexico Department of Health (NMDH) 

The NMDH has the potential to cooperate on the management and control of AIS within 

New Mexico. Under State statutes, the NMDH has the authority to investigate, control 

and abate the causes of disease, especially epidemics, sources of mortality and other 

conditions of public health [24-1-3C] and to establish, maintain and enforce isolation and 

quarantine [24-1-3D]. 

New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) 

The mission of the NMDOT is to plan, build, and maintain a quality state-wide 

transportation network which will serve the social and economic interests of New 

Mexico’s citizens. NMDOT focuses on most modes of travel (transit, rail, aviation and 

highways), with a commitment to traffic safety, environmental protection, and complete 

planning, design and engineering services. NMDOT is signatory to the New Mexico 

Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds (see below). 

New Mexico Tourism Department (NMDT) 

The NMTD creates, promotes, and develops economic benefit to the state through a 

visitor industry that will benefit New Mexico economically, environmentally and 

culturally. The NMTD serves potential and current visitors by fulfilling requests for 

information, by offering statewide visitor information centers, and through the efforts of 

the marketing, advertising and media relations. The Department works with local 

communities to establish funding in regional advertising and cooperative marketing 

programs; and has a strong presence in volunteer activities statewide, from helping with 

non-profit organizations to its annual litter awareness campaign. The NMDT does not 

have any policies addressing AIS issues.

Interstate Stream Commission (ISC) 

The ISC is overseen by the State Engineer, who has power over supervision, 

measurement, appropriation, and distribution of all surface and groundwater in New 

Mexico. The ISC is specifically responsible for statewide water planning and protecting 

New Mexico’s right to water under 8 interstate stream basins. The ISC participates in 

special projects to address a variety of interests in water delivery and other water issues 

affecting interstate water basins of New Mexico. The ISC does not have any policies 

addressing AIS issues. The ISC is an active participant on the New Mexico AISAC and 

the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

Office of the State Engineer (OSE) 

The OSE is charged with administering the state's water resources, and has authority over 

the supervision, measurement, appropriation, and distribution of all surface and 

groundwater in New Mexico, including streams and rivers that cross state boundaries. 

The State Engineer is also Secretary of the ISC and oversees its staff. The OSE does not 

have any policies addressing AIS issues. The ISC is an active participant on the New 

Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team. 

New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds, 2000-2001 

In 2001, motivated by existing weed law, the state's own Executive Order on noxious 

weeds along with EO 13112, New Mexico wrote, and 33 groups signed, a new 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

17

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The 18 July 2001 MOU draws together all 

levels of land managers to participate and support Coordinated Weed Management Areas 

(CWMAs) in New Mexico. All signatories of the agreement will participate in the 

CWMAs to: inventory, manage, prevent, and eradicate whenever possible, plants 

designated as noxious pursuant to the New Mexico Noxious Weed Management Act of 

1978. The 33 partners will use the New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious 

Weeds, as a basis for coordination. The signatories, in this statewide effort, include: 

federal and state agencies, the military, and many tribal councils. 

PROBLEM DEFINITION AND RANKING 

For centuries humans have intentionally transported plants and animals (e.g., corn, wheat, 

roses, cattle, trout) around the globe, moving species from their native lands and 

introducing them to new areas. Many introductions of nonnative species have been 

beneficial, providing food, clothing, and recreational opportunities for humans. For 

example, NMDGF uses nonnative species such as rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), 

largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and walleye (Sander vitreum) in its fisheries 

management programs. In many cases these management practices have created 

economically valuable fisheries. New Mexico anglers in 2001 recorded almost 2.5 

million fishing days and spent over $211 million, generating $81 million in wages and 

salaries and 3,922 jobs (ASA 2001). 

However, numerous nonnative species have the potential to manifest significant adverse 

impacts on New Mexico’s economic, ecologic, and social resources. The NMPlan bases 

the definition for aquatic invasive species as outlined in Executive Order 13112 on 

Invasive Species, signed by President Clinton on February 3, 1999. This order states that 

an “invasive species” is a nonnative species whose introduction into an aquatic ecosystem 

causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health or safety. 

It is therefore critical to take preventative measures that reduce or eliminate threats and 

effects of AIS. Threats are evidenced by the degree of negative impacts AIS species may 

have upon the State’s environment, industry, and economy. Negative impacts include: 

• fouling of water intakes, control structures, and irrigation pumps; 

• impeded water flow and interference with efficiency of water delivery systems; 

• increased risk of flooding due to clogging of lake and reservoir outlets; 

• fouling of water-based equipment (e.g., boat hulls, motors, waders); 

• decreased recreational opportunities (e.g., fishing, hunting, boating, swimming); 

• increased safety concerns for swimmers; 

• economic impact to water-based operations of industry and to recreationists; 

• decrease in property values; 

• alteration of freshwater nutrient cycling pathways; 

• disruption of aquatic food webs; 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

18

• displacement of native fauna; 

• stunted growth of game and sport fishes; 

• loss of biodiversity; and 

• increased biotic and abiotic stress on aquatic taxa listed as state or federally 

threatened or endangered. 

When dealing with invasive species, prevention is always the preferred goal, as “an 

ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Prevention is achieved by blocking the 

introduction of AIS into the state or, if already present, to isolate the problem in its 

current location. In order to achieve this, it is critical to describe and understand the 

pathways of introduction into and across New Mexico. Equally important is the need to 

identify and rank AIS according to the threat each poses. Classifying AIS is based on a 

multitude of criteria including: previously documented impact on native species, habitats, 

or commercial activities; similarity between source and uninvaded environments; 

proximity of source population of AIS to uninvaded areas; presence of established 

pathways of introduction; and presence of threatened native species in areas of potential 

introduction. 

Ranking AIS based on threat level not only facilitates preventing introductions and 

mitigating impacts, it enables management agencies to direct limited financial resources 

more efficiently. In recognition of the known threats, impacts, and potential problems of 

certain AIS and the state’s current management capabilities, a system to classify species 

was developed that recommends management activities for each classification. Yet, 

because impacts either do not occur immediately or may not be apparent until well after 

establishment, effort must also be devoted to assessing the overall impacts of nonnative 

species, regardless of their classification. The following are examples of species targeted 

by the NMPlan. This listing is not comprehensive, but is provided to illustrate species in 

each priority class. 

AIS Priority Classes 

Priority Class 1

Priority Class 1 species are currently not known to occur in the wild in New Mexico, but 

have a high potential to invade and for which there are limited or no known management 

techniques. Appropriate management for this class includes prevention of introductions 

and eradication of pioneering populations. Examples of species that need to be addressed 

under this priority class are: 

Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) 

Giant salvinia is a free-floating aquatic fern with submerged leaves that function as 

modified roots. It is considered to be one of the world’s worst aquatic pests, and in 

favorable environments, plants may be expected to double in volume within a week 

(Mitchell and Tur 1975). Giant salvinia forms extensive mats that can completely cover 

water surfaces resulting in the degradation of natural habitats by shading native plants, 

reducing available dissolved oxygen, and creating large amounts of decaying plant 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

19

material. The mats may grow up to three feet thick, hindering management by chemical 

control; giant salvinia reproduces so rapidly that infestations quickly outpace available 

management techniques. Giant salvinia can clog water intakes, which interferes with 

irrigation, drainage, and electrical generation. 

Giant salvinia is native to southeastern Brazil, but it has invaded many areas of the world. 

Within a year of its 1998 discovery in the U.S., giant salvinia was found in six states and 

over a dozen local watersheds. Its arrival in the US has been linked to sales from 

commercial nurseries around the country. Human transport will likely spread giant 

salvinia locally, with plants adhering to and carried overland on anything entering 

infested waters, including boats, trailers, vehicular wheels, and other gear. In the US, it 

has been observed in at least 12 states, including Arizona and Texas. Its expected range 

includes USDA hardiness zone 7a, which encompasses the southern third of New Mexico 

and northward to Albuquerque (USGS 2005b). Although not found in the wild, in 2000 

nursery inspectors from NMDA discovered plants in commercial greenhouses in three 

New Mexico counties (i.e., Bernalillo, Luna, Sandoval; USGS 2005c). Cyrtobagous 

salviniae, a weevil that feeds on Salvinia spp., has been used successfully as a biocontrol 

agent in several countries, and is being released as part of control efforts in the Lower 

Colorado River as well as Texas and Louisiana. Triploid (sterile) grass carp have proven 

as an effective biocontrol agent for AIS plants in New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana. 

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) 

Water hyacinth is native to South America but has naturalized many warm areas of the 

world: Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America, India, New Zealand, and North America 

(Canada, southern US, western states [AZ, CA, CO, OR, TX, WA]). Water hyacinth 

grows over a wide variety of wetland types from lakes, streams, ponds, waterways, 

ditches, and backwater areas. This free-floating perennial plant is a very aggressive 

invader and can form thick mats that interfere with navigation, recreation, irrigation, and 

power generation. These mats competitively exclude native submerged and floatingleaved plants. Low oxygen conditions develop beneath water hyacinth mats which can 

impede water flow and create good breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Water hyacinth 

is a severe environmental and economic problem in all of the gulf coast states of the US. 

With the increasing popularity of water gardening and home ponds, water hyacinth is 

now sold by many nurseries for its unusual appearance, attractive flowers, and ability to 

remove nutrients from the water. Water hyacinth is thought to be cold-sensitive and 

unable to survive temperatures below 20 degrees F. Because water hyacinth reproduces 

sexually by seeds, the chances are higher of developing a cold-tolerant ecotype than if it 

reproduced only vegetatively.

Mechanical controls such as harvesting are ineffective for large scale problems, very 

expensive, and cannot keep pace with the rapid plant growth in large water systems. 

Triploid grass carp have been used as an effective biocontrol agent for AIS plants in the 

Rio Grande basin of New Mexico. Three insects have been released as biological control 

agents of water hyacinth (two weevil species [Neochetina spp.] and a moth [Sameodes 

albiguttalis]), but have not proven efficacious for large scale water hyacinth infestations. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

20

The aquatic herbicides 2, 4-D, diquat and a combination of diquat and complexed copper 

have proven effective. Fair control of water hyacinth is obtained with endothall 

dipotassium salt, endothall dipotassium salt and complexed copper, endothall 

dimethylalkylamine salts, and glyphostate. For more information use the following links: 

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/plants/weeds/aqua010.html and 

http://www.protectyourwaters.net/hitchhikers/plants_water_hyacinth.php. 

Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) Virus 

VHS virus occurs in both marine and fresh water environments. VHS is indigenous to 

eastern and western Europe, Japan, and the Pacific Coast (from California to Alaska) and 

Atlantic Coast of North America. Since at least 2003, VHS virus has been present in the 

Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River system, where in 2005 and 2006 a highly virulent and 

easily transmissible strain (IVb) caused massive die-offs of native fishes (e.g., muskies, 

northern pike, walleye, lake whitefish, freshwater drum, yellow perch, gizzard shad, 

redhorse, emerald shiners, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie). 

Fishes are susceptible to infection at any age, but juvenile fish are generally more 

susceptible than adults. VHS virus is transmitted between fish via their urine and 

reproductive fluids; it cannot enter eggs and infect fish before hatching. Virus particles 

in the water infect gill tissue first, and then move to the internal organs and the blood 

vessels, causing hemorrhages in the internal organs, muscle and skin. Fish can also be 

infected when they eat an infected fish. 

Fish mortality from VHS virus is greatest at 38–54o F and is very rare above 60o F. The 

virus becomes inactive after 24 hours at 68oF in water, but can persist in water for five 

days at 39o F. Such viral virulence is well within surface water temperature regimes in 

New Mexico, thus underpinning threats to our fishery resources. 

There is evidence of infections transferred between farmed and free-living fishes in 

European inland waters and coastal areas. The potential for transport with bait fish is 

demonstrated by the virus' recovery in cell culture from frozen Pacific herring after two 

freeze/thaw cycles in a conventional freezer. Waterfowl might also play a role in moving 

the virus, but it does not survive passage through the gut of birds. In the hatchery 

environment, mechanical transfer of VHS virus on animate or inanimate objects presents 

a substantial hazard. The virus has been isolated from feral fish in waters receiving 

hatchery effluent, and can persist in water for several days. These transport mechanisms 

pose threats of VHS virus transmission to cold and warm water fisheries in New Mexico. 

Fisheries professionals should use Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point planning, 

or HACCP, to prevent the spread of the virus; it’s a simple and orderly strategic planning 

tool that helps identify and manage risks in natural resources management. 

The economic impact from large scale die-offs of game fishes could be profound. The 

effects of VHS to endangered species conservation and commercial fisheries could be 

equally significant. For more information visit: 

http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/fisheries/vhs_virus_facts and 

http://www.fws.gov/fisheries/nfhs/VHS.htm.
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

21

Quagga Mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) 

Native to the Black and Caspian seas of eastern Europe, quagga and zebra mussels were 

first discovered in the North America in the late 1980s in the Great Lakes. Dreissenid 

mussels were likely introduced from the Black Sea via ballast water discharge from 

European freighters. By 1994, these species had invaded 19 states in the Mississippi 

River drainage. From 2001 to 2003, zebra mussels spread to Oklahoma, Kansas, and 

Nebraska. In January 2007, quagga mussels were discovered in lakes Mead, Havasu and 

Mojave on the lower Colorado River and in two major aqueducts that supply water to 

southern California and Arizona. In November 2007, zebra mussels were reported from 

Pueblo Reservoir, Pueblo Colorado, some 90 miles from the New Mexico state border. 

In January 2008, zebra mussels were reported in San Justo Reservoir, San Benito County, 

central California. 

Dreissenid mussels and their larvae (veligers) can survive several days of overland 

transport from infested waters by clinging to vegetation attached to hauled boats, boat 

hulls, or in live wells, engine cooling systems, or bait buckets. Dead zebra mussels have 

been discovered on trailered boats in Montana, Arizona, and New Hampshire. Live zebra 

mussels have been found at California agricultural check stations on boats hauled from 

the Midwest. These instances underscore the importance of human-mediated dispersal of 

these AIS, which have likely been transported across New Mexico’s borders. Both 

mussels are prolific fouling organisms with great potential to cause ecologic and 

economic damage in the southwestern region (Kennedy 2007). Surface waters of New 

Mexico are fully capable of supporting and sustaining zebra mussels or quagga mussels. 

Nationwide expenditures to control these invasive mussels in water intake pipes, filtration 

equipment, and electric generating plants are estimated at $3.1 billion over 10 years. 

Red-rim melania (Melanoides tuberculatus) 

Although this aquatic herbivorous snail is native to northern and eastern Africa and 

southeastern Asia, it presently inhabits subtropical and tropical areas throughout the 

world (Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission 2003). Red-rim melania was first 

imported into California by the aquarium industry as early as the 1930s, where the 

species spread from accidental or purposeful release by aquarium and water-garden 

hobbyists (Benson 2005). Since then this snail has invaded 16 states (AZ, CA, CO, FL, 

HA, LA, MT, NC, NV, OR, UT, SD, TX, VA, WY). Other pathways of human-mediated 

dispersal may be responsible for introductions, as researchers and fishermen using 

aquatic equipment (seines, nets, waders) may inadvertently spread snails to uninfested 

waters. Transfer of aquatic plants from infested surface waters or aquaria may also 

facilitate spread of this species. 

This snail evokes broad interest since it serves as a transmission vector for several 

dangerous parasites of humans and numerous wildlife species. Red-rim melania serves 

as an intermediate host for the human Chinese liver fluke and Oriental lung fluke, 

however these trematodes have not yet been found in red-rim melania in the US. It is 

also an intermediate host for the eye fluke, an ocular parasite of waterfowl which 

occasionally infects mammals. Adult stages of this parasite have been isolated from 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

22

piscivorous birds (Green Heron, Great Egret) in Texas. In the US, this snail is a host for 

a parasitic “gill trematode” that affects the health of wild and cultured (tropical) fish 

species (Mitchell et al. 2005). This is particularly germane for native species, as known 

fish hosts include eight families (Centrarchidae, Characidae, Cyprinidae, 

Cyprinodontidae, Ictaluridae, Percidae, Percichthyidae, Poeciliidae) represented in New 

Mexico, including federal and state listed species (Pecos gambusia, Mexican tetra, 

greenthroat darter). The gill trematode is carried by federally-protected aquatic birds and 

is found in ranid frogs. Red-rim melania have been reported to competitively displace 

native gastropods, posing concern for endemic populations of hydrobiid snails of New 

Mexico. 

The red-rim melania can be purchased in many pet shops and over the internet. This 

species flourishes in waters with salinity from 0 to 30 ppt and temperatures from 18 to 

32oC—physicochemical regimes typical of surface waters of New Mexico. Eradication 

using molluscicides has proven effective in ornamental fish ponds, but such pesticides are 

of limited use in larger through-flowing systems, and are not recommended in small 

spring-fed streams where native aquatic fauna may be adversely affected by toxic 

chemicals. Movement between sites can be prevented by disinfecting aquatic equipment 

in a hot water bath or soaking in a quaternary ammonium solution (10 ppm for 24 hrs.). 

New Zealand Mudsnail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) 

Native to New Zealand, this species was discovered in 1987 in the middle Snake River, 

Idaho. They are now found in all western states, except New Mexico. These tiny snails 

(~7 mm long) are parthenogenic (clonal) livebearers with a high reproductive potential. 

Densities of mudsnails can be extremely high (300,000 to 750,000 snails/m2). 

Potamogyrpus antipodarum has been shown to alter appreciably primary production in 

some streams. Limited research has documented decreases in populations of native 

macroinvertebrates in several rivers infested by mudsnails. Although adapted to a variety 

of aquatic habitats (estuaries, lakes, streams), mudsnails can withstand extended periods 

of desiccation (20-50 days on damp substratum). These life history attributes place 

recreationists (angler, hikers) and aquatic researchers who may contact infested waters as 

high-risk transport agents for spreading populations to new areas. Fish stocking and 

transfers from hatcheries may accelerate the spread and introduction of mudsnails, as the 

species has been reported to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract of trout. 

These findings pose concerns that mudsnails have the potential to impact native aquatic 

species, fisheries, and ecosystems in the western USA. For more information visit: 

http://www.esg.montana.edu/aim/mollusca/nzms/id.html. 

Channeled (or Golden) Applesnail (Pomacea spp.)

These amphibious snails are widely distributed in lakes, ponds and swamps throughout 

their native range in southeastern Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. 

Applesnails were introduced to Southeast Asia around 1980, as a local food resource and 

potential gourmet export item. The markets never developed, applesnails escaped or 

were released, and they became a serious agricultural pest in rice fields throughout many 

Indo-Pacific countries (Cowie 2005). Human-mediated dispersal via trade pathways 

(e.g., live food, aquaculture, water-garden nursery, pet/aquarium, illicit importation) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

23

resulted in the spread of applesnails to Central America and the Caribbean (Bronson 

2002). In the US, nonnative populations Pomacea spp. are established in Alabama, 

Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Texas (Howells 2003, 

http://www.manandmollusc.net/Odessa/apple-snail.html.). 

The systematics of P. canaliculata is an area of ongoing research (Cowie et al. 2006, 

http://www.cofc.edu/~fwgna/species/ampullariidae/p_canaliculata.html). On the basis of 

mtDNA sequence data, populations in Georgia have been referred to Pomacea insularum

(Rawlings et al. 2007). While morphological distinction between adult P. canaliculata

and P. insularum seems negligible, there are suggestive differences in egg mass 

morphology (Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission). Currently in Florida, the aquarium 

industry is producing and marketing the native spiketopped applesnail (Pomacea 

bridgesi) as the “Golden Apple Snail.” Snails of the genus Pomacea are not native to 

New Mexico, but are sold in-state by the aquarium industry. 

Water currents are one of the main means of dispersal within a watershed, especially 

irrigation canals. This species’ tolerance of water temperatures down to 50oF, combined 

with its lung and gill respiratory system, high reproductive potential and voracious 

appetite, poses concerns for thermally-derived surface waters of New Mexico. Potential 

impacts could involve consumption of native aquatic vegetation leading to habitat 

modification, as well as competitive interactions with the native aquatic fauna, including 

hydrobiid snails endemic to thermal spring systems. 

Tilapia (Oreochromis spp., Sarotherodon sp. and Tilapia spp.) 

Tilapia are potential competitors with native fish for spawning areas, food, and space, as 

well as potential vectors for parasites and diseases. Populations of various species of 

tilapia are established in Arizona and Texas where these invasions have coincided with 

reductions of native fish species. Tilapia (possibly Tilapia aurea) was introduced into 

New Mexico at two locations prior to 1990 as fish stockings. While these populations 

did not survive, the NMDGF has received and approved importation requests for smallscale, contained food industry operations at two facilities in the state. The current threat 

is from humans illicitly translocating live fish from approved facilities or from range 

expansion via shared drainages. 

