# New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan

Prepared by:

New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council

October 2008New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

ii Blank PageNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

iii 

## ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The New Mexico State Aquatic Invasive Sp ecies Management Plan was created by the New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Adviso ry Council. Numerous Federal, State, Tribal, NGOs, organizations, and in dividuals assisted with deve lopment of this plan. We thank all those who contributed to the planni ng 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 th e 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, B ill Graves, Greg Gustina, Richard Hanson, Chuck Hayes, Renae Held, Mark Holla nd, Vincent Homer, Ondrea Hummel, Kelly Jackson, Tony Jacobson, Bob Jenks, Kris J ohnson, Lisa Kirkpatrick, Brian Lang, Marcy Leavitt, Edward Martinez, Greg McReynol ds, Vicki Milano, Marcus Miller, David Moore, Mark Murphy, Yasmeen Najmi, Pete Pa dilla, Leland Pierce, Bob Pitman, Bettina Proctor, Reese Brand Phillips, Kevin Re illy, 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.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

iv 

## 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 DEFINITI ON 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 implemen t a comprehensive AIS management plan......32 Objective 2: Prevent the intr oduction 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 th e risks and impacts of AIS................44

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

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

GLOSSARY ......................................................................................................................5 5

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

APPENDICES ...................................................................................................................63 Appendix A: List of Priority AIS for New Mexico .......................................................63 Appendix B: List of AI S 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 Pl an for Managing Noxious Weeds, 2000-2001..88 Appendix I: Public Comment .....................................................................................102New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

1 

## EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Aquatic invasive (nuisance) species (AIS ) are a growing concern in New Mexico. Having already negatively impacted several na tive 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, a nd natural ecosystems. Recognizing that a coordinated statewide approach is neede d, the involved agencies and organizations collectively propose the New Mexico State Aq uatic Invasive Species Management Plan (NMPlan) as a necessary first step towa rds establishing a workable framework to successfully confront present and future AIS problems in the State.

The federal Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuis ance Prevention and Control Act of 1990, amended by the National Invasive Species Act of 1996, calls for the development of state and regional management plan s to control AIS. Once a st ate plan is approved by the national Aquatic Nuisance Species Task For ce and the Governor, state agencies are eligible to receive federal ma tching funds for activities specified in the management plan. The NMPlan is based on guidance provide d 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 intr oduction, population growth, and dispersal into, within, and from New Mexico.

To achieve this goal the follo wing actions are proposed:

• establish a New Mexico Aquatic Invasi ve 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;New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

2 • devise a rapid-response system for detect ing, investigating, an d eradicating newly reported AIS or populations;

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

• establish a system to coordinate AIS mana gement 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 informati on on environmental and economic impacts posed by AIS, describes pathways of entr y into the state, and identifies existing regulatory authorities and programs that addre ss invasive species at state, regional, and national levels. This plan includes a pr oblem definition and ranking system that identifies AIS priority classes. Ranking AIS based on threat leve l not only facilitates prevention of introductions and mitigation of im pacts, it also enables agencies to direct management strategies and financia l resources more efficiently.

The AIS Management Strategy section lists six objectives wherein problems, current agency activities, and gaps in these authoritie s 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 perfor mance indicators referable to the goal and objectives of the plan. To support and info rm 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, eval uation, and reporting.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

3 

## LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Acronyms and abbreviations used for th e agencies, organizations, and positions implementing AIS strategies and actions on the following pages.

AIS – Aquatic invasive species AISAC – Aquatic Invasive Specie s 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 Immigra tion 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 Preven tion and Control Act NISA – National Invasive Species Act NMBA – New Mexico Border Authority NMDA – New Mexico Department of Agriculture NMDGF – New Mexico Depart ment of Game and Fish NMDH – New Mexico Department of Health

NMDT – New Mexico De partment of Tourism NMDOT – New Mexico Depa rtment of Transportation

NMED – New Mexico E nvironment Department

NMEDD – New Mexico Economic Development Department

NMPED – New Mexico Pub lic Education Department

NMFS – National Marine Fisheries Service NMPlan – New Mexico Aquatic In vasive 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 TribesNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

4 University – University of New Mexic o, 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 Gove rnor’s Association WMD – water management districts

WNV - West Nile Virus WRP – Western Regional Panel

ZM – zebra musselNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

5 

## INTRODUCTION

Introduction of nonnative species to the United States is a growing problem, reported to cost the nation $137 billion annually (Pimente l 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, resulti ng in rapid population increase and range expansion. Nonnative aquatic invasive species (AIS) can be especially detrimental due to the importa nce of the nation’s a quatic and hydrologic resources. As their populat ions expand, AIS often impede municipal and industrial water systems, can cause public health problems, displace native species, degrade ecosystems,

and reduce recreational and comme rcial fishing opport unities. To date, AIS have caused significant ecological and socio-economic pr oblems throughout North America. Costs from damage and controlling nonnative fish al one reach $5.4 billion per year and the cost of controlling aquatic plan ts 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 th e 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 Nuis ance Prevention and C ontrol Act (NANPCA) was passed to address AIS problems in the Un ited States. While programs created by this legislation were initially aimed at problem s in the Great Lakes region, passage of the National Invasive Species Act (NISA) in 1996 established a nationa l goal of preventing new introductions and limiting the dispersal of existing AIS in the United States. Under section 1204 of NISA, states ar e 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, enforcemen t, or financial assistance is

needed to eliminate or reduce the envir onmental, public health, and safety risks associated with ANS. Plan approval allows th e state to receive up to a 75 percent federal cost share to implement a plan. The New Me xico 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 invade rs like water hyacinth and the zebra mussel, respectively, require hundreds of millions of dollars annually for control and mitigation. Relative to neighbori ng states of Arizona, Colorado and Texas, New Mexico has experienced fewer introduc tions of ANS (USGS 2005a), which places our state in an opportune situ ation 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 Me xico, occur in neighboring states (USGSNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

6 2005a). Their arrival is likely either by natu ral expansion via shared drainages or by the ever-increasing movement of recreationists a nd their equipment. As well, New Mexico’s growing aquaculture trade provide s another avenue of introduction of AIS. Perhaps more

subtle is the threat from th e global aquarium trade and an increased interest in the aquacultural industry for food production (tilapia , marine shrimp, Aust ralian crayfish). This situation is in turn complicated by the abundance of suitable aquatic habitat created through the impoundment of rive rs and New Mexico’s warm climate, where escapees, whether intentional or not, ma y establish viable populations.

As a state in the arid Southwest, New Me xico’s approximately 5,948 miles of perennial streams and estimated 482,000 acres of we tlands (CRWUA 2005) are an extremely valuable resource (Figure 1). They provide habitat for wildlife, enrich the lives of the public, and generate income through recreat ion, agriculture and i ndustry. Despite its aridity, New Mexico has a rich and unique aquatic biodivers ity. 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 na tive species and some of these nonnatives can negatively affect native populations

, contributing to their dec line, with 30% of native fish species threatened (Warren and Burr 1994, Boydstun et al. 1995). Several nonvertebrate AIS also threaten New Me xico fisheries. Whirling disease ( Myxobolus

cerebralis ), first recorded in New Mexico in 199 8, can infect stocked rainbow trout and native cutthroats, devastating fisheries. Golden alga ( Prymnesium parvum ), responsible

for extensive fish kills in the lower Peco s River since 1988, was recently reported (2005) in private ponds near Eunice and Roswell.

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

that of 829 taxa of vertebrates known to relia bly 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 Threaten ed 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 freshw ater mussels, the giant floater ( Pyganodon grandis ) and paper pondshell ( Utterbackia imbecillis ), are reported from impoundments (Canadian River, lower Pecos River) a nd in the middle Rio Grande mainstem, respectively. These estab lished 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 detr imental 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 approximatelyNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

7 Figure 1. Surface waters and major tr ansportation routes in New Mexico.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