Asian Carps (Bighead, Black, Silver, and Common) 

Common carp have been introduced legally or illegally and have spread into nearly every 

state in the US. Bighead and silver carps are spreading rapidly but are found mainly in 

the Mississippi River drainage basin. Black carp have been collected in the Mississippi 

River but are not thought to have established reproducing populations at this time. Asian 

carps represent a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems because they are large-bodied 

fishes with ravenous appetites and high reproductive potential; accordingly, these fish 

pose a significant risk to aquatic ecosystems. They can weigh up to 100 pounds, and can 

grow to a length of more than four feet. Asian carps may out-compete native fish, 

causing severe hardship to local fishing industries. Boaters have been injured by silver 

carp jumping out of the water and into or over boats in response to outboard motors. 

Researchers anticipate that Asian carps pose many threats to native fish and aquatic 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

24

ecosystems. Silver and bighead carp compete for plankton with native fish. Black carp 

threaten imperiled native freshwater mollusks, as they feed almost exclusively on mussels 

and snails. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service added all forms of live silver carp, 

largescale silver carp, and black carp (gametes, viable eggs, and hybrids) to the list of 

injurious fish under the Lacey Act (Federal Register 2007a, 2007b). For more 

information use the following links: http://www.epa.gov/grtlakes/invasive/asiancarp/ and 

http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/invasive_species/asian_carp.html. 

Priority Class 2 

Priority Class 2 species are present and established in New Mexico, but with impacts that 

may be mitigated or controlled through appropriate management. These species can be 

managed by actions that involve mitigation of impact, control of population size, and 

prevention of dispersal to other waterbodies. Examples of species addressed under this 

priority class are: 

Whirling Disease (Myxobolus cerebralis) 

Whirling disease is a protozoan parasite that affects the nervous system of salmonids. 

This parasite has a two-host life cycle: salmonids and a common aquatic worm. A freeswimming stage enters young trout and attacks the cartilage, eventually crippling the fish. 

The whirling disease parasite was first introduced to the United States from Europe in the 

1950s, probably in infected trout. The disease spread as these infected trout were 

distributed among hatcheries or were stocked in open waters. It now occurs in the wild in 

11 western states and is a major problem in some, such as Montana. There, it has 

decimated trout populations in some watersheds: the rainbow trout population in the 

Madison River has declined by 90% since the introduction of the disease. In New 

Mexico, whirling disease was first reported (1998) from the Moreno drainage near Eagle 

Nest Lake, and in the state hatchery system in 1999. More recently trout caught in the 

San Juan River tested positive. The potential economic impact to the state’s trout 

fisheries is great and minimizing spread of the disease is imperative. 

Asian fish tapeworm (Bothriocephalus acheilognathi) 

Imported to the US in the 1970s, grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) carried the Asian 

fish tapeworm, which is now also widely established in the US. The Asian tapeworm 

was first recorded in the Utah stretch of the San Juan River in 1994, and is now reported 

in upstream reaches of New Mexico (Utah Dept. of Agriculture 1997). Several studies 

demonstrated the ability of the parasite to infect many species of fish in the families 

Poeciliidae and Cyprinidae, including species of chub, shiner, and minnow (Brouder and 

Hoffnagle 1997, Clarkson et al. 1997, Kuperman et al. 2005). The negative effects of the 

Asian tapeworm on carp are well known and it now appears the parasite is pathogenic in 

native fish. In Arizona younger age classes of bonytail chub (Gila elegans) infected with 

the Asian tapeworm were stunted and when stressed had lower survival rates compared to 

uninfected chub (USGS 2005d). Recent evidence also suggests infection can result from 

piscivory of infected fish, and not solely from preying upon the infected intermediate 

copepod host as previously thought. Eradicating any fish parasite is very difficult in a 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

25

large waterbody, therefore it is crucial to focus efforts on containing the Asian tapeworm 

to already infested waters of New Mexico. 

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) 

Hydrilla was imported into the United States from Asia in the early 1950s for use in 

aquaria, and was likely introduced into the wild near Tampa and Miami, Florida. 

Hydrilla is currently the most abundant aquatic plant in Florida, where it grows in thick 

surface mats and displaces native vegetation. Distribution in the US now ranges from 

Connecticut southward along the coast to Texas. The plant is also present in California 

and Arizona. In New Mexico hydrilla is reported from Sandoval County. Introduction of 

hydrilla into new waterbodies is most likely to occur by recreational boats and equipment 

carrying plant fragments from infested habitats. Elsewhere in the US, hydrilla has 

reached 40o N latitude, therefore it has the potential to invade and proliferate in most 

waters of New Mexico. 

 

Hydrilla causes major problems with water use. In drainage and irrigation canals, it 

greatly reduces flow and causes clogging, which can result in flooding and damage to 

canal banks, structures, and pumps. In utility cooling reservoirs, hydrilla can disrupt 

flows necessary for adequate water-cooling. In addition to interfering with recreational 

and commercial vessel navigation, hydrilla hampers swimming, alters native vegetation 

communities, and can damage sport fish populations. Management includes herbicides 

and physical removal of all plant fragments from waterbodies, boats, lines, and fishing 

gear. Sterile (triploid) grass carp could be an effective biocontrol agent for hydrilla, as 

this management technique has proven efficacious for AIS plants in the Rio Grande basin 

of New Mexico. 

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) 

Purple loosestrife, an erect perennial herb with showy flowers, is a wetland invader that 

was imported from Europe in the early 1800s as an ornamental and for its medicinal 

value. Purple loosestrife adapts readily to natural and disturbed wetlands. As this species 

establishes and expands, it outcompetes and replaces native grasses, sedges, and other 

flowering plants that provide a higher quality source of nutrition for wildlife. The highly 

invasive nature of purple loosestrife allows it to form dense, homogeneous stands that 

restrict native wetland plant species and reduce wildlife habitat. It is found in most of the 

lower 48 states and could invade all. Purple loosestrife is adapted to a variety of wetland 

habitats, including river and stream banks, the edges of ponds, lakes, and reservoirs, and 

wet meadows. It reproduces vegetatively and by seeds, with each plant capable of 

producing millions of seeds per year, which are dispersed by birds and other animals. 

Purple loosestrife is still sold by nurseries in many states, though 24 states have listed it 

as a noxious weed and prohibit its sale. Small infestations can be managed by handpulling or herbicide application. Physical removal needs to be done before flowering and 

mowing is not effective. For larger areas biocontrol agents are more promising. Four 

insect species from Europe have been approved by the USDA for controlling purple 

loosestrife. Three of these insect species have been released across the US and Canada. 

The leaf-feeding beetle, Galerucella calmariensis, has provided successful control of the 

target weed in as little as 3 years reducing plant populations by as much as 100%. The 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

26

impact of introduced beetles on native, non-target species is considered low. 

Nutria (Myocastor coypus) 

A large rodent native to South America, nutria were introduced into New Mexico in the 

1950s (Carter and Leonard 2002). In the late 1990s, they remained abundant in isolated 

locations and still persist in the upper Rio Hondo drainage of southeastern New Mexico. 

They occur as far north as Washington and Michigan and thus have the potential to 

invade most aquatic habitats in New Mexico. Due to the ecological and economic impact 

they cause, nutria have been nominated for the Invasive Species Specialist Group list of 

“100 of the World’s Worst Invaders.” Nutria, like most rodents, are extremely prolific. 

This trait combined with a lack of predators in their introduced ranges often results in an 

overabundance of nutria. At high population levels, nutria impact native species, such as 

muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), through competition, consumption of native plants, and 

transformation of vegetated wetlands to open water, which can impact waterfowl and 

other aquatic species. In states such as Louisiana, nutria burrowing damages canals, 

impoundments and levees, costing millions of dollars annually in mitigation. 

Priority Class 3 

Priority Class 3 represent species that are firmly established throughout New Mexico and 

that may have both ecological and economic impacts, but feasible management 

techniques are not currently available. These species warrant further evaluation to 

determine the extent of their distribution and effort to prevent introduction to new 

waterbodies. Research is often required to clarify their actual and potential impact on 

state resources and to develop control methods. Invasive plant risk assessment and 

ranking methods are available to facilitate impact analyses (e.g., 

http://www.natureserve.org/library/invasiveSpeciesAssessmentProtocol.pdf and 

http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/literatr/aprs/index.htm). Examples of species 

addressed under this priority class are: 

Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis)

Chytridiomycosis is an infectious disease that affects amphibians worldwide. Caused by 

the chytrid fungus, chytridiomycosis is capable of causing sporadic deaths in some 

amphibian populations and 100% mortality in others. Amphibian chytrid fungus is 

hypothesized to have originated in Africa, and has been disseminated worldwide through 

the international trade in African clawed frogs (Xenopus laevis) for use in human 

pregnancy assays beginning in the mid-1930s. The disease has been implicated in mass 

die-offs and species extinctions of frogs in the past 15 years, but its true impact on 

populations remains uncertain and is under investigation. Chytrid fungi typically live in 

water or soil, although some are parasites of plants and insects. They reproduce 

asexually and have spores that “swim” through the water. Only the amphibian chytrid 

fungus is known to infect vertebrate species. Individual frogs are thought to contract the 

disease when their skin comes into contact with water that contains spores. Much is still 

unknown about the biology of the fungus and the disease in the wild, including how the 

fungus survives in the absence of amphibian populations, and how it spreads. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

27

Interactions between the fungus and environmental factors which may in turn affect the 

physiological response of infected individuals are considered important. 

Didymo or rocksnot (Didymosphenia geminata)

Didymo is a native alga (see Glossary for definition of “alga”) from northern Europe and 

Vancouver Island, Canada (Kilroy 2004). Over the past several years, a pattern of 

expanding range and nuisance populations has developed in North America, Europe and 

New Zealand (Spading and Elwell 2007). It has been introduced into several western 

states, including California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. Davis 

(2008) confirmed the first record of didymo in the upper watershed of the Pecos River 

near Cowles, New Mexico. 

Didymo is likely spread by human-assisted means, such as on boats, fishing equipment, 

and footwear. It appears to prefer oligotrophic habitats (low in nutrients and organic 

productivity), but can be found in any freshwater streams, rivers, and lakes. The apparent 

increase in invasiveness of didymo may be related to various factors, including climatic 

changes, altered grazer communities, or genetic changes. Didymo can undergo explosive 

growth creating massive algal blooms, which can significantly impact stream ecosystem 

function, including the ability to alter biotic community structure, foodweb dynamics, 

and hydraulics of streams and rivers. Didymo represents a significant strain on regional 

and national economies through impacts to tourism, fisheries, and hydropower. 

In collaboration with the US Forest Service and Trout Unlimited, state agencies 

(NMDGF, NMED) are monitoring the didymo invasion in the upper Pecos watershed, 

and have posted streamside Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! signage and information urging 

anglers to remove, disinfect, and dry all fishing tackle and gear after fishing didymo 

infested or uninfested waters. 

Golden Alga (Prymnesium parvum) 

First reported in New Mexico and Texas waters in the 1980s (NMDGF 2004), golden 

alga (see Glossary for definition of “alga”) may have been present in the Pecos River 

since the 1960s (Rhodes and Hubbs 1992). Recently, golden algal blooms (2002-2007) 

have caused extensive fish kills in Brantley, Bataan, and Carlsbad Municipal reservoirs in 

the lower Pecos River; blooms in isolated ponds near Eunice and Roswell were reported 

in 2005 (NMDGF 2004, NMDGF 2005). Golden alga produces a toxin that is lethal to 

gill-breathing organisms (e.g., larval insects, mollusks, crustaceans, fish, amphibians), 

resulting in suffocation. Blooms usually occur in winter and early spring. On large water 

bodies it is virtually impossible to eradicate. The NMDGF is currently monitoring 

golden alga and is investigating the causes for its spread. 

Arundo (Arundo donax), Brazilian waterweed (Egeria densa), Parrotfeather 

(Myriophyllum aquaticum), Eurasian watermilfoil (M. spicatum), Curly pondweed 

(Potamogeton crispus) and other aquatic nonindigenous plants. 

These species have been introduced through their use in aquaria and water gardens. Once 

they become established in a waterbody, they quickly grow into dense mats that shade 

out native plants and algae, reduce fish habitat and impede recreational use. These 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

28

species reproduce rapidly. Plant fragments capable of establishing new colonies when 

disturbed by recreational activity, and are easily transported to new waterbodies through 

fouling of boat props and trailers. These plants infest many drainages in New Mexico. 

Of these, Eurasian watermilfoil is the most widely distributed, occurring in at least seven 

drainages (Little Colorado, Rio Grande Headwaters, Rio Grande Elephant Butte, Upper 

Canadian, Upper Cimarron, Upper Gila, and Upper Rio Grande). Arundo is a bamboolike perennial grass that infests riparian areas, floodplains, and irrigation ditches. This 

aquatic plant is established in Sandoval, Bernalillo, Guadalupe, Sierra, Dona Ana, and 

Otero counties of New Mexico. Parrotfeather is present in Bernalillo, Valencia, Socorro, 

Sierra, Dona Ana, and Colfax counties of New Mexico. Curly pondweed is recorded in 

the Little Colorado, Rio Grande Elephant Butte, and Prairie Dog Town Red Fork 

drainages (USGS 2005a). 

Nonnative crayfish (Orconectes spp., Procambarus spp.) 

Four species of nonnative crayfish (Orconectes rusticus, O. virilis, O. immunis, 

Procambarus clarkii) have been introduced to New Mexico (Lang and Mehlhop 1996, 

NMDGF files). Common pathways of introduction can include release as live-bait or 

forage base by anglers, intentional release of aquarium pets or school study organisms, 

and escapees from aquaculture. Nonnative crayfish possess many characteristics of a 

successful invader: habitat generalists, broad dietary preferences, high reproductive 

potential, and aggressiveness towards other species (Kats and Ferrer 2003). As 

omnivores, crayfish forage on plants and invertebrates, non-consumptively destroy 

aquatic vegetation, prey upon various life stages of vertebrates, and may out-compete fish 

for food and shelter. Invasive crayfish frequently displace native crayfish by 

transmission of disease or parasites, predation, and competition. Introduction of 

nonnative crayfish to Arizona has been detrimental to native aquatic biota and 

ecosystems (Fernandez and Rosen 1996a, b, c). The ecologic and economic impacts of 

naturalized populations of nonnative crayfish are well-recognized worldwide (Taylor et 

al. 1996, 2007; Lodge et al. 2000a; Williams et al. 2001; de Moor 2002). 

Environmentally sound methods to eradicate or control introduced populations of 

crayfish have not been developed adequately. 

Asian Clam (Corbicula fluminea) 

Asian clams have had one of the most rapid range expansions of any non-indigenous 

species in North America. Corbicula fluminea is found in lotic and lentic habitats over its 

native range in southeastern Asia (China, Korea, southeastern Russia). Introduction of 

this species in North America is attributed to Chinese immigrants who used Asian clams 

as food (Sinclair 1971). Viable populations on the west coast of the US were likely 

established sometime prior to 1938. Since that time it has spread across the continent and 

is present in streams, canals, lakes, and reservoirs in 38 states (Balcom 1994). This 

species was first reported in the Mesilla Valley of Texas and New Mexico in 1964 

(Metcalf 1966), and is now found in suitable habitats throughout the middle and lower 

reaches of the Rio Grande, Canadian River, and Pecos River, including some headwater 

streams in New Mexico. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

29

Asian clams are a serious biofouling pest throughout the US, especially in agricultural 

and industrial water distribution systems. Asian clams are drawn into intake pipes. Live 

animals, empty shells and body tissues obstruct water flow through irrigation gates and 

canals, condenser tubes, valves, and service water systems. Buoyant dead clams clog 

intake screens. In 1980, the costs of correcting this problem in the eastern US were 

estimated at $1 billion annually. Given this species high growth and reproductive rates 

(densities may range from 10-130,000 clams/m2

), concerns exist for the capacity of the 

Asian clam to alter trophic and nutrient dynamics of aquatic systems and to displace 

native bivalves. 

Humans are responsible for the dispersal of this clam. In the US, it is sold as fish bait. 

The species is marketed as "pygmy" or "gold" clams through the aquarium trade. 

Invasive pathways include: waterbird-mediated transport, inadvertent or intentional 

releases (e.g., anglers, aquarists, classroom researchers), and transport in ship ballast 

waters or hull shipments of conglomerates. The crawling larva (pediveliger) has made it 

possible for this species to spread rapidly both upstream and downstream in any drainage 

to which it is introduced. 

Eradication or control in water-based industrial systems include chemical, thermal, and 

mechanical treatments. Annual drying of irrigation canals may effectively control 

populations in water delivery systems. Environmentally sound methods of removal or 

control in surface waters have not been developed. 

Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) 

The bullfrog is one of the most widely distributed amphibians on the North American 

continent. The species has been introduced widely throughout the West (Rosen and 

Schwalbe 1995). In New Mexico, bullfrogs occur statewide at lower elevations wherever 

suitable habitat exists. The status of bullfrog populations across the state is unclear: those 

west of the Continental Divide are introduced, whereas those east of the Divide may be 

introduced or native (Degenhardt et al. 1996). As generalist predators and prolific 

breeders, they are thought to compete with and prey on native anurans, and may be the 

cause of localized extinctions of native wetland herpetofauna (Degenhardt et al. 1996). 

Bullfrog larvae can impact benthic algae and thus alter aquatic community structure. 

Priority Class 4 

Priority Class 4 species are not present in New Mexico and are currently considered to 

have a low potential to invade and establish, either because of physiological or dispersal 

limits. These species warrant proactive measures to prevent their importation or 

introduction to the State. Research is recommended to evaluate their invasive potential, 

including management techniques that may prove effective elsewhere for naturalized 

populations. Examples of species addressed under this priority class include: 

Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) 

In 1990, the round goby was introduced, via ballast water, into the Great Lakes system on 

the Michigan-Ontario border. Populations of native fish species have declined in areas 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

30

where this goby has become abundant. The round goby preys on darters, other small fish, 

and lake trout eggs and fry in laboratory experiments (Marsden and Jude 1995). The 

potential range of the round goby includes New Mexico. However, pathways of 

introduction into New Mexico are limited in comparison to AIS found in neighboring 

states that share drainages (e.g., tilapia in AZ) or those that can survive overland transport 

on equipment (e.g., zebra or quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnail). 

Australian Crayfish (Family Parastacidae) 

All nine genera of Australian crayfish belong to the family Parastacidae. Among this 

diversity of taxa, which exceeds 100 species, Australia has some of the most colorful, 

lavishly ornamented, and largest species of freshwater crayfish in the world. Such 

physical attributes have attracted commercial interests in this resource for aquaculture, 

food, and pet trade industries, not only in Australia, but in similar markets worldwide. 

Three species, the yabby (Cherax destructor), redclaw (C. quadricarinatus) and marron 

(C. tenuimanus), are exploited commercially for international markets in New Zealand, 

Southeast Asia, Central and South America, Africa, and the United States (Masser and 

Rouse 1997). In the US, redclaw is cultured in research facilities at Kentucky State 

University and Auburn University, Alabama. At least six species of Cherax are sold in 

pet stores throughout the US (AL, AZ, CA, ID, LA, NV, OR, WA) and are readily 

available over the internet. 

Numerous examples worldwide chronicle the release (accidental or intentional) or escape 

of exotic crayfish held in captivity, and the subsequent establishment of naturalized 

populations (Taylor et al. 1996, 2007; Lodge et al. 2000a; Williams et al. 2001; de Moor 

2002). Nonnative crayfish are well-establish in aquatic habitats throughout New 

Mexico; many of these systems represent watersheds shared with adjacent states where 

invasive crayfish are problematic (e.g. Arizona; see Fernandez and Rosen 1996a, b, c). 

In New Mexico, surface waters derived from thermal groundwater sources (Summers 

1976) are capable of supporting viable populations of Cherax species. 

Both NMDGF and Arizona Game and Fish Department have reviewed and denied 

requests to import Australian Cherax species for the aquaculture and food industries. 

Requests to import Australian crayfish will likely increase as current research seeks to 

improve methods for breeding, rearing, and holding of captive populations in the US. 

Such advances will facilitate the supply of domestically reared stock and lower 

production costs, which inherently confers increased product marketability to the 

aquaculture, pet/aquarium, food, and culinary industries. As emphasized in Lodge et al. 

(2000b), stakeholders with vested interests in all facets of economic development and 

resource management will need to exercise prudence when considering requests to import 

exotic crayfish to New Mexico. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

31

AIS MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

The goal of the NMPlan is: 

That the potentially harmful ecological, economic, and social impacts resulting from 

the presence of AIS in New Mexico are precluded or minimized through prevention 

and management of introduction, population growth, and dispersal into, within, and 

from New Mexico. 