8 200 to 400 hectares. A year later, 26,800 hectar es were infested. These invasive plants can displace native plants, reduce waterfowl popul ations, and decrease levels of dissolved oxygen in waterbodies, resulting in fish di e-offs (Frodge et al . 1995). New Mexico’s extensive network of irrigation systems is pa rticularly threatened by AIS. Eurasian watermilfoil and Brazilian waterweed impede water flow and clog pumps and intake pipes. In Washington state, about $1 m illion is spent annually to control Eurasian watermilfoil. In New Mexico, where water resources are scarce and agriculture is heavily dependent on irrigation, economic im pacts from these types of AIS could be costly. Invasive aquatic plan ts can slow water movement, cr eating stagnant pools that are ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This potentially compounds the impact from another introduced species, West Nile Vi rus (WNV), a mosquito-v ectored 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 de aths in 2004. Additionally, horses and several species of wildlife are at risk fr om WNV. Economically, costs of WNV can be high. In 2002, 329 cases were reported in L ouisiana with an estimated cost of $20.1 million (Zohrabian 2004).

The few species described above and their im pacts offer a glimpse of the present and future problem posed by AIS in the st ate, underpinning the need to develop a comprehensive plan to address AIS relate d 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 additiona l damage to economic and environmental resources from the impacts of AIS already pr esent. The NMPlan provides a framework for coordinating efforts to prevent additio nal 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 update d 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 fr om 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 pr ivate sector to serv e on the New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory C ouncil (AISAC). The AISAC revised the preliminary draft plan and subsequently soli cited 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 integrati ng existing AIS activities, including theNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

9 development and implementation of new progr ams. 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 authorit y over all aspects of AIS management, but many agencies have programs and responsibil ities that address aspects of the problem, such as importation, interstate transport, exclusion, contro l, and eradication. Federal activities on AIS management are coordina ted through the National Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force (NANSTF). In February 1999, President Clint on 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 Pres ident's Executive Order, the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Ac t (NANPCA), and the National Invasive Species Act (NISA) is provided below. A dditional 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 Mexi co 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 mini mize their impacts through better coordination of federal agency efforts under a National I nvasive Species Management Plan to be developed by an interagency Invasive Speci es 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 Preven tion 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 pr event 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), th e Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Army Corps of Engineers (CoE), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) share res ponsibilities for implementi ng this effort. They actNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

10 cooperatively as members of the nationa l Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force (ANSTF). The purposes of NANPCA are:

• to prevent unintentional in troduction 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 activit ies regarding the zebra mussel and other ANS;

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

and control unintentional intr oductions of nonindigenous species from pathways other than ballast water exchange;

• to understand and minimize economic and ecological impacts of nonindigenous ANS that become established, incl uding zebra/quagg a 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 authori zed to submit comprehensive management plans to the Task Force for approval that iden tify areas or activities for which technical

and financial assistance is needed. Grants are authorized to states for implementing approved management plans, w ith a maximum federal share of 75% of the cost of each comprehensive management plan. The state (or private) contribu tion 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 expa nd 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, pl anning, and an infrastructure for action.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service programs The USFWS provides federal funding for im plementation 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 mu ssels and other AIS in the 100th meridian jurisdictions of the West a nd 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 a nd education, 2) voluntary boat inspections and boater surveys, 3) involvement of those who haul boats for commercial purposes, 4) monitoring, 5) rapid respons e, and 6) evaluation.

This Initiative represents the first large- scale concerted effort, working with resource agencies (federal, state, provi ncial), tribal entities, potenti ally affected industries andNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

11 other interested parties, to begin addre ssing the pathway to pr event the spread of zebra/quagga mussels. The success of this In itiative 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 100 th 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 strategi es 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 in to western North America. This panel includes representatives from federal, stat e and local agencies, including private, environmental, and commercial interests.

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

• identify Western Region priori ties for responding to ANS;

• make recommendations to the federal ANS Task Force regarding an education, monitoring (including inspection), preventi on, and control program to prevent the spread of the zebra/quagga mussels west of the l00th Meridian;

• coordinate, where possible, other ANS progr am 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 indivi duals and entities c oncerning 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.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

12 Western Governor’s Association (WGA)

The WGA was established in 1984 to addres s key policy and governance issues common to the 18 Western states, two territories a nd one commonwealth. In June of 1998, the association passed Resolution 98 -018, Undesirable Aquatic and Terrestrial Species, for the purpose of developing and coordinating stra tegies and management actions to control and prevent the spread and in troduction of undesirable specie s; 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 I nvasive 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 Paci fic Division, Albuquerque District (CoE) The CoE is currently involved in more than 30 projects throughout th e 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 re present watersheds that comm only cross state and tribal

boundaries. A coherent strate gy 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 th e Clean Water Act and other authorities. With the myriad of authorities and regulations that apply to wa ters of this region, it is of critical importance that there exists a well-coordinated strategy for AIS problems that commonly transcend juri sdictional boundaries.



### State

In New Mexico, state and local agencies can pl ay a major role contro lling the spread of nonnative species. States have authority to de cide which species can be imported and/or released. However, the U.S. Constitution ve sts the power to regulate international and interstate commerce to Congress. Federal law may preempt st ate law, but states retain almost unlimited power to define which spec ies 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).New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

13 New Mexico Border Authority (NMBA) The New Mexico Border Authority overs ees development and promotion of our International Ports of Entry located at Sant a Teresa, Columbus, and Antelope Wells. The NMBA seeks to create partnerships with public and private stak eholders involved in international trade activities, travel (busin esses, tourists), a nd dissemination of information related to regulati ons and procedures affecting le isure 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, administ ers pesticide use laws through product registration, applicator licensing, and inspec tions; directs pest detection surveys, quarantines, and regulates the sale of live plan ts and cut flowers; pr ovides dairy farm and plant inspection permitting; regu lates 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 in jury or damage to any plan ts or parts thereof or any processed, manufactured or other products of plants. This provision includes the authority to quarantine all or part of the stat e, 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 transpor ted with the plant, including but not limited to the phyla arthropoda, mollusca or nema thelminthes as well as weeds, fungi, bacteria, viruses or parasitic plants, wh ich cause pathological or detrimental physiological conditions in plants. This pr ovision also includes the authority to regulate the transport into the state and th e 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 dissemin ation of a harmful pl ant in the state. "Harmful plant" means any plant, seeds or ot her parts of a plant th e board declares by regulation to be a harmful pl ant. This provision includes the authority to quarantine all or part of the state, as well as any do mestic livestock, captive wildlife or captive stray animals suspected of exposure to a ha rmful 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] au thorizes the state to

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

feed" means all materials whic h are distributed for use as feed or for mixing in feed for animals other than man, except: (1) unm ixed 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] authoriz es the regulation of sale and transport of seeds into and within the st ate. Inclusive, is the authority to regulate labeling and allowable limits of noxious weed seeds. "Noxious weed seeds" includes prohibited noxious weed seeds and restrict ed noxious weed seeds. "Prohibited

noxious weed seeds" are seeds of weed s 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 w eeds 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 sp ecies 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 include s the authority to inspect any facility or ground where noxious weed seeds are sol d, 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 pest icide applicators, including aq uatic pesticides. It also provides for training and educat ion of pesticide applicators. The administrative rules of this Act require special training and ma nagement 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 agricultu ral issues analyses, cooperative predatory and wild animal and rode nt pest program, and supervises farm and range improvement fund activities, and the soil and water conservation program.

• The New Mexico Livestock Code, Articl e 15 Predatory Animals and Rodent Pest [77- 15-1 to 77-15-5] authorizes the state to c ooperate 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 st ate’s waters to protect the health and welfare of the peopl e of the state and to preser ve 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 re sponsible for administering and enforcing the state boating laws and regulatio ns on all waters in the state. Other functions include waterways management planning, maintaini ng boating facilities for state parks, administering the state boating accident da tabase, 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 wate rs. 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 domes ticated fowl or fish from government hatcheries, is subject to approval by th e NMDGF under NMSA 17-3-32. Shipment of game animals, birds and fish to officers of other states is regu lated 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 AI SAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team.