To achieve this goal the following actions are proposed: 

• establish a New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council (AISAC); 

• secure an executive order from the Governor requiring full participation of involved 

state agencies on the AISAC; 

• secure funds appropriated by the state legislature to support an AIS program, 

including the expansion of law enforcement authority; 

• create a state-level Invasive Species Coordinator (Coord) position; 

• establish a database for cataloging AIS in the state; 

• initiate a system to rank AIS based on threat level; 

• develop a monitoring system for documenting the presence and distribution of AIS in 

the state; 

• adopt a list of AIS prohibited from entry into the state; 

• prevent the movement of AIS into, within, and out of the state; 

• minimize the impact of established AIS on native biota, ecosystems, and the public; 

• devise a rapid-response system for detecting, investigating, and eradicating newly 

reported AIS or populations; 

• organize educational and outreach efforts to increase public awareness of AIS; 

• establish a system to coordinate AIS management efforts between state, federal, 

tribal, regional, and local agencies, and private organizations; and 

• outline research goals and mechanisms to fund management efforts. 

The parties supporting this strategy understand that it is a non-binding statement of 

consensus. This plan is intended as a general understanding and agreement on how to 

approach AIS management in New Mexico. This strategic plan is an attempt to 

coordinate individual efforts into a more comprehensive AIS management program, 

where the sum of collective efforts ends up greater than sum of the parts. A cooperative, 

concerted effort will result in a win-win situation for the economy, environment and the 

citizens of New Mexico. 

It is not possible to address all potential invaders, their impacts, and the constraints and 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

32

contingencies that may develop. Consequently, the NMPlan is intended to be adaptable 

to changing circumstances. Although all strategies and actions identified in this plan are 

important, the formation of the AISAC and funding to support the Coordinator are critical 

to effective AIS management in New Mexico. Activities and priorities of the NMPlan 

will be under continual review. An annual report will be produced by the AISAC, which 

will include recommendations for updating and modifying management activities and 

priorities. Ultimately, the Coord will oversee all initiatives of the NMPlan. 

Acronyms that follow are defined in the List of Acronyms and Abbreviations. When used 

under the Recommended Strategies and Actions to achieve plan Objectives, the term 

“State” refers to the EMNRD, ISC, NMDA, NMDGF, NMDH, NMED, and OSE. Other 

state agencies are listed parenthetically where their expertise is considered useful to 

achieve specific plan Objectives (e.g., State [NMEDD, NMDT]). The term “Fed” refers 

to the BP, BoR, BLM, CoE, DoA, EPA, USFS, USFWS, USGS, and USNPS. A nongovernmental organization (NGO) is a non-profit, legally constituted organization created 

by private persons or organizations with no participation or representation of any 

government. The term “municipalities” (MUN) includes entities of governance by 

counties and cities. The term “Private” may include, but is not necessarily limited to: 

citizens, business, lake associations, outdoor recreation groups, watershed groups, 

marinas, etc. The term “water management districts” (WMD) pertains to quasigovernmental agencies that manage and distribute water. 

In accordance with the federal guidelines set forth by ANSTF, the NMDGF developed a 

preliminary draft AIS management plan and then solicited stakeholder interest to serve on 

the New Mexico AIS Advisory Council (AISAC). The AISC’s initial tasks were to 

organize itself and to manage the review and revision of the draft NMPlan. During a 30-

day public comment period, representatives from all stakeholder groups and potentially 

affected publics were requested to advise the AISAC regarding revisions of the plan, 

including their role(s), management tasks, and financial responsibilities as tentatively 

identified under the Objectives and Implementation Table. 

Objective 1: COORDINATE AND IMPLEMENT A COMPREHENSIVE 

AIS MANAGEMENT PLAN. 

Problem Addressed: Threats posed by AIS have not been recognized by agencies or 

adequately addressed in New Mexico. Although adverse impacts from AIS in New 

Mexico may have been somewhat limited to date, proactive measures are needed to 

prevent new introductions and further damage from occurring. There is no clear state 

authority or agency charged with limiting and managing AIS. When the issue is 

undertaken, most management activities are focused on isolated problems and do not 

approach AIS in a comprehensive, interagency manner. The lack of coordination, 

oversight, and funding has allowed many invasive species to become established in New 

Mexico and permits new introductions. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

33

Establishment of a NMPlan with appropriate implementation, authority and resources 

will permit effective prevention and management of AIS. Most importantly, native 

species and their habitats, in addition to the state’s ecologic and economic resources, can 

be protected from the negative impacts of AIS. 

Current Agency Activities

New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds, 2000-2001. The NMDA has 

developed a strategy for addressing weed problems in New Mexico. The Weed Plan is a 

multilateral agreement between federal and state agencies, and local organizations. 

Currently, the Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds is being implemented at the 

local (county or multi-county) level, primarily on Cooperative Weed Management Areas. 

Soil and Water Conservation Districts are also implementing weed control in accordance 

with the Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds. This plan has not been funded, but 

grants have been obtained for specific projects (Jim Wanstall, Noxious Weed 

Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, pers. com.) 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

Since 1997 the NMDGF has represented the State of New Mexico on the Western 

Regional Panel (WRP) of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force and the 100th

Meridian Initiative. AIS activities to date include: attending WRP meetings, annual 

correspondence with the ANSTF regarding agency and state-level AIS actions, 

responding to regional and national AIS surveys coordinated through the ANSTF and the 

WGA, distribution of AIS education and outreach materials (zebra mussel and New 

Zealand mudsnail watch cards, bait bucket bumper stickers), and collaborative efforts 

with State Parks to post AIS “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers” signage at state-owned boat 

ramps and public fishing stream access points. NMDGF is currently acting as the lead 

agency coordinating development of the NMPlan. NMDGF implements its own 

Integrated Pest Management Plan for noxious weeds and works with some Cooperative 

Weed Management Areas. 

United States Fish and Wildlife Service 

In 2001, the Region 2 ANS Coordinator initiated contact with State agencies to increase 

the awareness of existing and potential AIS issues in New Mexico. Since then the 

Coordinator has served an influential role directing and supporting current efforts 

towards development of the NMPlan, implementation of prevention and early detection 

programs, and dissemination of public information and outreach materials. 

Gaps in State Management Programs and Authorities

• Existing authorities under the New Mexico Administrative Code do not adequately 

address current issues related to AIS. 

• Many of these authorities are unclear in their scope or means of application. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

34

• There is no single agency in New Mexico State Government designated with an 

overall mandate to develop and implement an AIS program. 

• Activities are insufficiently coordinated in the state and within the region. 

• Lack of funding results in staffing shortages and unaccomplished projects. 

• The New Mexico Border Authority (NMBA) and Transportation Authority are not 

involved in AIS monitoring. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions

The suggested lead stakeholder(s) for each action is indicated in parentheses. 

Designation of responsible parties will need to be determined jointly among cooperating 

entities and may be subject to change. Each action will require cooperation, 

collaborations and participation of state and federal agencies, the Tribes, municipalities, 

private industry, and public interest groups. 

Strategy 1A: Coordinate all AIS management programs and activities 

within New Mexico. 

 1A1. Organize and administer the New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory 

Council (AISAC). (Gov, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private, MUN, WMD) 

 1A2. Create and fund an Invasive Species Coordinator (Coord) position. The Coord 

will be a member of AISAC whose responsibilities may be divided between the 

AIS program and invasive species issues. (Gov, Leg, AISAC, State, Fed) 

 1A3. Identify and coordinate with key personnel in state, federal and tribal 

governments, and private, MUN and WMD entities for AIS responsibilities. 

(Gov, Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private, MUN, WMD) 

 1A4. Develop a list of all established nonnative aquatic species present in New 

Mexico and develop management strategies for dealing with them as listed by 

priority class. (Coord, AISAC) 

 1A5. Consult with the ANSTF Executive Secretary and the National Invasive Species 

Council to develop a set of uniform definitions and terms to describe AIS. 

(Coord, AISAC) 

 1A6. Develop an AIS management course for agency personnel and others. (Coord, 

AISAC, Fed) 

 1A7. Develop AIS assessment guidelines as needed for federal state, tribal and local 

government or other governing bodies. (Coord, AISAC) 

 1A8. Conduct an annual forum focused on AIS in New Mexico to update current 

status and potential management alternatives. (Coord, AISAC, Fed) 

Strategy 1B: Participate in and support regional, federal, and 

international efforts to control AIS. 

 1B1. Participate in the ANS Task Force’s WRP. (Coord, AISAC) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

35

 1B2. Support the 100th Meridian Initiative. (Gov, Coord, AISAC) 

 1B3. Coordinate with neighboring US and Mexican states on AIS issues, and develop 

shared-basin AIS initiatives. (Gov, Coord, AISAC, NMBA, OSE, ISC) 

Strategy 1C: Increase existing funding and resources for AIS 

management and establish new funding and resources. 

 1C1. Pursue stable funding sources for AIS management in New Mexico by seeking 

federal funding from the NISA, state legislature, and other available sources. 

(Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes) 

 1C2. Develop partnerships with private groups to fund prevention and eradication 

efforts. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO) 

Strategy 1D: Review and evaluate State efforts addressing AIS. 

 1D1. Conduct a periodic assessment of AIS species presence and abundance in New 

Mexico. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD) 

 1D2. Evaluate and update the NMPlan as needed, with annual progress reports and a 

five-year program report. (Coord, AISAC) 

OBJECTIVE 2: PREVENT THE INTRODUCTION OF AIS INTO NEW 

MEXICO. 

Problem Addressed: There are many different pathways by which new species can 

arrive in New Mexico. Species that provide sport fishing opportunities, erosion control, 

food, and aesthetic enjoyment have been intentionally brought to New Mexico and 

released into the wild or escaped from private ponds or holding facilities. Humans may 

unintentionally introduce AIS through various recreational, economic development, and 

management activities. AIS in neighboring states and Mexico may disperse into New 

Mexico by natural means, such as transport on animals or by range expansion. 

Understanding how these pathways function as conduits for AIS into New Mexico is 

critical for intercepting species and preventing introductions. Although, factors such as 

proximity to source populations of AIS and similarities in habitat requirements make it 

possible to assess some of the species which pose a threat of invading New Mexico, little 

is known regarding most of the potential AIS and their pathways into the state. Yet, the 

most effective method to control AIS and their impacts is to prevent their introduction. 

Implementation of a program that reviews and regulates which species are intentionally 

allowed into New Mexico, and monitors the pathways by which species can be 

unintentionally transported into New Mexico, is necessary to slow the rate at which new 

species become introduced or established. Under this program, provisions would exist 

for monitoring the pathways by which species can be intentionally transported into New 

Mexico. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

36

Current Agency Activities 

New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

Through the annual nursery inspections, NMDA maintains a program to inspect nurseries 

for plant pests. The New Mexico Noxious Weed Act authorizes NMDA to declare a 

weed as noxious, in turn making sale, planting or distribution into or within the state 

illegal. 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

The NMDGF regulates the importation of all non-domesticated animals into the state, 

except fish from government hatcheries. 

Gaps in State Prevention Programs and Authorities

• Lack of an AIS coordinator with appropriate authority to design and implement a 

prevention program. 

• Limited authority and funding to quarantine species and points of origin. 

• Limited authority, funding, and staff to enforce laws relating to AIS. 

• New plant species are not reviewed before importation. 

• No coordinated inspection program among law enforcement authorities for trailered 

boats crossing state borders via major interstate traffic routes or watercraft in transit 

on intrastate transportation routes. 

• No boat inspection or decontamination training for law enforcement. 

• No inspection of watercrafts prior to launch into state waters during water-based 

activities (e.g., fishing tournaments, boating events, etc.). 

• Limited collaboration between state authorities and the pet/aquarium industry to 

create public awareness of the problems of AIS and to prevent accidental and 

purposeful introductions. 

• Limited enforcement ability over mail order or internet sales of organisms. 

• NMBA has limited role. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions 

The lead agency for each action is indicated in parenthesis. Each task will require 

coordination, collaboration, and participation of other state and federal agencies, tribal 

authorities, private industry, and public interest groups. 

Strategy 2A: Research and address potential AIS and their pathways of 

introduction. 

 2A1. Review existing AIS programs from other states and jurisdictions to evaluate 

their success in preventing adverse impacts from AIS. (Coord, AISAC) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

37

 2A2. Describe invasion pathways and identify high-risk waterbodies. (Coord, AISAC, 

University) 

 2A3. Develop a system for prioritizing AIS with the greatest threat of unintentional 

introduction. The EPA’s Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment, Generic 

Nonindigenous Aquatic Organisms Risk Analysis Process, and the Australian 

Weed Risk Assessment System represent potential models for ranking AIS. 

(Coord, AISAC, University) 

 2A4. Research invasiveness of aquatic plant species currently imported. (EMNRD, 

NMDA, APHIS, University) 

 2A5. Create a list of prohibited AIS for distribution to agencies, enforcement 

authorities, MUN, and WMD. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed) 

 2A6. Develop and implement an inspection program for trailered boats and waterbased equipment entering and traveling in New Mexico. (Coord, AISAC, 

EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDPS, NMDOT) 

 2A7. Establish a boat washing program to reduce AIS spread and investigate installing 

washing stations at public and tribal boat ramps. (Coord, AISAC, EMNRD, 

BoR, CoE, Tribes, USNPS, USFWS, Private [marinas]) 

 2A8. Work with importers to identify and monitor the potential for importation 

practices that could introduce AIS into uncontrolled environments. (Coord, 

AISAC, NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD, APHIS, Private) 

 2A9. Develop and implement a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point 

(HAACCP) planning strategy for hatchery, field, and survey crews to minimize 

the risk of unintentional hitchhiking AIS introductions. (Coord, AISAC, State, 

Tribes, Fed, Tribes, WMD) 

 2A10. Inform Governor, Legislature, and staff (administrators, managers, technical 

personnel) of agencies (state, federal, tribes, municipal), NGO, and private 

entities about AIS issues and pathways of introduction. (Coord, AISAC, State, 

Tribes, Fed) 

Strategy 2B: Increase enforcement and awareness of existing laws 

controlling the transport, propagation, sale, collection, possession, 

importation, purchase, cultivation, distribution, and introduction of 

AIS. 

 2B1. Identify existing authorities for regulations and permitting processes to prevent 

the introduction and spread of AIS, including gaps in current rules, regulations, 

and policies. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed) 

 2B2. Based on gaps identified in 2B1, fund expansion of State regulatory authorities to 

increase prevention, control, and eradication of AIS in New Mexico, as required 

by future needs assessment. (Gov, Leg) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

38

 2B3. Seek additional enforcement authority as needed to provide comprehensive 

permitting processes to prevent and control AIS introduction and spread. 

(Coord, AISAC, State [ENMRD, NMDGF, NMDA], Tribes) 

 2B4. Increase the priority for enforcing AIS laws. (All LE authorities: State, Tribes, 

Fed) 

 2B5. Train enforcement personnel on AIS identification, state regulations, and 

watercraft inspection and decontamination methods. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed) 

 2B6. Distribute information on AIS laws to businesses that import or sell aquatic 

organisms. (Coord, State [NMEDD], Tribes, Fed) 

 2B7. Increase awareness of existing penalties for the intentional introduction of any 

nonindigenous species to New Mexico’s waters. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, 

Fed) 

 2B8. Assess efficacy of existing AIS regulations and penalties and revise when 

necessary. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes) 

Strategy 2C: Promote legislation and regulations that establish or 

increase the state's authority to control the introduction of new species. 

 2C1. Establish the authority to stop, inspect, detain, and require cleaning of any 

vehicle, vessel or water-based equipment containing or infested with AIS that is 

traveling in New Mexico. (Gov, Leg, State, Tribes) 

 2C2. Increase the ability of the State to regulate the importation of aquatic organisms. 

(Gov, Leg, State, Tribes) 

 2C3. Establish the authority to quarantine waterbodies to prevent AIS from spreading 

and to contain AIS for future eradication. (Gov, Leg, State, Tribes) 

 2C4. Require risk management planning, such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control 

Point (HAACCP), be available to assess that intentionally imported organisms at 

risk of spreading AIS are free of diseases, parasites, and other unpermitted 

hitchhiking organisms. (Fed, EMNRD, NMDA, NMDGF, Tribes) 

 2C5. Develop or amend existing cooperative agreements with adjacent states, 

including Mexican states, sharing common waters to address AIS. (Gov, Leg, 

Coord, ISC, OSE, adjacent states [AZ, CO, KS, OK, TX, Chihuahua]). 

 2C6. Develop legislation and rules to prevent the introduction of AIS into private 

ponds, including increased authority to inspect ponds, remove AIS species and 

provide penalties for illegal introductions of AIS into private ponds. (Gov, Leg, 

State, Private) 

OBJECTIVE 3: DETECT, MONITOR, AND ERADICATE 

PIONEERING AIS. 

Problem Addressed: When an invasive species arrives there is often a window of 

opportunity to eradicate small pioneering populations before they become established or 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

39

expand beyond an isolated location. However, AIS are often not detected until nuisance 

populations are formed, or in some instances response times are delayed, allowing 

populations to increase rapidly. Usually, it is too late or too expensive to eradicate a 

species once it has reached a nuisance level, and when management is conducted after a 

population is well-established, costly long-term monitoring activities will be required to 

control the population and reduce economic and environmental impacts. 

By initiating a monitoring program and rapid response plan, the State will be able to 

detect and manage pioneering infestations at a point when the species can be eradicated 

in the most cost-effective manner. An effective monitoring program requires a 

cooperative network among stakeholders, supportive laws, and permanent funding. 

Current Agency Activities 

New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

NMDA conducts surveys for agricultural and invasive pests. The Department has the 

authority to quarantine water bodies and take measures to retard or prevent the spread of 

aquatic invasive plants within the state. 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

The NMDGF regulates the movement of non-domestic animals within and across the 

state boundary, and actively manages some naturalized AIS and pioneering populations 

that may affect native wildlife. By adopting a policy of “not-knowingly-stocking 

whirling disease positive fish,” the Fisheries Management Division has implemented a 

statewide monitoring program to track (GIS-based mapping) the status of this parasite in 

infested and uninfested salmonid populations, while also testing for presence of whirling 

disease in hatchery stock and in native and managed trout populations. Staff of the 

Nongame and Endangered Species Program, tasked with monitoring the conservation 

status of native aquatic fauna (crustaceans, mollusks, amphibian, reptiles, fish, birds, 

mammals), document and track some Priority Class 2 and 3 AIS, and actively manage 

their control (containment, eradication) and movement. Biologists and District Officers 

of the four Area Offices coordinate intra-agency field activities for AIS management 

activities (e.g., nonnative fish removal, golden algae monitoring) and enforce game and 

non-game laws and regulations promulgated under NMSA Chapter 17 pertaining to 

importation and movement of fish and wildlife. Water-based management activities on 

state wildlife areas require delivery systems free of AIS to insure efficient movement of 

water. NMDGF actively participates on the Rio Grande Basin Team, a working 

subgroup of the 100th Meridian Initiative, and annual meetings of the 100th Meridian 

Initiative and the Western Regional Panel. 

New Mexico Environment Department 

The Surface Water Quality Bureau conducts surveys to monitor water quality for factors 

that contribute to impairment and undesirable aquatic life [20.6.4.13 E NMAC]. These 

surveys include biological monitoring that could potentially address AIS concerns. See 

Standards for Interstate and Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC]. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

40

United States Fish and Wildlife Service 

In 2005 the New Mexico Fishery Resources Office, in collaboration with the Region 2 

ANS Coordinator, US Army Corps of Engineers and NM State Parks, initiated a zebra 

mussel monitoring program at three state parks (Conchas Lake, Heron Lake, Elephant 

Butte) and two sites on the Rio Chama. Site selection at that time was based on location 

to nearest confirmed ZM states (i.e., Oklahoma), propensity for high boater traffic and 

angler use, and unique boating opportunities (i.e., sail boating, bass tournaments). There 

is no confirmed report of ZM or QM in New Mexico waters. Notwithstanding, ZM are 

now (2008) reported in Colorado, approximately 90 miles north of the state line. Under 

the 100th Meridian Initiative, stakeholders from New Mexico and Colorado formed 

(2007) the Rio Grande Basin Team to: identify zebra/quagga mussel threats to Rio 

Grande resources, detect and monitor dreissenid veligers in Navajo Reservoir and 

mainstem impoundments within the basin, and develop a long-term strategy to prevent 

zebra/quagga mussel introduction into the basin. 

Gaps in State Monitoring and Eradication Programs and Authorities 

• Current AIS monitoring efforts are inadequate. 

• Authority to quarantine is not comprehensive for all potential AIS. 

• The authority and funding to quickly deal with new AIS is lacking. 

• Response time to an invasion is slow due to a lack of funding and contingency plans. 

• Surface water quality standards lack biological criteria for impairment due to AIS. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions 

Strategy 3A: Implement a surveillance and early detection program. 

 3A1. Identify high-risk water bodies. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, 

Universities) 

 3A2. Develop a monitoring and surveillance program for high-risk AIS as determined 

by the AISAC. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed) 

 3A3. Conduct annual monitoring and surveillance of high-risk water bodies and 

associated water delivery infrastructure(s). (State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD) 

 3A4. Encourage and train citizen-based monitoring networks to work in cooperation 

with state and federal agencies and tribal entities. (Coord, ASIAC, State, Tribes, 

Fed, NGO, Private) 

 3A5. Under the Standards for Interstate and Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC], 

develop criteria (human health, domestic water supply, and biological) for 

impairment of surface water quality due to undesirable aquatic life (AIS). (State 

[NMED, NMDGF]) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

41

Strategy 3B: Develop an early response mechanism to deal with 

detected and potential AIS. 

 3B1. Develop a Rapid Response Plan for AIS species. (Coord, AISAC) 

 3B2. Identify funding sources to implement Rapid Response Plan actions. (Coord, 

AISAC) 

 3B3. Implement Rapid Response Plan for AIS species. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, 

MUN, NGO, WMD, Private) 

 3B4. Develop targeted HAACCP plans to address the spread of AIS. (Coord, AISAC, 

State, Tribes, Fed) 

Strategy 3C: Eradicate pioneering populations of AIS. 

 3C1. Develop an eradication program for AIS in early stages of invasion. (Coord, 

AISAC) 

 3C2. Implement an eradication program for AIS in early stages of invasion. (Coord, 

AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, WMD) 

OBJECTIVE 4: WHERE FEASIBLE, CONTROL OR ERADICATE 

ESTABLISHED AIS THAT HAVE SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS. 

Problem Addressed: Once established AIS often create the most noticeable impacts, yet 

they are often impossible to eradicate or control. Management activities are most 

economically effective when they are directed at limiting the impacts of a population or 

stopping that population from spreading to new waterbodies. 

In situations where AIS have previously invaded, management activities must focus on 

situations where there is a clear and significant impact on local economies, native 

species, and where the control or eradication of specific populations is economically and 

technically feasible. 

Current Activities

New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

NMDA conducts surveys for agricultural and invasive pests and plants. The Department 

has the authority to quarantine water bodies and take measures to retard or prevent the 

spread of aquatic invasive plants within the state. 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

The NMDGF regulates the movement of non-domestic animals within and across the 

state boundary, and actively manages some naturalized and pioneering AIS populations 

that may affect native aquatic wildlife and important fisheries. Nonnative fish removal is 

practiced to protect native fish populations, endangered fishes, and important sport 

fisheries. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

42

Gaps in State Control and Eradication Programs and Authorities 

• No state agency has a clear program directed at controlling or eradicating AIS. 

• There is no AIS Coordinator to organize state efforts to control or eradicate AIS. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions 

Strategy 4A: Limit the dispersal of established AIS into new 

waterbodies or into new areas of a water body or drainage. 

 4A1. Establish a boat washing program to reduce AIS spread and investigate installing 

wash stations at public boat ramps (See 2A6). (Coord, State, Fed, Tribes) 

 4A2. Limit the spread of existing AIS, by reducing the access to existing populations 

through the use of warning signs, buoys, and possible closures in infested areas. 

(Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, Private) 

 4A3. Include AIS information on signs and kiosks at infested waterbodies. (Coord, 

State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD) 

Strategy 4B: Control known nuisance populations where economically 

and technically feasible. 

 4B1. Implement management programs to control Priority Class 2 and 3 species. 

(State [EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDA], Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD) 

OBJECTIVE 5: INCREASE AND DISSEMINATE KNOWLEDGE OF 

AIS IN NEW MEXICO THROUGH DATA COMPILATION AND 

RESEARCH. 

Problem Addressed: Little is known about the extent and magnitude of the AIS 

problem in New Mexico. In fact many more nonindigenous species probably occur in 

New Mexico than are recognized. First, it is essential to determine the extent of the AIS 

problem within the state. Information on the number, taxonomy, and distribution of AIS 

in New Mexico is spread currently across several data sources, often with inconsistencies, 

thus making it difficult to assess the situation. This information needs to be compiled and 

organized under one database that is readily and easily accessible to agency personnel 

and the public. A centralized “hotline” system for reporting the presence of AIS needs to 

be developed, which is coordinated with a rapid response system. Research should be 

implemented on the biology of AIS and their impacts on native species and habitats. 

Additionally, new methods of control and eradication for established AIS need to be 

pursued in coordination with other state and federal agencies, and research institutions. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

43

Current Agency Activities 

New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

The Department administers the Noxious Weed list. 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

Various divisions within the agency are engaged in AIS education and outreach. The 

Public Information and Outreach Division (PIO) disseminates AIS information and 

educational materials through state-federal match programs (Project Wild/Aquatic, 

Fishing Skills, Fisheries Monitoring/Watershed Watch) and Natural History Workshops 

designed as teacher enrichment opportunities. The PIO publishes press releases and 

articles on resource management concerns posed by AIS issues. Intra-agency efforts also 

include technical presentations to area staff and the public that address AIS, such as zebra 

mussels, nonnative fish, whirling disease, and golden alga. The BISON-M Species 

Lists/Species Accounts, developed by the NMDGF and currently administered by 

Conservation Management Institute of Virginia Tech, provides information on the 

biology and distribution of animals in New Mexico, including AIS. Other information 

for AIS is maintained within files of individual biologists regarding impacts to various 

species of protected wildlife. 

Federal Agencies 

Numerous federal agencies (e.g., USFWS, USGS, USDA) and other agencies compile 

lists of AIS, invasive species, and weeds. 

Gaps in State Programs and Authorities

• Incomplete knowledge of the number and distribution of AIS. 

• Poor understanding of the basic biology and impacts of AIS. 

• Management options are limited. 

• Limited funding is available to conduct research and management activities. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions 

Strategy 5A: Facilitate the collection and dispersal of information, 

research, and data on AIS in New Mexico. 

 5A1. Create and coordinate a central database and repository of information on AIS in 

New Mexico. (Coord, AISAC, University, Fed) 

 5A2. Build and maintain a database and a website on AIS in New Mexico which is 

coordinated with other relevant websites and agencies. (Coord, University, Fed) 

 5A3. Utilize existing field personnel to document the distribution and abundance of 

AIS. (State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, Private, WMD, University) 

 5A4. Develop and maintain a list of taxonomic experts for AIS identification which is 

coordinated with national and regional lists of experts. (Coord, AISAC) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

44

Strategy 5B: Research AIS for their impact on native biota utilizing 

regional efforts & literature searches. 

 5B1. Develop a better understanding of life histories and impacts of introduced aquatic 

plants and animals. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University) 

 5B2. Continue to monitor native aquatic biota, including species most likely to be 

impacted by AIS. (State, Tribes, Fed, University) 

 5B3. Evaluate the potential for aquarium pets, live food fish, hatchery stock, and 

shellfish to serve as vectors of disease and parasites to humans and native 

aquatic wildlife. (Coord, State [NMHD], Tribes, Fed, University) 

Strategy 5C: Research alternative management techniques for their 

effect on AIS and native species. 

 5C1. Investigate the relationship between human-induced disturbance of aquatic and 

riparian systems and AIS invasion, establishment, and impacts. (Coord, State, 

Tribes, Fed, University) 

 5C2. Investigate and develop new and innovative methods of managing AIS. (Coord, 

State, Tribes, Fed, University) 

 5C3. Evaluate herbicide and pesticide effects. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University) 

 

OBJECTIVE 6: INFORM THE PUBLIC, POLICY MAKERS, NATURAL 

RESOURCE WORKERS, PRIVATE INDUSTRY, AND USER GROUPS 

ABOUT THE RISKS AND IMPACTS OF AIS. 

Problem Addressed: The lack of awareness concerning AIS impacts is one of the 

largest management obstacles. Few people understand the threat alien species pose and 

the role humans play in the transport and introduction of invasives. Uninformed people, 

through the dumping of an aquarium or a bait bucket, launching of a contaminated boat, 

or stocking of a private pond, have introduced and spread many AIS. The improper 

importation and holding of organisms has allowed species to escape, or caused the receipt 

of unwanted organisms mixed in with intentionally imported ones. Many policymakers, 

natural resource administrators, and private interest groups have facilitated the intentional 

introductions of species for certain economic or recreational purposes without 

understanding the effects these species would have on native species. Introductions, 

either intentional or unintentional, can be eliminated or curtailed by educating people of 

their potential to transfer nonindigenous species to New Mexico. It is not only important 

to prevent the spread of AIS species within the state, but also prevent the spread 

throughout shared drainages with adjacent states. New Mexico shares six major 

hydrologic units (Arkansas River, Upper Colorado River, Lower Colorado River [Gila], 

Pecos River, Rio Grande, and Texas Gulf) with adjacent states. Each of these drainages 

harbors unique biotas and aquatic communities. The potential spread of AIS within and 

among these basins can adversely affect native biota, ecosystems, and regional 

economies. It is critical to inform people about the risks and impacts of AIS. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

45

Current Agency Activities 

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and State Parks (EMNRD) 

NMDGF and EMNRD, working in collaboration with the USFWS, have posted “Stop 

Aquatic Hitchhikers” signage (boat ramp, stream fishing) at public access points on state 

and federal lands, and each agency distributes bait bucket bumper stickers and “Watch 

Cards” for zebra mussels and New Zealand mudsnails. NMDGF has included the “Stop 

Aquatic Hitchhikers” message in the 2008 “New Mexico Fishing Rules & Regulations.” 

Gaps in State Education Programs and Authorities 

• AIS are not addressed as an issue per se. 

• AIS education and outreach has not garnered the attention of legislators, 

policymakers, and government administrators. 

• Insufficient AIS information is disseminated to the public. 

• Few natural resource workers have the training to identify AIS. 

• Little information is provided to agency and private personnel about AIS. 

• Few efforts involve potentially interested citizens in AIS issues. 

Recommended Strategies and Actions 

Strategy 6A: Inform the public about AIS, and how their actions can 

help prevent the spread and reduce the impacts of AIS. 

 6A1. Incorporate AIS information into boat operator and hunter and angler education 

classes. (NMDGF, EMNRD) 

 6A2. Create an educational curriculum on AIS for schools. (Coord, AISAC, State 

[NMPED], Tribes) 

 6A3. Create an “AIS Traveling Trunk” modeled after NMDGF’s “Wildlife Trunks” or 

the University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program’s “Zebra Mussel Mania 

Traveling Trunk.” (Coord, AISAC, NMDGF, EMNRD) 

 6A4. Produce press releases and public service announcements (PSAs) on specific 

AIS. (Coord, AISAC, State [NMEDD], Tribes, Fed) 

 6A5. Create articles, videos, billboards, a Traveler Information System (TIS), webbased media and identification cards concerning AIS. Expand on the current 

“Watch Card” system. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed) 

 6A6. Distribute information on AIS at various state museums, conferences, shows, 

tournaments, public gatherings, and sporting goods vendors. (Coord, State 

[NMEDD, NMTD], Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, Private, WMD) 

 6A7. Include information on AIS in state hunting, fishing, and boating regulations. 

(NMDGF, EMNRD) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

46

 6A8. Develop a “New Mexico Friendly” plant labeling system in conjunction with the 

nursery industry. (Coord, NMDA, EMNRD) 

 6A9. Inform policymakers on the extent, impact, and potential for harm of AIS. 

(Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO) 

 6A10. Expand statewide participation and partnerships by networking with national 

public education campaigns (Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers, Protect Your Waters, 

HabitattitudeTM) to increase awareness of AIS issues, to disseminate educational 

material, and to foster responsible management of unwanted pets. (Coord, 

AISAC, EMNRD, NMDGF, NMED, NGO, Private) 

 6A11. Develop working relationships with sporting groups and conservation 

organizations to foster outreach and educational activities relating to AIS, 

including providing information, training, and incentives for AIS-related 

activities which help prevent the spread of AIS. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, 

Fed, NGO, Private) 

 

Strategy 6B: Train natural resources personnel in AIS identification. 

 6B1. Conduct identification seminars for field personnel of state, federal, tribal, and 

municipal governments. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University) 

Strategy 6C: Inform private industry on AIS identification, their effects, 

and the laws regulating them. 

 6C1. Create and distribute pamphlets for the nursery industry, pet stores, bait dealers 

and other relevant businesses identifying AIS, the laws regulating them, and 

their effects in natural systems. (Coord, State [NMDGF, NMEDD, NMDA], 

Fed) 

 6C2. Provide information on AIS to fishing tournament organizers. (Coord, NMDGF, 

EMNRD, Fed) 

 6C3. Identify and provide AIS information to all other persons or businesses operating 

on water bodies. (Coord, State [EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD], Tribes, 

Fed, Private)
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

47

IMPLEMENTATION TABLE 

The following table identifies tasks and responsibilities of stakeholders. Funding required to carryout the propos

determined in conjunction with assessments from cooperating State and Federal agencies. Funds for implementi

be administered by the Coord as a member of the AISAC. Although all actions identified in the NMPlan are impthe AISAC and funding to support the Coord are critical to effective AIS management in New Mexico. The Cooadditional funding to implement other elements of the NMPlan. This model has proven effective in the state of W

under development in Arizona and implementation in Oregon. 

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

Objective 1: Coordinate and implement a comprehensive management plan. 

Strategy 1A: Coordinate all AIS management programs and activities within New Mexico 1A1 Organize AISAC 

Gov, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private, MUN, WMD 

State - USFWS - - - State 

1A2 Create & fund Coord Gov, Leg, AISAC, State, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 1A3 Identify & coordinate with federal, tribal & private support staff Gov, Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private, MN, WMD State 0 0 0 0 1A4 AIS list Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - 0 0 0 1A5 AIS terms & definitions Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - 0 0 0 1A6 AIS training course Coord, AISAC, Fed See 1A2, State - USFWS - - - 1A7 AIS assessment guidelines Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - 1A8 Annual forum Coord, AISAC, Fed State - USFWS State Strategy 1B: Participate in and support regional, federal, and international efforts to control AIS. 1B1 Western Regional Panel Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - USFWS - - - See 1A2, State 1B2 100th Meridian Initiative Gov, Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - USFWS - - - See 1A2, State 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

48

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

1B3 Interstate & Mexican coordination Gov, Coord, AISAC, NMBA, ISC, OSE See 1A2, State - See 1A2, State Strategy 1C: Increase existing funding resources for AIS management and establish new funding and resources. 1C1 Pursue stable funding Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes State 1C2 Develop private partnerships Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO See 1A1 & 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 Strategy 1D: Review and evaluate State efforts addressing AIS. 1D1 Assess AIS status 

Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, MWD 

State - USFWS - - - State 

1D2 Update NMPlan Coord, AISAC See 1A1 & 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 

Object 1: Totals 

Objective 2: Prevent the introduction of AIS into New Mexico. 

Strategy 2A: Research and address potential AIS and their pathways of introduction. 2A1 Review existing AIS programs Coord, AISC State - USFWS 2A2 Invasion pathways & high-risk waterbodies Coord, AISAC, University State - USFWS - - - State 2A3 AIS ranking system Coord, AISAC, University State 2A4 Research imported plants EMNRD, NMDA, APHIS, University State - APHIS - - - State 2A5 Prohibited AIS list Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - State 2A6 Boat inspection program Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - State 2A7 Boat wash stations 

AISAC, EMNRD, BoR, CoE, Tribes, USFWS, USNPS, Private (marinas) 

State - Federal Agencies - - - State 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

49

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

2A8 Work with importers 

Coord, AISAC, NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD, APHIS, Private 

State - State 

2A9 Field personnel plan Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, WMD State - State 2A10 Inform agency & organization staff Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - Federal Agencies State Strategy 2B: Increase enforcement and awareness of existing laws controlling the transport, propagation, sale, collection, poss

purchase, cultivation, distribution, and introduction of AIS. 

2B1 Identify regulations & permitting authorities Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes State - USFWS - - - State 2B2 Expand state permitting program Gov, Leg State - USFWS - - - State 2B3 Seek additional permitting authority 

Coord, AISAC, State (EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDA), Tribes 

State - USFWS - - - State 

2B4 AIS law enforcement All LE authorities: State, Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 2B5 Train enforcement personnel Coord, State, Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 2B6 Distribute information to importers Coord, State (NMEDD), Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 2B7 Publicize penalties Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - State 2B8 Examine regulations & penalties Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes Strategy 2C: Promote legislation and regulatory rules that establish or increase the state's authority to control the introductio2C1 Authority to detain Gov, Leg, State, Tribes 2C2 Increase import regulation Gov, Leg, State, Tribes 2C3 Authority to quarantine Gov, Leg, State, Tribes 2C4 Disease & pest free imports EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDA, Tribes 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

50

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

2C5 Interstate & Mexican cooperative agreements 

Gov, Leg, Coord, ISC, OSE, AZ, CO, KS, OK, TX, Chihuahua 

2C6 Legislation to prevent AIS introduction to private ponds Gov, Leg, State, Private 

Object 2: Totals 

Objective 3: Detect and eradicate pioneering aquatic invasive species. 

Strategy 3A: Implement a surveillance and early detection program. 3A1 Identify high-risk waterbodies 

Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Universities 

State - USFWS - - - State 

3A2 Develop monitoring/surveillance program Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed 3A3 Conduct monitoring/surveillance of high-risk waterbodies & water delivery systems State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, MWD 3A4 Encourage citizen-based monitoring 

Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private 

State - USFWS - - - State 

3A5 

Develop criteria for impairment of surface water quality standards due to undesirable aquatic life (AIS) 

State (NMED, NMDGF) State - USFWS - - - State 

Strategy 3B: Develop an early response mechanism to deal with detected and potential AIS. 3B1 Develop Rapid Response Plan Coord, AISAC State - USFWS - - - State 3B2 Identify funding for Rapid Response Plan Coord, AISAC See 1A1 & 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 3B3 Implement Rapid Response Plan 

Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, WMD, Private 

State - USFWS - - - State 

3B4 Develop HAACCP plans Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State Strategy 3C: Eradicate pioneering populations of AIS. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

51

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

3C1 Develop eradication program for pioneering AIS Coord, AISAC State - USFWS - - - State 3C2 Implement eradication program for pioneering AIS Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, WMD State - USFWS - - - State 

Object 3: Totals 

Objective 4: Where feasible, control or eradicate established AIS that have a significant im

Strategy 4A: Limit the dispersal of established AIS into new waterbodies or into new areas of a waterbody or drainage. 4A1 Boat wash stations Coord, AISAC, State, Fed, Tribes State - Federal Agencies - - - State 4A2 Limit access to AIS populations Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, Private State - Federal Agencies - - - State 4A3 AIS information & signage Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD State - Federal Agencies - - - State Strategy 4B: Limit the dispersal of established AIS to new waterbodies or to new areas of a waterbody. 4B1 Control Priority Class 2 & 3 AIS 

State (EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDA), Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD 

State - USFWS - - - State 

Object 4: Totals 

Objective 5: Increase knowledge of AIS in New Mexico through compiling data and conductin

Strategy 5A: Facilitate the collection and dispersal of information, research, and data on AIS in New Mexico. 5A1 Create AIS database & reference material repository Coord, AISAC, University, Fed State - USGS - - - State 5A2 Maintain AIS database & website Coord, University, Fed State - USGS - - - State 5A3 Document AIS distribution & abundance 

State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, WMD, Private, University 

State See 1A3 - 

Federal Agencies - - - 

State See 1A3 

5A4 Maintain list of AIS taxonomic experts Coord, AISAC - - - - 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

52

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

Strategy 5B: Research AIS for their impact on native biota utilizing regional efforts & literature searches. 5B1 AIS life history & impact Coord, State, Fed, Tribes, University State - USFWS - - - State 5B2 Continue monitoring native aquatic biota State, Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State 5B3 Evaluate AIS as vectors (disease, parasites) Coord, State (NMHD), Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State Strategy 5C: Research management alternatives for their effect on AIS and native species. 5C1 Investigate AIS & anthropogenic relationships Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State 5C2 New AIS management methods Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State 5C3 Herbicide & pesticide effects Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State 

Object 5: Totals 

Objective 6: Inform the public, policy makers, natural resource workers, private industry, and user gro

and impacts of AIS. 