New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) The basic authority for water quality mana gement 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 attach ed 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 administ ration of loans and grants fr om the federal government, the adoption of water quality standa rds, and the adoption of regul ations "to prevent or abate water pollution in the state or in any speci fic 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 Inte rstate and Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC] included components directly and indi rectly applicable to AIS in New Mexico. Factors affecting growth of undesirable aqua tic life [20.6.4.13 E] a nd the application of piscicides [20.6.4.13 F] are addressed.

New Mexico Economic Development Department (NMEDD) The NMEDD focuses on growing economic-based bus inesses 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 th e management and control of AIS within

New Mexico. Under State stat utes, 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, bu ild, and maintain a quality state-wide transportation network which will serve th e social and economic interests of New

Mexico’s citizens. NMDOT focuses on most m odes of travel (trans it, rail, aviation and highways), with a commitment to traffic sa fety, 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 a nd current visitors by fulfilling requests for information, by offering statewide visitor inform ation centers, and through the efforts of the marketing, advertising and media relati ons. The Department works with local communities to establish funding in regiona l advertising and cooperative marketing programs; and has a strong presence in volunteer activities statewide, from helping with non-profit organizations to its annual litte r awareness campaign. The NMDT does not have any policies addressing AIS issues.

Interstate Stream Commission (ISC) The ISC is overseen by the State Engin eer, who has power over supervision, measurement, appropriation, and distributi on of all surface and groundwater in New Mexico. The ISC is specifical ly responsible for statewide water planning and protecting New Mexico’s right to water unde r 8 interstate stream basins . The ISC participates in special projects to address a variety of inte rests 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 activ e 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 st ate's water resources, and has authority over the supervision, measuremen t, appropriation, and distri bution of all surface and groundwater in New Mexico, including streams and rivers that cr oss 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. Th e ISC is an active participant on the New

Mexico AISAC and the Rio Grande Basin Team.

New Mexico Strategic Plan for Ma naging 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 newNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

17 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Th e 18 July 2001 MOU draws together all levels of land managers to participate a nd support Coordinated Weed Management Areas (CWMAs) in New Mexico. All signatories of the agreement will participate in the CWMAs to: inventory, manage, prevent, a nd 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 Mexi co Strategic Plan for Managing Noxious Weeds, as a basis for coordination. The signa tories, in this stat ewide effort, include: federal and state agencies, the m ilitary, and many tribal councils.



## PROBLEM DEFINITION AND RANKING

For centuries humans have intentionally transp orted 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 intr oductions of nonnative species have been beneficial, providing food, cl othing, and recreational opportu nities for humans. For example, NMDGF uses nonnative speci es 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 Me xico anglers in 2001 recorded almost 2.5 million fishing days and spent over $211 m illion, 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 inva sive species as outlined in Executive Order 13112 on Invasive Species , signed by President Clinton on Februa ry 3, 1999. This order states that an “invasive species” is a nonna tive species whose introduction into an aquatic ecosystem causes or is likely to cause harm to the econom y, 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 th e degree of negative impacts AIS species may have upon the State’s environment, industr y, and economy. Negative impacts include:

• fouling of water intakes, contro l structures, and irrigation pumps;

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

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

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

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

• increased safety concerns for swimmers;

• economic impact to water-bas ed operations of industr y and to recreationists;

• decrease in property values;

• alteration of freshwater nu trient 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 a quatic taxa listed as state or federally threatened or endangered.

When dealing with invasive species, preven tion is always the preferred goal, as “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure .” Prevention is ach ieved by blocking the introduction of AIS into the state or, if alr eady present, to isolate the problem in its current location. In order to achieve this, it is critical to desc ribe 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 be tween source and uninvaded environments; proximity of source population of AIS to uninvaded areas; presence of established pathways of introduction; and presence of threatened native sp ecies in areas of potential

introduction.

Ranking AIS based on threat level not only facilitates preventi ng introductions and mitigating impacts, it enables management agencies to direct limited financial resources more efficiently. In recogniti on of the known threats, impact s, 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 immediat ely 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. Th e following are examples of species targeted by the NMPlan. This listing is not comprehensiv e, but is provided to illustrate species in each priority class.