Strategy 6A: Inform the public about AIS, and how their actions can help prevent the spread and reduce the impacts of AIS. 6A1 Include AIS information in hunter/boater classes NMDGF, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State 6A2 Education curriculum Coord, AISAC, State (NMPED), Tribes State - USFWS - - - State 6A3 AIS Traveling Trunk Coord, AISAC, NMGF, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State 6A4 Press releases & PSAs Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 6A5 Produce articles, videos, billboards, TIS, web media, AIS ID cards Coord, AISAC, State (NMEDD), Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

53

Objectives/Actions Funding (in thousands) and Personnel Requ

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

# Description 

Implementing 

Organization Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

6A6 Distribute AIS information 

Coord, State (NMEDD, NMTD), Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, Private, WMD 

State - USFWS - - - State 

6A7 Include AIS information in hunting, fishing & boating regulations NMDGF, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State 6A8 Develop "NM Friendly" plant labeling system Coord, NMDA, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State 6A9 In form decision makers about AIS Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO 6A10 Network with aquatic education programs 

Coord, AISAC, EMNRD, NMDGF, NMED, NGO, Private 

State - USFWS - - - State 

6A11 Foster outreach with sporting & conservation organizations Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private Strategy 6B: Train natural resources personnel in AIS identification. 6B1 AIS Identification seminars Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University State - USFWS - - - State Strategy 6C: Inform private industry in AIS identification, their effects, and the laws regulating them. 6C1 Nursery, pet store and bait dealer pamphlets Coord, State (NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD), Fed State - USFWS - - - State 6C2 Provide information at fishing tournaments Coord, NMDGF, EMNRD, Fed State - USFWS - - - State 6C3 Distribute AIS information to others Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, Private State - USFWS - - - State 

Object 6: Totals 

FY 09 

State and Other 

Funds 

Federal 

Funds Totals 

State and Other 

Funds 

Agency $ Agency $ $ FTE Agency 

NMPlan Totals 

 - - - - 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

54

PROGRAM MONITORING AND EVALUATION 

The strategies outlined in the NMPlan will generate actions to achieve desired future 

conditions and outcomes. A necessary step in the implementation of this plan will be 

program monitoring and evaluation of performance indicators referable to the goal and 

objectives of the NMPlan. To support and inform implementation of this plan, it is 

recommended that the AISAC adopt a philosophy of adaptive management in which 

monitoring and evaluation are employed to measure progress toward achieving the goal, 

to assess the efficacy of prioritized strategies to meet the stated objectives, and to 

maintain awareness of and adapt to changing information or conditions. Program 

monitoring and evaluation will require oversight, evaluation and reporting. 

 

Oversight 

The AISAC will be responsible for coordinating the oversight process to inform all 

stakeholders of the progress towards implementing the plan. The role of AISAC will be 

to examine the level of achievement on tasks identified in the prioritized strategic actions 

(see AIS Management Strategy). 

Evaluation 

To afford an objective evaluation process, performance indicators may be required that 

not only examine progress, but also identify funding needs to successfully implement the 

plan. Evaluation should also incorporate information from those groups or individuals 

that will be affected by plan implementation. The evaluation process may also require 

revisions to the NMPlan, which will be the shared responsibility of the Coordinator and 

the ASIAC. 

Reporting 

The Coordinator and the AISAC will prepare and disseminate an annual progress report 

to all stakeholders. This report will include an evaluation of success towards achieving 

the goal and stated objectives of the NMPlan. 

The Coordinator and the AISAC will prepare and disseminate a 5-year AIS program 

status report to all stakeholders. This plan will inform stakeholders of the progress of 

plan implementation, program needs, and future directions relative to adjacent states and 

regional planning efforts.
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

55

GLOSSARY 

Accidental introduction: an unintended introduction made as a result of a species 

utilizing humans or human delivery systems as vectors for dispersal outside its natural 

range. 

Aquatic invasive (or nuisance) species: a nonnative species whose introduction into an 

aquatic ecosystem causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or 

human health or safety. 

Alga (singular; algae, plural): a group of aquatic, photosynthetic organisms ranging 

from unicellular to multicellular forms, and generally possess chlorophyll but lack true 

roots, stems and leave characteristic of terrestrial plants.

Baitfish: fish species commonly sold for use as bait for recreational fishing. 

Biocontrol: the use of living organisms, such as predators, parasites, and pathogens, to 

control pest insects, weeds, or diseases. 

Control: suppressing, reducing, or managing invasive species populations, preventing 

spread of invasive species from areas where they are present. 

Ecological integrity: the extent to which an ecosystem has been altered by human 

behavior; an ecosystem with minimal impact from human activity has a high level of 

integrity; an ecosystem that has been substantially altered by human activity has a low 

level of integrity. 

Ecosystem: the biological organisms in an ecological community and the non-living 

factors of the environment. 

Environmentally sound techniques: methods, efforts, actions, or programs to prevent 

introductions or to control infestations of AIS that minimize adverse environmental 

impacts (The impact of management actions should be less than the impact of the AIS.). 

Eradicate (extirpate): the act or process of eliminating an invasive species. 

Intentional introduction: an introduction made deliberately by humans, involving the 

purposeful movement of a species outside of its natural range and dispersal potential. 

(Such introductions may be authorized or unauthorized.) 

Introduction: the movement, by human agency, of a species, subspecies, or lower taxon 

(including any part, gametes or propagule that might survive and subsequently reproduce) 

outside its natural range (past or present). This movement can be either within or between 

political entities (e.g., country or state). 

Native species (indigenous): means a species, subspecies, or lower taxon, occurring 

within its natural range (past or present) and dispersal potential (i.e. within the range it 

occupies naturally or could occupy without direct or indirect introduction or care by 

humans.) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

56

Nonnative species: (alien, nonindigenous, foreign, exotic) a species, subspecies, or 

lower taxon occurring outside of its natural range (past or present) and dispersal potential 

(i.e. outside the range it occupies naturally or could not occupy without direct or indirect 

introduction or care by humans) and includes any part, gametes or propagule of such 

species that might survive and subsequently reproduce. 

Pathogen: a microbe or other organism that causes disease. 

Pioneer infestation: a small AIS colony that has spread to a new area from an 

established colony. 

Waterbody: any specified area of water, including springs, ponds, lakes, reservoirs, 

streams, rivers, canals, and irrigation ditches. 

Watershed: an entire drainage basin including all living and nonliving components. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

57

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of Mines & Minerals. Hydrologic Report 4. 79 pp. 

Taylor, C.A., M.L. Warren, Jr., J.F. Fitzpatrick, Jr., H.H. Hobbs III, R.F. Jezerinac, W.L. 

Pflieger, and H. W. Robison. 1996. Conservation status of crayfishes in the United 

States and Canada. Fisheries 21(4):25-38. 

Taylor, C.A., G.A. Shuster, J. E. Cooper, R. DiStefano, A.G. Eversole, P. Hamr, H.H. 

Hobbs III, H.W. Robison, C. E. Skelton, and R.E. Thoma. 2007. A reassessment of 

the conservation status of crayfishes in the United States and Canada after 10+ years 

of increased awareness. Fisheries 32(8):372-389. 

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005a. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) information 

resource. http://www.nas.er.usgs.gov/ 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

62

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005b. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) information 

resource. http://salvinia.er.usgs.gov/html/predicted_range.html 

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005c. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) information 

resource. http://www.salvinia.er.usgs.gov/html/news_and_notes.html 

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005d. Fisheries and Aquatics Bulletin, Fisheries: Aquatic and 

Endangered Resources (FAER) Program. Volume IV, Issue 1, Spring. 

Utah Department of Agriculture. 1997. Aquaculture Newsletter, Fish Health Program. 

http://www.ag.utah.gov/animind/aqnews2.html 

Warren, M.L., Jr. and Burr, B.M. 1994. Status of freshwater fishes of the United States: 

overview of an imperiled fauna. Fisheries 19:6-18. 

Williams, E.H. Jr., L. Bunkley-Williams, C.G. Lilyestrom, and E.A.R. Ortiz-Corps. 

2001. A review of recent introductions of aquatic invertebrates in Puerto Rico and 

implications for the management of nonindigenous species. Caribbean Journal of 

Science 37:246-251. 

Zohrabian A., Meltzer M.I., R. Ratard, K. Billah, N.A. Molinari, K. Roy, et al. 2004. 

West Nile Virus economic impact, Louisiana, 2002. Emerging Infectious Diseases 

(serial on the Internet). http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol10no10/03-0925.htm 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

63

APPENDICES 

Appendix – A 

LIST OF PRIORITY AIS FOR NEW MEXICO 

Priority Class 1 (see definition above)

Giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) 

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) 

VHS virus (viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus) 

Quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) 

Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) 

Red-rim melania (Melanoides tuberculatus) 

New Zealand mudsnail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) 

Channeled (Golden) applesnail (Pomacea spp.) 

Tilapia (Oreochromis spp., Sarotherodon sp., Tilapia spp.) 

Asian Carps (Bighead, Black, Silver, Largescale Silver) 

Priority Class 2 

Whirling Disease (Myxobolus cerebralis) 

Asian fish tapeworm (Bothriocephalus acheilognathi) 

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) 

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) 

Nutria (Myocastor coypus) 

Priority Class 3 

Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) 

Didymo or rocksnot (alga) (Didymosphenia geminata) 

Golden alga (Prymnesium parvum) 

Arundo (Arundo donax), Brazilian waterweed (Egeria densa), Parrotfeather 

(Myriophyllum aquaticum), Eurasian watermilfoil (M. spicatum), Curly pondweed 

(Potamogeton crispus) and other aquatic nonindigenous plants 

Nonnative crayfish (Orconectes spp., Procambarus clarkii) 

Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) 

Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) 

Priority Class 4 

Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) 

Australian crayfish (Family Parastacidae) 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

64

Appendix – B 

LIST OF AQUATIC NONNATIVE SPECIES 

REPORTED FROM NEW MEXICO 

This list of aquatic nonnative species reported from New Mexico is derived primarily 

from the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) information database, NMDGF 

BISON-M list, agency reports, and the published literature. Taxa listed below reflect 

records of single specimens, established populations, eradicated populations, failed 

stocking attempts or introductions, and greenhouse occurrences. The table is organized 

by broad taxonomic categories. Species and subspecies within a category are 

alphabetized by scientific name. An “X” inserted in species names indicates a hybrid 

taxon. The “origin” of these species is modeled after terminology in McCann (1984) but 

modified here as: nonnative (NN)−any species (alien, nonindigenous, foreign, exotic; see 

Glossary) introduced to New Mexico by humans from another state or foreign land; 

transplanted (T)−any native species moved within the state by humans into an ecosystem 

outside their natural range. This list is a preliminary effort and will be updated and 

modified with new information. 

Common Name Scientific Name Source* Origin†

PLANT 

Arundo Arundo donax 9 NN 

Brazilian waterweed Egeria densa 1 NN 

Hydrilla Hydrilla verticillata 9 NN 

Parrot-feather Myriophyllum aquaticum 1 NN 

Eurasian watermilfoil Myriophyllum spicatum 1 NN 

Water-cress Nasturtium officinale 1 NN 

Curly pondweed Potamogeton crispus 1 NN 

Golden alga Prymnesium parvum 4 NN? 

Purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria 3 NN 

COELENTRATE – HYDROZOAN 

Freshwater jellyfish Craspedacusta sowerbyii 1 NN 

CRUSTACEAN – COPEPOD 

Calanoid copepod Eurytemora affinis 1 NN 

CRUSTACEAN – CRAYFISH 

Calico crayfish Orconectes immunis 4 NN 

Rusty crayfish Orconectes rusticus 1,2 NN 

Northern crayfish Orconectes virilis 1,2 T 

Red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii 1,2 NN 

MOLLUSK – BIVALVE 

Asian clam Corbicula fluminea 1,2 NN 

Giant floater Pyganodon grandis 5 NN 

Paper pondshell Utterbackia imbecillis 5 T 

MOLLUSK – GASTROPOD 

Big-ear radix Radix auricularia 1 NN 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

65

FISH 

Inland silverside Menidia beryllina 1,2 NN 

White sucker Catostomus commersoni 1 NN 

Rio Grande sucker Catostomus plebeius 1 T 

Rock bass Ambloplites rupestris 1,2 NN 

Green sunfish Lepomis cyanellus 1 T 

Warmouth Lepomis gulosus 1,2 NN 

Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus 1 T 

Longear sunfish Lepomis megalotis 1 T 

Redear sunfish Lepomis microlophus 1 NN 

Smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu 1,2 NN 

Spotted bass Micropterus punctulatus 1,2 NN 

Largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides 1 T 

Pacu Piaractus sp. 7 NN 

Striped Rafael’s catfish Platydoras costatus 7 NN 

White crappie Pomoxis annularis 1,2 NN 

Black crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus 1,2 NN 

Mexican tetra Astyanax mexicanus 1 T? 

Tilapia Oreochromis, Sarotherodon, Tilapia sp. 1,2 NN 

Gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum 1 T 

Threadfin shad Dorosoma petenense 1,2 NN 

Zebra danio Brachydanio rerio 1,2 NN 

Central stoneroller Campostoma anomalum 1,2 NN 

Goldfish Carassius auratus 1 NN 

Grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella 1,2 NN 

Red shiner Cyprinella lutrensis 1 T 

Common carp Cyprinus carpio 1,2 NN 

Rio Grande chub Gila pandora 1 T 

Plains minnow Hybognathus placitus 1 T 

Golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas 1,2 NN 

Arkansas River shiner Notropis girardi 1 T 

Suckermouth minnow Phenacobius mirabilis 1 T 

Fathead minnow Pimephales promelas 1 T 

Bullhead minnow Pimephales vigilax 1,2 NN 

Flathead chub Platygobio gracilis 1 T 

Longfin dace Agosia chrysogaster 1 T 

Speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus 1 T 

Tench Tinca tinca 1,2 NN 

Sheepshead minnow Cyprinodon variegatus 1 NN 

Northern pike Esox lucius 1,2 NN 

Gulf killifish Fundulus grandis 1 NN 

Plains killifish Fundulus zebrinus 1 T 

Rainwater killifish Lucania parva 1 T 

Brook stickleback Culaea inconstans 1,2 NN 

Sargo Anisotremus davidsonii 1,2 NN 

Black bullhead Ameiurus melas 1 T 

Yellow bullhead Ameiurus natalis 1,2 NN 

Brown bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus 1 NN 

Blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus 1 T 

Channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus 1 T 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

66

Flathead catfish Pylodictis olivaris 1 T 

White bass Morone chrysops 1,2 NN 

Wiper Morone chrysops x saxatilis 1 NN 

Striped bass Morone saxatilis 1,2 NN 

Yellow perch Perca flavescens 1,2 NN 

Bigscale logperch Percina macrolepida 1 T 

Walleye Stizostedion vitreum 1,2 NN 

Mosquitofish, western Gambusia affinis 1 T 

Pecos gambusia Gambusia nobilis 1 T 

Sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna 1,2 NN 

Guppy Poecilia reticulata 1,2 NN 

Cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii 1,2 NN 

Snake River cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii carmichaeli 1 NN 

Rio Grande cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii virginalis 1 T 

Cutbow trout Oncorhynchus clarkii x mykiss 1 NN 

Gila trout Oncorhynchus gilae 1 T or ? 

Coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch 1,2 NN 

Rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss 1,2 NN 

Kokanee Oncorhynchus nerka 1,2 NN 

Landlocked Atlantic salmon Salmo salar sebago 1 NN 

Brown trout Salmo trutta 1,2 NN 

Brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis 1,2 NN 

Dolly Varden Salvelinus malma 1 NN 

Lake trout Salvelinus namaycush 1,2 NN 

Arctic grayling Thymallus arcticus 1 NN 

Bairdiella Bairdiella icistia 1 NN 

Spotted seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus 1 NN 

Orangemouth corvina Cynoscion xanthulus 1 NN 

Black drum Pogonias cromis 1 NN 

Red drum Sciaenops ocellatus 1 NN 

AMPHIBIAN 

Bullfrog Rana catesbeiana 8 NN 

Green frog Rana clamitans 2 T or ? 

REPTILE 

Snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina 1 T 

Malayan snail-eating turtle Malayemys subtrijuga 1 NN 

Red-eared slider Trachemys scripta elegans 1 T 

Yellow-bellied slider Trachemys scripta scripta 1 NN 

Texas spiny softshell Apalone spinifera emoryi 1 T 

MAMMAL 

Nutria Myocastor coypus 2 NN 

* - Source codes: 1 - USGS NAS; 2 - NMDGF BISON-M; 3 – Cox 2001; 4 – NMDGF files; 5 – Lang and 

Mehlhop (1996); 6 – Courtenay et al. (1984); 7 – UNM, Museum of Southwestern Biology, Division of 

Fishes; 8 – Degenhardt et al. (1996); 9 – Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District files 

†

 - Origin codes: NN – alien, nonindigenous, foreign, exotic; T – native transplant within New Mexico. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

67

Appendix – C 

SECTION 1204 OF 

THE NATIONAL INVASIVE SPECIES ACT OF 1996 

SEC. 1204. STATE AQUATIC NUISANCE SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLANS. 

(a) STATE OR INTERSTATE INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLANS— 

(1) IN GENERAL -- After providing notice and opportunity for public comment, the 

Governor of each State may prepare and submit, or the Governors of the States and the 

governments of Indian Tribes involved in an interstate organization, may jointly prepare 

and submit— 

(A) a comprehensive management plan to the Task Force for approval which 

identifies those areas or activities within the State or within the interstate region 

involved, other than those related to public facilities, for which technical, 

enforcement, or financial assistance (or any combination thereof) is needed to 

eliminate or reduce the environmental, public health, and safety risk associated with 

aquatic nuisance species, particularly the zebra mussel; and 

(B) a public facility management plan to the Assistant Secretary for approval 

which is limited solely to identifying those public facilities within the State or within 

the interstate region involved for which technical and financial assistance is needed to 

reduce infestations of zebra mussels. 

(2) CONTENT -- Each plan shall, to the extent possible, identify the management 

practices and measures that will be undertaken to reduce infestations of aquatic nuisance 

species. Each plan shall— 

(A) identify and describe State and local programs for environmentally sound 

prevention and control of the target aquatic nuisance species; 

(B) identify Federal activities that may be needed for environmentally sound 

prevention and control of aquatic nuisance species and a description of the manner in 

which those activities should be coordinated with State and local government 

activities; 

(C) identify any authority that the State (or any State or Indian Tribe involved in 

the interstate organization) does not have at the time of the development of the plan 

that may be necessary for the State (or any State or Indian Tribe involved in the 

interstate organization) protect public health, property, and the environment from 

harm by aquatic nuisance species; and 

(D) a schedule of implementing the plan, including a schedule of annual 

objectives, and enabling legislation. 

(3) CONSULTATION — 

(A) In developing and implementing a management plan, the State or interstate 

organization should, to the maximum extent practicable, involve local governments 

and regional entities, Indian Tribes, and public and private organizations that have 

expertise in the control of aquatic nuisance species. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

68

(B) Upon the request of a State or the appropriate official of an interstate 

organization, the Task Force or the Assistant Secretary, as appropriate under 

paragraph (1), may provide technical assistance in developing and implementing a 

management plan. 

(4) PLAN APPROVAL -- Within 90 days after the submission of a management plan, 

the Task Force or the Assistant Secretary in consultation with the Task Force, as 

appropriate under paragraph (1), shall review the proposed plan and approve it if it meets 

the requirements of this subsection or return the plan to the Governor or the interstate 

organization with recommended modifications. 

(b) GRANT PROGRAM — 

(1) STATE GRANTS -- The Director may, at the recommendation of the Task Force, 

make grants to States with management plans approved under subsection (a) for the 

implementation of those plans. 

(2) APPLICATION -- An application for a grant under this subsection shall include 

an identification and description of the best management practices and measures which 

the State proposes to utilize in implementing an approved management plan with any 

Federal assistance to be provided under the grant. 

(3) FEDERAL SHARE — 

(A) The Federal share of the cost of each comprehensive management plan 

implemented with Federal assistance under this section in any fiscal year shall not 

exceed 75 percent of the cost incurred by the State in implementing such 

management program and the non–Federal share of such costs shall be provided 

from non–Federal sources. 

(B) The Federal share of the cost of each public facility management plan 

implemented with Federal assistance under this section in any fiscal year shall not 

exceed 50 percent of the cost incurred by the State in implementing such 

management program and the non–Federal share of such costs shall be provided 

from non–Federal sources. 

(4) ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS -- For the purposes of this section, 

administrative costs for activities and programs carried out with a grant in any fiscal year 

shall not exceed 5 percent of the amount of the grant in that year. 

(5) IN–KIND CONTRIBUTIONS -- In addition to cash outlays and payments, 

in–kind contributions of property or personnel services by non–Federal interests for 

activities under this section may be used for the non–Federal share of the cost of those 

activities. 

(c) ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE -- Upon request of a State or Indian Tribe, the 

Director or Under Secretary, to the extent allowable by law and in a manner consistent 

with section 141 of title 14, United States Code, may provide assistance to a State or 

Indian Tribe in enforcing an approved State or interstate invasive species management 

plan. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

69

Appendix – D 

EXECUTIVE ORDER 13112 

Executive Order 13112 of February 3, 1999 

Invasive Species 

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United 

States of America, including the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended 

(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act 

of 1990, as amended (16 U.S.C. 4701 et seq.), Lacey Act, as amended (18 U.S.C. 42), 

Federal Plant Pest Act (7 U.S.C. 150aa et seq.), Federal Noxious Weed Act of 1974, as 

amended (7 U.S.C. 2801 et seq.), Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 

U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), and other pertinent statutes, to prevent the introduction of invasive 

species and provide for their control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and 

human health impacts that invasive species cause, it is ordered as follows: 

Section 1. Definitions. 

(a)"Alien species" means, with respect to a particular ecosystem, any species, including 

its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biological material capable of propagating that 

species, that is not native to that ecosystem. 

(b) "Control" means, as appropriate, eradicating, suppressing, reducing, or managing 

invasive species populations, preventing spread of invasive species from areas where 

they are present, and taking steps such as restoration of native species and habitats to 

reduce the effects of invasive species and to prevent further invasions. 

(c) "Ecosystem" means the complex of a community of organisms and its environment. 

(d) "Federal agency" means an executive department or agency, but does not include 

independent establishments as defined by 5 U.S.C. 104. (e) "Introduction" means the 

intentional or unintentional escape, release, dissemination, or placement of a species 

into an ecosystem as a result of human activity. 

(f) "Invasive species" means an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause 

economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. 

(g) "Native species" means, with respect to a particular ecosystem, a species that, other 

than as a result of an introduction, historically occurred or currently occurs in that 

ecosystem. 

(h) "Species" means a group of organisms all of which have a high degree of physical and 

genetic similarity, generally interbreed only among themselves, and show persistent 

differences from members of allied groups of organisms. 

(i) "Stakeholders" means, but is not limited to, State, tribal, and local government 

agencies, academic institutions, the scientific community, nongovernmental entities 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

70

including environmental, agricultural, and conservation organizations, trade groups, 

commercial interests, and private landowners. 

(j) "United States" means the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and 

all possessions, territories, and the territorial sea of the United States. 

Sec. 2. Federal Agency Duties. (a) Each Federal agency whose actions may affect the 

status of invasive species shall, to the extent practicable and permitted by law. 

1) identify such actions; 

2) subject to the availability of appropriations, and within Administration budgetary 

limits, use relevant programs and authorities to: (i) prevent the introduction of 

invasive species; (ii) detect and respond rapidly to and control populations of such 

species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner; (iii) monitor invasive 

species populations accurately and reliably; (iv) provide for restoration of native 

species and habitat conditions in ecosystems that have been invaded; (v) conduct 

research on invasive species and develop technologies to prevent introduction and 

provide for environmentally sound control of invasive species; and (vi) promote 

public education on invasive species and the means to address them; and 

3) not authorize, fund, or carry out actions that it believes are likely to cause or promote 

the introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States or elsewhere 

unless, pursuant to guidelines that it has prescribed, the agency has determined and 

made public its determination that the benefits of such actions clearly outweigh the 

potential harm caused by invasive species; and that all feasible and prudent measures 

to minimize risk of harm will be taken in conjunction with the actions. 

(b) federal agencies shall pursue the duties set forth in this section in consultation with 

the Invasive Species Council, consistent with the Invasive Species Management Plan 

and in cooperation with stakeholders, as appropriate, and, as approved by the 

Department of State, when Federal agencies are working with international 

organizations and foreign nations. 

Sec. 3. Invasive Species Council. (a) An Invasive Species Council (Council) is hereby 

established whose members shall include the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the 

Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of 

Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the 

Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. The Council shall be Co-Chaired 

by the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of 

Commerce. The Council may invite additional Federal agency representatives to be 

members, including representatives from subcabinet bureaus or offices with significant 

responsibilities concerning invasive species, and may prescribe special procedures for 

their participation. The Secretary of the Interior shall, with concurrence of the Co-Chairs, 

appoint an Executive Director of the Council and shall provide the staff and 

administrative support for the Council. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

71

(b) The Secretary of the Interior shall establish an advisory committee under the Federal 

Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App., to provide information and advice for 

consideration by the Council, and shall, after consultation with other members of the 

Council, appoint members of the advisory committee representing stakeholders. 

Among other things, the advisory committee shall recommend plans and actions at 

local, tribal, State, regional, and ecosystem-based levels to achieve the goals and 

objectives of the Management Plan in section 5 of this order. The advisory committee 

shall act in cooperation with stakeholders and existing organizations addressing 

invasive species. The Department of the Interior shall provide the administrative and 

financial support for the advisory committee. 

Sec. 4. Duties of the Invasive Species Council. The Invasive Species Council shall 

provide national leadership regarding invasive species, and shall: 

(a) oversee the implementation of this order and see that the Federal agency activities 

concerning invasive species are coordinated, complementary, cost-efficient, and 

effective, relying to the extent feasible and appropriate on existing organizations 

addressing invasive species, such as the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, the 

Federal Interagency Committee for the Management of Noxious and Exotic Weeds, 

and the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; 

(b) encourage planning and action at local, tribal, State, regional, and ecosystem-based 

levels to achieve the goals and objectives of the Management Plan in section 5 of this 

order, in cooperation with stakeholders and existing organizations addressing invasive 

species; 

(c) develop recommendations for international cooperation in addressing invasive 

species; develop, in consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality, 

guidance to Federal agencies pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act on 

prevention and control of invasive species, including the procurement, use, and 

maintenance of native species as they affect invasive species; 

(d) facilitate development of a coordinated network among Federal agencies to document, 

evaluate, and monitor impacts from invasive species on the economy, the 

environment, and human health; 

(e) facilitate establishment of a coordinated, up-to-date information-sharing system that 

utilizes, to the greatest extent practicable, the Internet; this system shall facilitate 

access to and exchange of information concerning invasive species, including, but not 

limited to, information on distribution and abundance of invasive species; life 

histories of such species and invasive characteristics; economic, environmental, and 

human health impacts; management techniques, and laws and programs for 

management, research, and public education; and 

(f) prepare and issue a national Invasive Species Management Plan asset forth in section 

5 of this order. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

72

Sec. 5. Invasive Species Management Plan. (a) Within 18 months after issuance of this 

order, the Council shall prepare and issue the first edition of a National Invasive Species 

Management Plan (Management Plan), which shall detail and recommend performanceoriented goals and objectives and specific measures of success for Federal agency efforts 

concerning invasive species. The Management Plan shall recommend specific objectives 

and measures for carrying out each of the Federal agency duties established in section 2 

(a) of this order and shall set forth steps to be taken by the Council to carry out the duties 

assigned to it under section 4 of this order. The Management Plan shall be developed 

through a public process and in consultation with Federal agencies and stakeholders. 

(b) The first edition of the Management Plan shall include a review of existing and 

prospective approaches and authorities for preventing the introduction and spread of 

invasive species, including those for identifying pathways by which invasive species 

are introduced and for minimizing the risk of introductions via those pathways, and 

shall identify research needs and recommend measures to minimize the risk that 

introductions will occur. Such recommended measures shall provide for a sciencebased process to evaluate risks associated with introduction and spread of invasive 

species and a coordinated and systematic risk-based process to identify, monitor, and 

interdict pathways that may be involved in the introduction of invasive species. If 

recommended measures are not authorized by current law, the Council shall develop 

and recommend to the President through its Co-Chairs legislative proposals for 

necessary changes in authority. 

(c) The Council shall update the Management Plan biennially and shall concurrently 

evaluate and report on success in achieving the goals and objectives set forth in the 

Management Plan. The Management Plan shall identify the personnel, other 

resources, and additional levels of coordination needed to achieve the Management 

Plan's identified goals and objectives, and the Council shall provide each edition of 

the Management Plan and each report on it to the Office of Management and Budget. 

Within 18 months after measures have been recommended by the Council in any 

edition of the Management Plan, each Federal agency whose action is required to 

implement such measures shall either take the action recommended or shall provide 

the Council with an explanation of why the action is not feasible. The Council shall 

assess the effectiveness of this order no less than once each 5 years after the order is 

issued and shall report to the Office of Management and Budget on whether the order 

should be revised. 

Sec. 6. Judicial Review and Administration. (a) This order is intended only to improve 

the internal management of the executive branch and is not intended to create any right, 

benefit, or trust responsibility, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or equity by 

a party against the United States, its agencies, its officers, or any other person. 

(b) Executive Order 11987 of May 24, 1977, is hereby revoked. 

(c) The requirements of this order do not affect the obligations of Federal agencies under 

16 U.S.C. 4713 with respect to ballast water programs. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

73

(d) The requirements of section 2(a)(3) of this order shall not apply to any action of the 

Department of State or Department of Defense if the Secretary of State or the 

Secretary of Defense finds that exemption from such requirements is necessary for 

foreign policy or national security reasons. 

WILLIAM J. CLINTON 

THE WHITE HOUSE, 

February 3, 1999 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

74

Appendix – E 

FEDERAL LAWS ADDRESSING AIS IN NEW MEXICO 

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

APHIS 

Plant Protection Act (2000) 

Consolidates & modernizes several major statutes (Plant Quarantine Act, Federal Plant Pest Act, Federal Noxious Weed Act, Organic Act of 1944, & others), replacing them with one flexible statutory framework providing the ability to prohibit or restrict imports, exports, & interstate movement; assess higher civil penalties; issue subpoenas; conduct inspections without a warrant; cooperate with industry & others in “quality assurance” programs; recover costs related 

to disposal of abandoned shipments; & take emergency action. By expanding the definition of “noxious weed” the Act enables APHIS to address a broader range of weed problems. 

Plants & plant material; plant pests; noxious weeds; & biological control agents. 

Uninteintr

All federal agencies 

EO 13112 (Feb. 1999) 

Defines invasive species (“any species, including its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biological material capable of propagating that species, that is not native to that ecosystem”). Directs all federal agencies to: -address invasive species concerns; -refrain from actions likely to increase invasive species problems. Creates interagency Invasive Species Council. Calls for National Invasive Species Management Plan to better coordinate federal agency efforts. 

All Un

and intresc

USFWS USCG EPA CoE NOAA 

NISA (1996) Reauthorized & amended NANPCA to mandate regulations 

to prevent introduction & spread of ANS into Great Lakes through ballast water. Authorized funding for research on ANS prevention & control. Required a ballast water management program to demonstrate technologies & practices to prevent alien species 

ANS & brown tree snake. 

Unintrbal
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

75

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

from being introduced. Modified composition of ANS Task Force. Required Task Force to develop & implement comprehensive program to control the brown tree snake in Guam 

DoA DoI 

Agreement on the Application of Sanitary & Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) (1995) 

A supplementary agreement to the World Trade Organization 

Agreement. Provides a uniform interpretation of the measures governing safety & plant & animal health 

regulations. Applicable to all sanitary & phytosanitary measures directly or indirectly affecting international trade. Sanitary & phytosanitary measures are defined as any measure applied: a) to protect animal or plant life or health 

within (a Members’ Territory) from entry, establishment or spread of pests, diseases, disease carrying organisms; b) to prevent or limit other damage within the (Members Territory) from the entry, establishment or spread of pests (annex A). 

Pests, diseases, disease-carrying organisms, or disease-causing organisms. 

Imp

USFWS 

Wild Bird Conservation Act (1992) 

Regulates importation of foreign wild birds. Birds & 

nonnative parasites & diseases transported by foreign birds 

Imp

USFWS USCG EPA CoE NOAA 

NANPCA (1990) Established ANS Task Force to: identify areas where ballast 

water does not pose an environmental threat; assess whether aquatic nuisance species threaten the ecological characteristics & economic uses of US waters (other than the Great Lakes); determine the need for controls on vessels entering US waters (other than Great Lakes); identify & evaluate approaches for reducing risk of adverse consequences associated with intentional introduction of aquatic species. Directs Coast Guard to issue regulations to prevent the Introduction & spread of aquatic nuisance species into the Great Lakes through ballast water. Directs CoE to develop a program of research & technology 

ANS Un

intrbal
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

76

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

to control zebra mussels in & around public facilities & make information available about control methods. 

DoI 

Convention on International Trade i

n

Endangered Species (CITES) (1975) 

Represents alternate model for regulating invasive species not already covered by the other agreements. Convention intended to prevent harm in exporting country; however, can be applied when species is endangered in exporting country & considered an invasive in importing country. 

Species of flora & fauna which are threatened or endangered in exporting countries (Appendices I, II & III-see web site). 

Intintrthrexpexpintrfro

DoD 

Convention on the prohibition of the development, production and stockpiling of bacteriological (biological) and toxin weapons and on their destruction (Biological Weapons Convention) (1975) 

Article I prohibits parties from developing, producing, stockpiling, acquiring or retaining microbial or other biological agents which are not justified by exclusively peaceful purpose. Article II requires parties to destroy or divert to peaceful purpose all such agents within 9 months of entry into force of the Convention. 

“Microbial or other biological agents... whatever their origin or method of production, of types & in quantities that have no justification for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes.” Allows for “international exchange of bacteriological agents & toxins & equipment for the processing, use or production of bacteriological agents & toxins for peaceful purposes.” 

“Wequmedeldessuctoxpur
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

77

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

Federal land management agencies 

Federal Noxious Weed Act of 1974 

Although the Plant Protection Act superseded & repealed most of the Federal Noxious Weed Act, it left intact Section 15 (management of undesirable plants on Federal lands). Requires Federal land management agencies to develop & establish a management program for control of undesirable plants on federal lands under the agencies’ jurisdiction. Requires those agencies to coordinate management where similar programs are being implemented on state & private 

lands in the same area. 

Noxious weeds; undesirable plant species. 

CoFed

USFWS NMFS 

Endangered Species Act (1973) 

Protects endangered species. When nonnative invasive species threaten endangered species, this act could be used as basis for their eradication. 

Alien species posing a danger to endangered species. 

No

All 

National Environmental Policy Act (1970) 

Requires federal government agencies to consider the environmental effects of their actions through preparation of 

environmental impact statements (or environmental assessments to determine whether a full EIS is required). Effects of nonnative species, if harmful to the environment, must be included in the EIS. 

Nonnative species posing harm to the environment. 

Intintrrelafed

APHIS 

International Plant Protection Convention (1952) 

Applies primarily to quarantine pests in international trade. Creates an international regime to prevent spread & introduction of plant & plant product pests premised on exchange of phytosanitary certificates between importing & exporting countries’ national plant protection offices. Parties have national plant protection organizations established according to the Convention with authority in relation to quarantine control, risk analysis & other measures required to prevent the establishment & spread of all invasive alien species that, directly or indirectly, are pests of plants. Parties agree to cooperate on information exchange & on the development of International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures. 

Pests of plants or plant products: “any form of plant or animal life, or any pathogenic agent, injurious or potentially injurious to plants or plant products” Quarantine pests involved with international trade: “pest of potential national economic importance to the country endangered 

“Stconconany or mcapharsprpeswhintetraninvPacor mkin
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

78

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

thereby & not yet present there, or present but not widely distributed & being actively controlled” 

accplastoor tfac

EPA 

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (1947) 

Gives EPA authority to regulate importation & distribution of substances, including organisms, which are intended to function as pesticides. 

Biological control agents (In terms of biological control agents, EPA currently regulates only eukaryotic & prokaryotic microorganisms under FIFRA. Other biocontrol agents are exempt because they are “adequately regulated” by another agency, i.e., APHIS.). 

Intintr

APHIS AMS 

Federal Seed Act (1939) 

Requires accurate labeling & purity standards for seeds in commerce. Prohibits importation & movement of adulterated or misbranded seeds 

Seeds Int

intrthr

APHIS 

Act of March 2, 1931, often referred to as the Animal Damage Control Act 

Gives APHIS authority to control wildlife damage on federal, state, or private land. Protects: field crops, vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticultural crops, commercial forests; freshwater aquaculture ponds & marine species cultivation areas; livestock on public & private range & in feedlots; public & private buildings & facilities; civilian & military aircraft; public health . 

Damaging species (nutria, blackbirds, European starlings, monk parakeets). 

Unintr

DoI Lacey Act (1900; amended in 1998) Prohibits import of a list of designated species & other vertebrates, mollusks, & crustacea that are “injurious to Species injurious to human beings or Int

intr
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

79

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions 

Organisms 

Addressed 

PaMeTr

human beings, to the interests of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, or to wildlife or the wildlife resources of the United States.” Declares importation or transportation of any live wildlife as injurious & prohibited, except as provided for under the Act, but allows import of almost all species for scientific, medical, education, exhibition, or propagation purposes. 

resources. trad
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

80

Appendix – F 

NEW MEXICO STATE LAWS ADDRESSING AIS 

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions Organisms Addressed 

Pathwaor MeaTransp

New Mexico Pest Control Act [76-6-1 to 76-6-39] 

Provides the authority to carry out operations or measures to locate, suppress, control, eradicate, prevent or retard the spread of pests. This provision includes the authority to quarantine all or part of the state, to inspect areas suspected of infestation, & to abate the threat from actual or suspected infestations of pests. 

"Pest" means any insect, disease or other organism causing (or capable of) damage to any plants or its parts or plant products. 

New Mexico Plant Protection Act [76-5-11 to 76-5-28] 

Provides the authority for the state to inspect nurseries & florists to ensure stock are free from plant pests. This provision also includes the authority to regulate the transport into the state & the sale & transport within the state to ensure plant stock is pest free. 

"Plant pests" are organisms injurious to plants & plant products which could be transported with the plant, including phyla arthropoda, mollusca or nemathelminthes as well as weeds, fungi, bacteria, viruses or parasitic plants. 

NMDA / Agriculture & Environmental Services Division / Bureau of Entomology & Nursery Industries Mexico 

Harmful Plant Act [76-7A-1 to 76-7A11] 

Provides the authority to prevent the introduction, spread or dissemination of a harmful plant in the state. This provision includes the authority to quarantine all or part of the state, as well as any domestic livestock, captive wildlife or captive stray animals suspected of exposure to a harmful plant, to make inspections areas suspected of harboring harmful plants, & to abate the threat from harmful plants. 

"Harmful plant" means any plant, seeds or other parts of a plant the board declares by regulation to be a harmful plant. 

Intentio& unintentl 

NMDA / Agriculture & Environmental Services 

New Mexico Commercial Feed 

Authorizes the state to establish limits on the amount of weed seeds in commercial feeds. This provision includes the authority to inspect & detain any commercial feeds not meeting labeled specifications. 

"Commercial feed" means all materials which are distributed for use as feed or for mixing in feed for animals other than man, 

Intentio& unintentl 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

81

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions Organisms Addressed 

Pathwaor MeaTransp

Law [76-19-1 to 76-19-14] 

except: (1) unmixed or unprocessed whole seeds; or (2) unground hay, straw, stover, silage, cobs, husks & hulls when not mixed with other materials. 

Mexico 

Seed Law 

[76-10-11 

to 76-10-

22] 

Authorizes the regulation of sale & transport of seeds into & within the state. Inclusive, is the authority to regulate labeling & allowable limits of noxious weed seeds. 

"Noxious weed seeds" includes prohibited noxious weed seeds & restricted noxious weed seeds. "Prohibited noxious weed seeds" are seeds of weeds which, when established, are highly destructive & are not controlled in this state by the cultural practices commonly used. "Restricted noxious weed seeds" are the seeds of weeds which are very objectionable in fields, lawns & gardens in this state & are very difficult to control by cultural practices commonly used. 

Division / Bureau of Feed, Seed, & Fertilizer 

New Mexico Noxious Weed Act of 1963 [76-7-23 to 76-7-30] & the amended 1978 New Mexico Noxious 

Provide the authority to declare a weed as noxious. Under the act, the sale, distribution or planting of a noxious weed into or within the state is illegal & penalties exist to prevent such. This includes the authority to inspect any facility or ground where noxious weed seeds are sold, stored, transported or planted. 

"Noxious weed" means any species of plant which is liable to be detrimental or destructive, & difficult to control or eradicate. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

82

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions Organisms Addressed 

Pathwaor MeaTransp

Weed Management Act 

NMDA / Agriculture & Environmental Services Division / Bureau of Pesticide Management 

New Mexico Pesticide Control Act [76-4-1 to 76-4-39] 

Provides authority to regulate all pesticides & pesticide applicators, including aquatic pesticides. It also provides for training & education of pesticide applicators. The administrative rules of this Act require special training & management plan development for the use of aquatic herbicides 

NA NA 

New Mexico Livestock Code, Article 15 Predatory Animals & Rodent Pest [77-15-1 to 77-15-5] 

Authorizes the state to cooperate in the control of rodent pests. 

Rodents 

NMDA / Agricultural & Resources Division New Mexico 

Soil & Water Conservation District Act [73-20-25 to 73-20-48] 

Recognizes the value of New Mexico’s water resources & authorizes their administration. Inclusive is the need to preserve the state’s waters to protect the health & welfare of the people of the state & to preserve & conserve its wildlife & natural resources. 

Intentioor unintentl 

NMDGF New Mexico Regulate the importation of fish & game into the state & their movement within the state. To protect game Fish & game animals Intentio
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

83

Department 

or 

Agency Authority Provisions Organisms Addressed 

Pathwaor MeaTransp

Chapter 17, Game & Fish & Outdoor Recreation (various articles) 

animals, birds & fish from introduced infectious or contagious diseases the importation of any live animals, birds or fish into this state, except domesticated animals or domesticated fowl or fish from government hatcheries, without first obtaining a permit from the NMDGF is regulated under 17-3-32. Shipment of game animals, birds & fish to officers of other states is regulated under 17-3-30. The taking of bait fish from state waters for the purpose of sale is regulated under 17-3-27. 

NMED / Water Quality Control Commission 

State Water Quality Act [74-6-1] 

Establishes the Water Quality Control Commission, administratively attached to the NMED, & specifies its duties & powers. The duties & powers of the Commission include adoption of a comprehensive water quality management program, the development of a continuing planning process, the administration of loans & grants from the federal government, the adoption of water quality standards, & the adoption of regulations "to prevent or abate water pollution in the state or in any specific geographic area or watershed of the state...or for any class of waters." Various sub-parts of the Standards for Interstate & Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC] included components directly & indirectly applicable to ANS in New Mexico. Factors affecting growth of undesirable aquatic life [20.6.4.13 E] & the application of piscicides [20.6.4.13 F] are addressed. 

Unspecified NA 

NMDH 

NM Statutes, Chapter 24. Health & Safety, Public Health 

Authority to investigate, control & abate the causes of 

disease, especially epidemics, sources of mortality & other conditions of public health [24-1-3C] & to establish, maintain & enforce isolation & quarantine [24-1-3D]. 

Unspecified 

Intentioor unintentl 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

84

Appendix – G 

WGA Policy Resolution 04-12 

Undesirable Aquatic, Riparian, and Invasive Species 

June 22, 2004 

Santa Fe, New Mexico 

SPONSOR: Governors Locke and Rounds 

A. BACKGROUND

1. Invasive or undesirable aquatic, riparian and terrestrial species influence 

the productivity, value, and management of a broad range of land and 

water resources in the West. These undesirable species have significant 

negative economic, social and ecological impacts which include, but are 

not limited to: 

a. reduction of the yield and quality of desirable crop forage plants; 

b. poisoning of livestock; 

c. reduction of native biodiversity resulting in a growing number of 

threatened, endangered and extinct species; 

d. adverse affects upon human health through allergies, poisoning, and 

harboring vectors; 

e. degradation of natural aquatic systems including obstruction of water 

flow in irrigation and drainage systems; 

f. reduction of the value of streams, lakes, reservoirs, oceans, and 

estuaries for fish and wildlife habitat, and public water supply; 

g. high cost of control; 

h. increase in facilities maintenance costs such as power plants, water 

treatment plants, etc.; 

i. detracting from the aesthetics and recreational value of wildlands, 

parklands, and other areas; and 

j. decreased real estate property value and increased costs of property 

development; 

k. competition with or transmission of diseases to wild Pacific salmon or 

other important marine and aquatic species. 

2. Undesirable species are those listed on a state or federal recognized list of 

noxious, nuisance or deleterious species. 

3. Aquatic invasive species such as the zebra mussel, giant salvinia, and 

Eurasian watermilfoil are spreading into more western water-bodies each 

year. The most common source for these species is via recreational 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

85

watercraft movement and from supplies sold by aquatic plant and animal 

suppliers. No western state has implemented a program that is capable of 

adequately preventing or reducing the spread of these aquatic invasive 

species. The economic and environmental damage from aquatic invasive 

species will continue to rise in western states without a well-organized and 

adequately funded effort to implement prevention programs in each state. 

It is estimated that the cost for control and cleaning for zebra mussels 

alone where they have already infested waters in the US is $3 billion. 

Similarly, Giant salvinia is choking off waterways including those of the 

Colorado River. 

B. GOVERNORS’ POLICY STATEMENT

1. The Western Governors recognize that the spread of invasive, undesirable 

species results from the combination of human behavior, susceptibility of 

invaded environments, and the biology of the invading species, and that 

these characteristics are not dictated by geopolitical boundaries, but rather 

by ecosystem-level components which often span state borders. The 

Western Governors support coordinated, multistate management and 

eradication actions preventing the spread, intentional and unintentional 

introductions, and control of undesirable aquatic and terrestrial species on 

land and in the water. The principal objectives will be to maintain 

properly functioning natural systems, agriculture productivity, enhancing 

resource and environmental protection, and the protection of human 

health. Control programs will be those that are economically practicable 

in relationship to the long-term impacts an introduced nuisance species 

will cause. 

2. In pursuit of these objectives, programs for the control and/or eradication 

of unauthorized, undesirable aquatic and terrestrial species need to 

incorporate education, prevention, and early detection and rapid response 

techniques and be based upon Integrated Pest Management (IPM) 

concepts and practices. IPM involves the use of all suitable techniques, 

including biological, chemical, physical (mechanical and manual), cultural 

measures (environmental manipulation), and public awareness programs. 

3. The western governors strongly encourage all natural resource land 

management agencies, local governments, universities and the private 

sector to collaborate and form partnerships to prevent new unauthorized 

introductions; for the enhancement, development and implementation of 

IPM programs; and to work together to find creative new approaches for 

protecting and restoring natural, agriculture, and recreational resources, 

including the use of challenge grants. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

86

4. The Western Governors urge full funding support for federal programs 

that manage invasive species on federal lands and provide assistance to 

states in the management of invasive species, including the national 

invasive species act and programs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture 

Animal, Plant, and Health Inspection Service (APHIS) which provides 

valuable services in the detection and elimination of undesirable species of 

insects and plant diseases. Their services are essential for states relying 

on trade and export services to maintain strong trade and export functions. 

5. The Western Governors recognize the importance of, and need for, a 

coordinated western regional approach to aquatic invasive species. 

C. GOVERNORS’ MANAGEMENT DIRECTIVE

1. This resolution is to be posted on the Western Governors’ Association 

website and it should be referenced and used as appropriate by Governors 

and staff. 

2. The Western Governors Association shall obtain necessary resources and 

work with appropriate partners to facilitate the development and 

coordination of western strategies to limit the spread of undesirable 

aquatic and terrestrial species. The executive director is authorized to 

obtain federal staff support under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act if 

necessary in connection with this directive. 

3. Of particular importance will be: 

a. Development and harmonization of uniform, and scientifically 

based species lists; 

b. Establishing consistent and effective policies and procedures to 

prevent transport, sale and dispersal of undesirable species, 

particularly those under eradication in specific states; 

c. Development of uniform public educational and awareness 

media that create effective communication to the public throughout 

the western states; and 

d. Facilitation of development of appropriate K-12 school science 

curricula which recognizes that the introduction, spread and 

impacts of undesirable species present a serious environmental 

threat from ”biological pollution” and that engendering 

environmental stewardship is best accomplished with early 

education. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

87

4. WGA shall convene an Aquatic Invasive Species Working Group to 

develop, fund, and implement a comprehensive program to prevent the 

spread of aquatic invasive species in the water resources of the western 

states. The Working Group shall partner with the Western Regional Panel 

on Aquatic Invasive Species, the Western States Water Council, and the 

Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. 

This resolution was originally adopted in 1998 as WGA resolution 98-018 and was readopted as 02-21. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

88

Appendix – H 

 New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds 

 2000-2001 

The spread of noxious weeds has been called one of the most serious environmental 

threats of our time. Every day, an additional 4,600 acres of public lands are infested with 

noxious weeds. Spotted knapweed infestations in some areas of Montana have reduced 

winter elk forage by 50- 90 percent. Noxious weed infestations are now the second 

leading cause of native species being listed as threatened or endangered. Watersheds 

dominated by noxious weeds are often less efficient in absorbing and storing water. 

Invasive species often lack the characteristics of native species necessary for soil 

protection, resulting in increased soil erosion. Aquatic noxious weeds can lower the water 

quality of surface water and cause extensive fish kills. 

 

In addition to the environmental devastation wreaked by noxious weeds, they are a 

serious economic problem. The total direct and secondary economic impacts of spotted 

knapweed in Montana are estimated to be $42 million annually. Similarly, the economic 

losses caused by leafy spurge in Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota 

are estimated at $129 million each year. Annual control of Hydrilla in the United States 

costs approximately $25 million. Rangelands infested with Russian knapweed, a serious 

problem in New Mexico, typically suffer reductions in livestock carrying capacity of 50 

percent or more. 

 

Many other western states have conducted noxious weed management programs for 

years, some have trust funds in excess of a million dollars to help with management 

costs; however, most feel like they are still losing the battle. Across the West, people are 

recognizing that weed management efforts done by individuals are not only costly, they 

are often ineffective. Over and over again, it has been shown that weeds do not respect 

fences or property boundaries. If we are going to be successful, we must work together. 

 

Although New Mexico citizens have only recently begun to recognize noxious weeds as 

an important environmental and economic problem, we are making headway. Progress 

has been achieved due to dedicated New Mexicans who have worked to increase 

awareness, build-local management capacity, comply with federal and state laws, and to 

begin actually controlling infestations. The strategic plan is an attempt to coordinate the 

individual efforts into a noxious weed management program where the sum of the efforts 

ends up greater than the parts. A cooperative, concerted effort will result in a win-win 

situation for the environment and the citizens of New Mexico. 

 

Statement of Endorsement and Support 

Supporting Organizations: 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

89

Federal 

• United States Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

• United States Bureau of Indian Affairs 

• United States Bureau of Land Management 

• United States Fish and Wildlife Service 

• United States Federal Highway Administration 

• United States Forest Service 

• United States National Park Service 

• United States Natural Resources Conservation Service 

State 

• New Mexico Environment Department 

• New Mexico Department of Agriculture 

• New Mexico Department of Game and Fish 

• New Mexico Oil Conservation Department 

• New Mexico Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

• New Mexico State Forestry Division 

• New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service 

• New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department 

• New Mexico State Land Office 

• New Mexico State University 

Organizations 

• New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts 

• New Mexico Association of' Counties 

• New Mexico Cattle Growers Association 

• New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau 

• New Mexico Native Plant Society 

• New Mexico Vegetation Management Association 

• New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc. 

• Resource Conservation and Development Associations 

• Sierra Club -Rio Grande Chapter 

 

The parties supporting this strategy understand that it is a non-binding statement of 

consensus. This plan is intended as a general understanding and agreement on how to 

approach noxious weed management in New Mexico. 

 

INTRODUCTION 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

90

The New Mexico Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds addresses eight broad 

issues critical in building a strong and successful statewide noxious weed management 

program. 

 

I. Coordination, Cooperation, and Partnership

Effective and Consistent Coordination and Cooperation 

Dispute Resolution 

Roles of Cooperating Entities 

 

II. Organization of Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA)

Support and Success of CWMAs 

Expanding the Use of Cooperative Agreements and Resource Sharing 

Develop and Expand Interest Group Partnerships 

Early Detection of New Infestations 

Statewide Coordination of CWMAs 

 

III. Awareness and Education

Expand Understanding of Impacts Associated with Noxious Weeds 

Weed Management Continuing Education 

 

IV. Funding and Resources 

Obtain Adequate Funding 

Expand the Use of Incentives to Fund Effective Weed Programs 

 

V. Inventory, Mapping, and Monitoring 

Locate and Map Noxious Weed Infestations 

 

VI. Assessments and Adaptive Planning 

Integrate Weed Management into Resource Management Activities 

Provide Statewide Weed Management Program Direction 

 

VII. Research and Technology 

Obtain Support for Accelerated Research and Technology Development 

Facilitate Communication Between Researchers and Land Managers 

 

The strategic plan has a dual purpose: 1) to heighten the awareness among citizens of the 

degradation to New Mexico lands and waters caused by the explosive spread of 

nonnative weeds, along with the resulting negative economic impact; and 2) to bring 

about greater statewide coordination; cooperation; and action to halt or minimize the 

spread of such weeds in an ecologically sound manner; and restore infested lands and 

waters to a healthy and productive condition. 

 I. COORDINATION, COOPERATION, AND PARTNERSHIPS 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

91

Individual efforts are critical, yet coordination can serve as a multiplier for those efforts. 

Successful coordination depends on everyone's participation. Coordination affects every 

aspect of the weed program. Specific ways to increase coordination on specific issues 

will be addressed throughout the strategic plan. This section is intended to establish the 

framework to improve coordination. 

 

Effective and Consistent Coordination and Cooperation 

 

Issue: The expediency with which we act is critical in determining the success of conto1 

attempts. We cannot waste valuable time in deadlock over disputes concerning any 

aspect of weed management. 

 

Actions: Methods of dispute resolution will be identified. These methods will be utilized 

whenever conflicts arise which are significant enough to halt or delay noxious weed 

management. 

 

A noxious weed summit will be held on a yearly basis to facilitate communication and 

networking between all entities involved with or affected by noxious weeds. 

 

The New Mexico Noxious Weed Advisory Group (NWAG) is an informal group 

consisting of representatives from agencies and interest groups. They will meet, as 

needed, to discuss issues, problems, and opportunities associated with noxious weeds. 

 

A noxious weed web page will be developed to post noxious weed activities, projects, 

problems encountered, and opportunities. 

 

Forums will be held in different regions of the state to allow private property owners, 

public resource managers, and other concerned entities an opportunity to discuss current 

noxious weed situations and issues in the area. 

 

A newsletter will be developed to keep noxious weed managers abreast of news and 

opportunities relevant to noxious weeds. 

 

Efforts should be made to contact and communicate with individuals, who are opposed to 

noxious weed control, as well as individuals or groups with special needs. 

 

New Mexico's weed management strategy is intended to complement the objectives of 

agency and inter-agency weed management strategies (i.e., Bureau of Land Management 

(BLM), Partners Against Weeds action plan, the Forest Service (FS), Stemming The 

Invasive Tide, and the national interagency strategy, Pulling Together), as well as the 

National Invasive Species Management Plan, but with a specific focus on opportunities 

and problems in New Mexico. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

92

Participants of CWMAs should take an active role in supporting their federal agency 

partner’s public outreach requirements in order to facilitate weed management on public 

lands. 

 

Issue: The noxious weed issue impacts many different types of organizations and 

agencies. In order to prevent duplication of efforts and to make use of resources in the 

most efficient method, it is important to identify what roles the different entities fulfill. 

Actions: It is important that CWMAs are designed to encourage participation from each 

of the types of groups outlined below. Broad participation from different groups will 

ensure the success of the CWMA. The primary roles of the supporting agencies and 

organizations have been defined below: 

 

Conservation Organizations will educate their memberships, the Legislature, the 

Congressional delegation, school groups and teachers, and the general public. They will 

use their meetings, newsletters, web sites, and workshops to inform these audiences about 

noxious weed problems, their sources and possible solutions, and to raise support for 

ecologically appropriate control programs. Knowledgeable members of conservation 

organizations will provide early detection of weed invaders. Members will, on occasion, 

volunteer labor for weed control efforts. 

 

Soil and Water Conservation Districts are an important link between private 

individuals and government agencies. They will work to provide training and help with 

awareness and outreach. In many areas of the state, they will provide leadership and 

coordinate efforts between the many partners necessary for an effective CWMA. 

 

Trade/Industry Organizations will help educate their membership on Best 

Management Practices (BMP) to prevent and manage weed infestations, as well as the 

deleterious effects of noxious weeds on their industry. They will work with the noxious 

weed coordinator and have representation on the New Mexico NWAG to ensure the 

industry's needs and concerns are addressed. 

 

Government Agencies will work to address noxious weed problems within the scope of 

the role of the agency. The New Mexico Department of Agriculture will work to 

coordinate noxious weed management efforts throughout the state. The primary concern 

of land management agencies shall be to manage noxious weed infestations on lands 

administered by their agency and to protect those lands from new infestations. 

Cooperative Extension service will educate the public about the negative impacts of 

noxious weed infestations and work with private landowners to develop vegetation 

management plans. They will serve as the single point of contact if the CWMA does not 

designate another entity or individual. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

93

Private Land Owners will manage noxious weed infestations on private land in the 

manner they feel is most appropriate for their needs. They are encouraged to participate 

in CWMAs. Of utmost importance under New Mexico's Noxious Weed Act is the 

recognition of their private property rights. 

 

II. ORGANIZATION OF WEED MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS 

 

Issue: Diverse topographical, climatic, soil composition, precipitation, and cultural 

factors across the state mean that noxious weed problems will need customized, local 

solutions. 

 

Actions: The purpose of a CWMA is to facilitate cooperation among all landowners and 

land managers in order to manage weed problems within an area. Cooperators in a 

CWMA work together to jointly prioritize weed management efforts in their area. The 

supporters of this plan agree to encourage and support the proliferation of communitybased CWMAs. 

 

Because of the diverse climatic, topographical, and cultural settings across the state, the 

organization and operational aspects of CWMAs will be best dictated by local entities 

familiar with the opportunities and challenges of that particular area. 

 

The area encompassed in the CWMA is determined by the individuals participating in the 

CWMA. Careful consideration should be used in defining the boundaries of a CWMA. 

 

Success, Efficiency and Support of CWMAs 

 

Issue: The success CWMAs is dependent upon the level of cooperation from the general 

public, interest groups, private industries, and land management agencies. It is critical 

that the time, effort, and resources invested in the CWMAs are utilized in the most 

effective manner. 

 

Actions: The organizations and agencies comprising NWAG will take an active role in 

providing support for CWMAs. 

 

Whenever possible, CWMAs should take advantage of strategies that have proven to be 

effective in other areas and adapt those strategies to fit the local area. 

 

CWMAs should develop yearly management plans that clearly identify the goals and 

objectives of their program. The plan should also list, by priority, specific actions to be 

accomplished during the course of the year. It is recommended that the list be extended 

beyond what is possible with existing budget constraints. If additional funding sources 

become available, the CWMA is able to utilize additional funds without having to 

reevaluate their priorities for the year. The management plan should also outline a 

monitoring and evaluation system. At a minimum, the system should be capable of 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

94

determining: 1) weed populations trends, 2) effectiveness of decisions, priorities, and 

management strategies; 3) effectiveness of treatment actions; 4) awareness of potential 

invaders in adjacent areas; and 5) the "Measures of Success" or expected outcomes of a 

coordinated weed management program. 

 

Expand the Use of Cooperative Agreements and Resource Sharing 

 

Issue: Because of limited resources, CWMAs and their participants are often unable to 

independently acquire and maintain modern weed control and mapping equipment, 

computers and software, and the seasonal workers necessary to sustain an effective 

management program. 

Actions: Facilitation and encourage the development of cooperative agreements for 

sharing skills and resources. This could include, but is not limited to, the sharing of 

personnel, equipment, computer technology, any materials for integrated weed 

management, inventory and monitoring data, and educational materials. Cooperators will 

also share skills of available experts and technicians and jointly sponsor training and 

informational meetings. 

 

It is important to recognize that the authority of a CWMA does not negate or supercede 

the decision-making ability of the individual landowners or managers involved in the 

CWMA. Formation of CWMAs is not intended to take over decision-making power, but 

rather to provide a mechanism for coordination between all the involved decision makers. 

 

A resource directory will be developed listing individuals from government, universities, 

agricultural organizations, task force groups, weed management associations, and 

conservation organizations with particular weed management expertise and skills. The 

directory will be made available to local landowners and groups as a resource for 

organizing CWMAs, providing technical and leadership training, and assisting in 

resolving weed issues. 

 

Agencies should identify equipment, computer applications, and other types of capital 

resources that would benefit cooperative weed programs. Cooperating agencies will list 

these resources and make the list available to applicable CWMAs. 

 

Develop and Expand Interest Group Partnerships 

 

Issue: Noxious weeds tend to erroneously viewed as an agricultural problem. Other 

interest groups, which may have substantial expertise and resources, are often not 

included in noxious weed management efforts, particularly at the local level. 

 

Actions: Facilitate the creation of Intergovernmental Agreements that utilize joint 

powers agreements between New Mexico State University, New Mexico Department of 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

95

Agriculture, the county in which a CWMA is located, and any other group that should be 

included in the agreement. 

 

Actively seek wide involvement from organizations such as garden clubs, native plant 

societies, conservation, real estate, hunting and fishing, recreation, and foundation groups 

to provide greater opportunities for them to be involved in CWMA activities and the state 

weed program as a whole. 

 

Establish partnerships with groups such as the 4-H; FFA; Boy Scouts; Girl Scouts; litterpatrol groups; outdoor volunteer groups; and with elementary, secondary, and high 

schools to develop future leadership and to add a significant volunteer resource pool to 

local weed management capability. 

 

Encourage Agriculture and Extension Education to take steps to incorporate weed 

awareness into 4-H and FFA activities. Also encourage involvement in noxious weed 

programs as part of the community-service activities of these groups. 

 

 

Develop Early Detection Systems 

 

Issue: Early detection of newly arrived noxious weeds is a critical element of integrated 

weed management. 

 

Actions: Ensure that all integrated weed management plans contain provisions and 

mechanisms for early detection and control of noxious weeds. Stress the need for 

immediate, decisive action for control of new discoveries. 

 

Whenever possible, CWMAs should provide a point of contact to the New Mexico 

Department of Agriculture. These points of contact will be placed on the internet web 

site. The default contact person for reporting new infestations of noxious weeds in an 

area will be the county extension agent. 

 

Statewide Coordination of CWMAs 

 

Issue: Weed problems are most effectively dealt with at the local level; however, 

statewide coordination of these programs will improve the efficiency of individual 

CWMAs, allow the state to prioritize resource allocation, and measure the state's 

progress in dealing with noxious weeds. 

 

Actions: Individual CWMAs should report yearly activities including inventories, 

control measures implemented, and monitoring results to the state weed coordinator. This 

will provide the information necessary for decisions regarding the state's noxious weed 

list, funding priorities, and baseline data to measure progress or failures in dealing with 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

96

noxious weeds. Additionally, the information will aid in awareness projects and provide 

accountability and credibility to the state's noxious weed program. 

 

The Guidelines for Coordinated Management of Noxious Weeds: Development of 

Management Areas will be made available to CWMA staff/volunteers to reference. 

 

 

III. AWARENESS, EDUCATION AND INVOLVEMENT 

 

Expand Understanding of Impacts, Prevention, and Management of Noxious Weeds

 

Issue: More citizens need to understand how the spread of noxious weeds negatively 

impacts the environment, economy, and the natural resources. 

 

Actions: Develop and disseminate information about the characteristics and impacts of 

noxious weeds on the environment, economy, recreational opportunities, and quality of 

life in New Mexico. This information will also be incorporated into information about 

related issues such as threatened and endangered species, water quality, and wildfire. 

 

Develop a noxious weed speaker’s guild. The guild would consist of people willing to 

give presentations, workshops, and seminars on the issues. The list of people should be 

available on the internet. When there is a need for a speaker, organizers will be able to 

choose a speaker who is close geographically or who would be appropriate for specific 

audiences. 

 

Develop BMPs for industries including, but not limited to, construction, transportation, 

mining, agriculture, silviculture, recreation industries to limit the spread of noxious 

weeds. 

 

Emphasize the need for prevention practices through awareness and education programs. 

Develop educational pamphlets and workshops that address topics such as the use of 

weed-free seed and forage; animal grooming to reduce the risk of transporting noxious 

weed seed; cleaning and washing construction equipment; avoiding the use of gravel, fill, 

or top soil contaminated with weed seed; and maintaining high impact human-use areas 

in a weed free condition. 

 

Provide weed identification and management training to citizens and landowners to raise 

their awareness about noxious weeds commonly found in their area. 

 

School children are a population that should be targeted specifically with programs 

geared to their age group for noxious weed awareness. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

97

Information about the impacts of noxious weeds and the need to manage them wi11 be 

integrated into public education environmental curricula. "Whenever possible, it wi11 be 

made available at the state or regional levels to take advantage of economies-of-scale. 

 

Develop a "traveling trunk" containing a variety of weed awareness activities and 

exercises for grades K-12 that can be distributed to schools. 

 

Issue: Raising public awareness and understanding requires a well-planned and 

financed long- term program. To capture public interest and mobilize citizens to help 

stop the spread of noxious weeds also requires the immediate attention of the local, state, 

and national media. 

 

Actions: Cooperatively utilize professional public information specialists to develop a 

statewide information program and coordinate television spots, ad campaigns, and public 

service announcements. 

 

Issue: Increased actions from local, state, and national officials in dealing with noxious 

weeds first requires greater awareness and understanding from New Mexico citizens, 

landowners, and elected officials. Increasing the understanding of the risks associated 

with noxious weeds, and the kinds and amounts of resources needed to effectively manage 

noxious weeds across New Mexico is critical to weed management. 

 

Actions: The development of CWMAs will bring greater awareness and support from 

citizens and landowners. Public support will likely rise with an assurance that public 

funds are used effectively. 

 

Cooperating county, state, all federal land management agencies will highlight and 

recognize local weed management successes and achievements. 

 

Create more effective informational brochures, videos, and educational materials and 

distribute them widely. Develop briefing packages; presentations; and tours for national, 

state, and local officials. 

 

Issue: Simply creating awareness of the problem is not enough, it is important that 

people or groups who are aware of the problem become involved in the solution. 

 

Actions: Ask private industry to include noxious weed awareness campaigns with their 

private advertising campaigns. 

 

Involve general public with weed scouting or weed lookout programs in which they 

receive weed identification booklets and are asked to report noxious weed infestations. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

98

Work with public school administrators to include more noxious weed awareness 

activities in school curriculums. 

 

Involve homebuilders associations and real estate agents to disseminate information on 

noxious weeds to new homeowners, homebuilders, and people moving to New Mexico 

from out of state. 

 

Encourage local nurseries, and greenhouses to offer alternative ornamental plants that are 

not noxious or invasive weeds. Ask for their help educating gardeners on the negative 

effects of using noxious weeds in landscaping. 

 

Develop a slogan or poster contest to engage creative minds in generating noxious weed 

awareness messages. 

 

Provide recognition and encourage awards for weed professionals and landowners as 

incentives to build and maintain an effective weed management program. 

 

Upgrade Weed Management Continuing Education 

 

Issue: There is a need to provide frequent, consistent, and up-to-date information for 

weed management professionals and cooperators because of constant changes in weed 

management personnel, tools, techniques and research findings. 

 

Actions: Training opportunities are offered by the New Mexico Vegetation Management 

Association, Range Management Association, New Mexico State University, New 

Mexico Crop Producers Association, and other interested groups. Based on the review 

and assessment, and with support of New Mexico State University and Cooperative 

Extension educators, training curricula will be broadened arid advertised to reach a larger 

audience. 

 

Research topics and training seminars will be summarized and available via the Internet. 

 

Interested organizations will sponsor training workshops for noxious weed identification, 

control methodologies, mapping applications, and any other topics of interest to weed 

managers. 

 

 

1V. FUNDING AND RESOURCES 

 

Obtain Adequate Funding 

 

Issue: Funding for all elements of integrated weed management are chronically short 

statewide. The current rate of spread of noxious weeds and the introduction of new 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

99

species far outstrips the capability to contain them. State and federal resources are far 

from adequate to deal with the scope of the problem across millions of acres of New 

Mexico lands. 

 

Actions: Encourage and support federal, state, and private funding at levels that are 

commensurate with size of the problem. The supporters will encourage counties to 

finance an active participatory noxious weed program. 

 

Expand the Use of Incentives to Fund Effective Noxious Weed Programs. 

 

Issue: There is a lack of consistency in the implementation of noxious weed management 

programs at all levels. 

 

Actions: Try to develop a cost-share program to encourage landowners, local officials, 

and noxious weed managers to develop implement quality programs. 

 

 

V. INVENTORY, MAPPING, AND MONITORING 

 

Locate and Map Noxious Weed Infestations 

 

Issue: Noxious weed infestations are not consistently identified and delineated. 

Complete up-to-date inventories, displaying the distribution and severity of weed 

infestations, are available in only a few areas. Knowing where noxious weeds are 

located is paramount to: (1) raising public awareness; (2) generating support and funds 

for quality programs; (3) developing effective integrated management plans with specific 

control actions; and (4) assessing the economic and social impact of noxious weeds. 

 

Actions: Encourage and support development of integrated weed management plans 

with an effective inventory that enables the NW AG to: 

 

• identify and record the location of noxious weeds; 

• calculate total acreage infested for each noxious weed on the state list; and 

• determine rate of spread for each weed by comparing inventories from year to year. 

 

Cooperatively review inventory/mapping procedures and database structure used across 

the state to assess the compatibility of existing programs. Adopt or develop a compatible 

inventory and information system with a minimum set of standardized protocols that can 

be used by federal, state, and county agencies in the mapping and management of 

noxious weeds. 

 

Implementation: Agencies and CWMAs should use the national inventory 

standards developed by the North American Weed Management Association 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

100

(NAWMA). These standards are minimum standards and can be adapted to fit 

individual needs. 

 

Develop or designate a repository to combine inventory information collected by separate 

entities. The repository should be capable of providing a statewide look at noxious weed 

acreage and distribution patterns. The repository will not be capable of replacing data 

management capabilities and needs of the participating entities. Its purpose will be 

twofold: 1) to help develop awareness of the weed problems in New Mexico; and 2) to 

help set priorities concerning noxious weeds at the state level. 

 

Efforts should be made to share inventory information with surrounding states and 

Mexico. 

 

Implementation: Agencies and CWMAs should the Southwest Exotic Plant Mapping 

Project (SWEMP) as the repository for New Mexico noxious weed inventories. The 

project is managed by the United State Geographical Service and will be compatible 

with the NAWMA Guidelines mentioned above by 2001. Information concerning 

noxious weed inventories is available to the public through the SWEMP website at 

 http://www.usgs.nau.edu/swemp/ 

 

VI. ASSESSMENTS AND ADAPTIVE PLANNING 

 

Integrate Weed Management into Resource Management Activities 

 

Issue: Although considerable progress is occurring, weed management is still viewed 

professionally as a distinct activity or “program,” rather than an integral part of other 

natural resource management activities such as outdoor recreation, grazing, timber, fire, 

wildlife, wilderness, transportation, and urban area management. 

 

Actions: Cooperators will work through their individual agencies and constituencies, 

units of government, and CWMAs to assure that risk assessments are included in all 

proposed projects and actions that have the potential to introduce or spread noxious weed 

infestations. 

 

Managers will be encouraged to incorporate effective, science based, and ecologically 

sound weed management measures in land use, resource development, and restoration 

plans or in any activity that may involve land surface disturbance. 

 

Provide Statewide Weed Management Program Direction 

 

Issue: State program priorities and direction are important management elements that 

can complement local programs. 

 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

101

Actions: Clarify the criteria and process used to designate state noxious weeds. Use an 

adaptive approach with an objective rating system to determine if weeds should be added 

or removed from the noxious weed list. Assure the designation procedure is compatible 

with the early detection/eradication strategy. 

 

Regularly communicate with surrounding states to identify new and existing weed 

species that pose the greatest risk for expansion in New Mexico. Develop and publish a 

"hot list" of the potentially most dangerous noxious weeds and encourage early detection 

and control. Distribute "alerts" with weed photographs and biological data. 

 

Cooperatively develop a set of recommended statewide prevention practices. Work 

toward broad application of these practices across all lands. Encourage CWMA 

cooperators to develop effective prevention practices and guidelines in local and regional 

management plans. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

102

Appendix – I 

PUBLIC COMMENT 

The draft New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan (NMPlan) was 

available for public comment during a 30 day period ending August 15, 2008. The 

NMDGF issued a press release to local and regional news sources, followed by an email 

to members of the New Mexico AISAC requesting them to post similar information. The 

Associated Press circulated this press release to news outlets nationwide. New releases 

posted on the NMDGF web site are distributed to: 

• Approximately 200 news outlets statewide, including major cities and border 

communities in neighboring states: newspapers, radio and television stations, and 

news organizations. 

• 24 Native American Tribes. 

• Approximately 100 contacts representing civic groups. 

• Approximately 30 contacts representing conservation and sporting groups. 

• All NMDGF employees. 

• State Game Commission. 

• Governor’s office and administration. 

The public comments received are included in this appendix followed by a response 

(bold-faced text) from the AISAC. 

During the 30-day public comment period, the AISAC also requested preliminary review 

of the NMPlan by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force. A summary of the ANSTF 

comments, with responses from the AISAC, is provided below. 

 

Comment #1: Email from Ondrea Hummel: 

From: Hummel, Ondrea C SPA [mailto:Ondrea.C.Hummel@usace.army.mil] 

Sent: Thursday, August 14, 2008 10:27 AM 

To: Lang, Brian, DGF 

Subject: FW: NM AIS Plan comments

Hi Brian - Here are some comments that I got on the plan. Let me know if you have any 

questions. Thanks! 

Ondrea Hummel 

Senior Biologist, Environmental Resources Section 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

103

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

Albuquerque District 

4101 Jefferson Plaza NE 

Albuquerque, NM 87109 

505-342-3375 

505-342-3668 fax 

www.spa.usace.army.mil 

______________________________________________ 

From: Price, Dana M SPA 

Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2008 12:24 PM 

To: Hummel, Ondrea C SPA 

Subject: NM AIS Plan 

Hi Ondrea, 

I looked at the AIS Plan. Very thorough. 

One comment: On p. 23, Strategy 2A, some other ranking methods for invasive species that 

perhaps should be mentioned are: 

 1: TNC/NatureServe: Morse, L.E., J.M. Randall, N. Benton, R. Hiebert, and S. Lu. 2004. An 

Invasive Species Assessment Protocol: Evaluating Non-Native Plants for Their Impact on 

Biodiversity. Version 1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. 

http://www.natureserve.org/library/invasiveSpeciesAssessmentProtocol.pdf 

 2: USGS APRS Implementation Team. 2000. Alien plants ranking system version 5.1. 

Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Online. 

http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/literatr/aprs/index.htm (Version 30SEP2002). 

A few typos I noticed: 

 On p.1, near bottom, second bullet, remove "o" from "ion"; phrase should read "state 

agencies in the AISAC". 

 p. 4, last line, remove comma after "Eurasian watermilfoil" 

 p. 16, last para: subject-verb agreement- either "Mechanical control such as harvesting is 

ineffective" or "Mechanical controls such as harvesting are ineffective" 

 Whole doc., Consistent spelling (watermilfoil vs. water-milfoil or water milfoil; appears all 3 

ways in different places) 

Response to Ondrea Hummel’s Comments: All changes and additions were 

incorporated into the plan.
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

104

 

Comment #2: Email from the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, 

July 15, 2008: 

Using electronic document changes, the MRGCD provided up-to-date information on the 

distribution of several AIS plants in New Mexico, including management and control 

techniques. 

Response to MRGCD Comments: These changes were incorporated into the final 

draft. As a result, hydrilla was moved from Priority Class 1 to Priority Class 2, and 

Arundo (Arundo donax) was added to Priority Class 3. 

 

Comment #3: Email from the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force: 

From: Darren_Benjamin@fws.gov [mailto:Darren_Benjamin@fws.gov] 

Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 12:09 PM 

To: Lang, Brian, DGF; bob_pitman@fws.gov; david_britton@fws.gov; don_maclean@fws.gov 

Cc: Joe_Starinchak@fws.gov 

Subject: Preliminary ANSTF Comments on the NM AIS Plan

Brian - 

Attached are the comments we received in conjunction with the ANS Task Force's (ANSTF) 

preliminary review of the New Mexico State Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan. They 

are provided for your consideration and I hope you find them useful. If you have any questions 

or would like clarification, just let me know. 

1) Comments from Fish and Wildlife Service staff person Don MacLean: 

2) Comments from ANSTF member Herbert Frost, National Park Service: 

3) Comments from ANSTF member Paul Zajicek, representing the National Association of State 

 Aquaculture Coordinators: 

 

1. Overall, a well-written plan that is nicely organized and focused in its goals and 

objectives. Of great benefit to Plan readers, especially folks outside of New Mexico, 

would be to include a New Mexico map and a description of the water resources within 

the state (i.e., major rivers, lakes, man-made impoundments, etc). 

2. The authors have offered control methods for most of the aquatic plants identified 

(Priority 1 species) except hydrilla (page 16). New Mexico uses triploid grass carp in 

concert with other states (Texas and Louisiana) associated with the Rio Grande basin as 

a preferred method to control hydrilla. The several aquatic plants mentioned on page 23 

are also consumed by grass carp. 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

105

3. VHS virulence is limited to waters between 37 and 54°F. The authors may wish to 

discuss the risk VHS poses to NM waters much as they have with the other Priority 1 

species. 

4. There has been a change made to applesnail taxonomy (page 19). The snail they are 

calling the channeled applesnail, P. canaliculata, is more likely the island applesnail P. 

insularum. Both are phytophagous snails. 

5. The silver carp has also been added to the Injurious Species List (page 20). 

6. Surprisingly, many of the state plans do not describe state activities associated with 

current ANSTF supported programs or products. However, on page 29, there is a 

succinct description of New Mexico’s involvement with several ANSTF programs and their 

recognition and participation is very much appreciated. 

7. Strategy 2A, page 33, suggest adding the Generic Nonindigenous Aquatic Organisms Risk 

Analysis Process as a reference document to 2A3; suggest adding a new strategy that 

promotes implementation of Habitattitude with the pet owners, distributors, breeders and 

retailers (also include Habitattitude materials as a component of 6C1); and suggest a 

new strategy that describes the expanded implementation of the Protect Your Waters 

program beyond boat ramp posting that they already described as doing. 

8. In reference to Strategy 6A, I visited the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and 

Science in Albuquerque several years ago and was impressed by the quality of its 

exhibits and information. It would seem that the Museum could be a partner in public 

education efforts. 

Please note that to give the ANSTF members enough time to review the final plan, we must 

receive a copy of the final plan before September 22. This gives the ANSTF members 

approximately 30 days before the ANSTF meeting to review the plan - however, the ANSTF is 

allowed 90 days to approve a plan and if an ANSTF members requests additional time at the 

meeting then that time would be granted. 

Darren Benjamin, Acting Executive Secretary, ANSTF 

http://www.fws.gov/fisheries/

Responses to ANSTF comments: 

1. Overall, a well-written plan that is nicely organized and focused in its goals and 

objectives. Of great benefit to Plan readers, especially folks outside of New 

Mexico, would be to include a New Mexico map and a description of the water 

resources within the state (i.e., major rivers, lakes, man-made impoundments, 

etc). 

Response: A map showing surface waters and major transportation routes in 

New Mexico has been added. 

2. The authors have offered control methods for most of the aquatic plants identified 

(Priority 1 species) except hydrilla (page 16). New Mexico uses triploid grass 

carp in concert with other states (Texas and Louisiana) associated with the Rio 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

106

Grande basin as a preferred method to control hydrilla. The several aquatic plants 

mentioned on page 23 are also consumed by grass carp. 

3. VHS virulence is limited to waters between 37 and 54°F. The authors may wish 

to discuss the risk VHS poses to NM waters much as they have with the other 

Priority 1 species. 

4. There has been a change made to applesnail taxonomy (page 19). The snail they 

are calling the channeled applesnail, P. canaliculata, is more likely the island 

applesnail P. insularum. Both are phytophagous snails. 

5. The silver carp has also been added to the Injurious Species List (page 20). 

Response: Comments #2 – #5 request specific information for Priority Class 

species. This information has been added with supplementary detail where 

appropriate. 

6. Surprisingly, many of the state plans do not describe state activities associated 

with current ANSTF supported programs or products. However, on page 29, 

there is a succinct description of New Mexico’s involvement with several ANSTF 

programs and their recognition and participation is very much appreciated. 

Response: Additional activities have been provided where appropriate to clarify 

current participation and activities. 

7. Strategy 2A, page 33, suggest adding the Generic Nonindigenous Aquatic 

Organisms Risk Analysis Process as a reference document to 2A3; suggest adding 

a new strategy that promotes implementation of Habitattitude with the pet owners, 

distributors, breeders and retailers (also include Habitattitude materials as a 

component of 6C1); and suggest a new strategy that describes the expanded 

implementation of the Protect Your Waters program beyond boat ramp posting 

that they already described as doing. 

Response: All suggestions were incorporated into Strategy 2A3 and Strategy 

6A10. 

8. In reference to Strategy 6A, I visited the New Mexico Museum of Natural History 

and Science in Albuquerque several years ago and was impressed by the quality 

of its exhibits and information. It would seem that the Museum could be a partner 

in public education efforts. 

Response: Change here is reflected in Strategy 6A6. 

Additional comments from the ANSTF provided in email attachments include: 
New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008 

107

• “We encourage the Advisory Council to prioritize action items [“Recommended 

Strategies and Actions”], with an emphasis on prevention, coordination, and 

cooperation.” 

Response: The New Mexico AISAC acknowledges that prioritization of action items 

outlined under “Recommended Strategies and Actions” of the NMPlan is an 

important component of adaptive management. As envisaged under the “Planning 

and Implementation” section of the NMPlan, the AISAC recognizes that AIS 

management strategies and priorities will require constant adjustments in the 

context of spatial and temporal dynamics of the AIS landscape relative to waters of 

the State, shared basins of adjacent states, and regional planning strategies. 

Accordingly, the AISAC preferred not to prioritize action items of the NMPlan. 

• “Are there invasive species that are not yet in NM, but for which there are known 

management techniques? There may or may not, but it does seem to be a 

category which falls between Priority Class 1 and Priority Class 2. This is not 

necessarily a problem, but something that seems to be a gap in the classes. 

Perhaps one of the classes could just be slightly redefined to include species that 

are not yet in NM, but for which there are known management techniques?” 

Response: Priority Class 4 has been redefined to address this recommendation.