### AIS Priority Classes

Priority Class 1
Priority Class 1 species are currently not know n to occur in the wild in New Mexico, but have a high potential to inva de and for which there are limited or no known management techniques. Appropriate management for this class includes prev ention of introductions and eradication of pioneering popu lations. 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 consid ered 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 th e degradation of natural hab itats by shading native plants, reducing available dissolved oxygen, and cr eating large amounts of decaying plantNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

19 material. The mats may grow up to three f eet thick, hindering management by chemical control; giant salvinia reproduces so rapidly that infestatio ns 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 Brazi l, 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. Hu man transport will likely spread giant salvinia locally, with plants adhering to and carried overland on anything entering infested waters, including boats, trailers, vehi cular wheels, and other gear. In the US, it has been observed in at least 12 states, includ ing Arizona and Texas. Its expected range includes USDA hardiness zone 7a, which encomp asses 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 plan ts 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 successf ully as a biocontrol agent in several countries, and is being releas ed as part of control efforts in the Lower

Colorado River as well as Texas and Louisiana. Triploid (sterile) gr ass carp have proven as an effective biocontrol agent for AIS plan ts in New Mexico, Te xas, 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 Amer ica, India, New Zealand, and North America (Canada, southern US, western states [A Z, CA, CO, OR, TX, WA ]). Water hyacinth grows over a wide variety of wetland type s from lakes, streams, ponds, waterways, ditches, and backwater areas. This free-floa ting perennial plant is a very aggressive

invader and can form thick mats that interf ere with navigation, r ecreation, irrigation, and power generation. These mats competitivel y exclude native submerged and floatingleaved plants. Low oxygen conditions devel op beneath water hyacinth mats which can impede water flow and create good breeding co nditions 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 appe arance, 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 degr ees 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 e ffective biocontrol agent for AIS plants in the

Rio Grande basin of New Mexic o. Three insects have been re leased as biological control agents of water hyacint h (two weevil species [ Neochetina spp.] and a moth [ Sameodes albiguttalis ]), but have not proven efficacious for la rge 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 dipotassiu m 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.protectyourwa ters.net/hitchhikers/plan ts_water_hyacinth.php

.

Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) Virus

VHS virus occurs in both marine and fres h water environments. VHS is indigenous to eastern and western Europe, Japan, and the Pa cific 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, wh ere in 2005 and 2006 a highly virulent and easily transmissible strain (IVb) caused massi ve die-offs of native fishes (e.g., muskies, northern pike, walleye, lake whitefish, fr eshwater 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 tr ansmitted between fish via their urine and reproductive fluids; it cannot enter eggs and in fect fish before hatc hing. Virus particles in the water infect gill tissue first, and th en move to the intern al organs and the blood vessels, causing hemorrhages in the internal or gans, 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 ra re above 60o F. The

virus becomes inactive after 24 hour s at 68oF in water, but can persist in water for five days at 39o F. Such viral virulence is we ll within surface water temperature regimes in New Mexico, thus underpinning thr eats 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 cu lture from frozen Pacific herring after two freeze/thaw cycles in a conven tional freezer. Waterfowl might al so play a role in moving the virus, but it does not su rvive passage through the gut of birds. In the hatchery environment, mechanical transfer of VHS vi rus on animate or inanimate objects presents

a substantial hazard. The virus has been isol ated from feral fish in waters receiving hatchery effluent, and can persist in water fo r 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 Anal ysis 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-o ffs of game fishes could be profound. The effects of VHS to endangered species conser vation and commercial fisheries could be equally significant. F or 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 eas tern 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 Bl ack 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 mu ssels spread to Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska. In January 2007, quagga mussels we re discovered in lakes Mead, Havasu and Mojave on the lower Colorado River and in tw o major aqueducts that supply water to

southern California and Arizona. In N ovember 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 (veliger s) 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 Montan a, Arizona, and New Hampshire. Live zebra mussels have been found at California agricult ural check stations on boats hauled from

the Midwest. These instances underscore the importance of human-mediated dispersal of these AIS, which have likely been trans ported across New Mexico’s borders. Both mussels are prolific fouling organisms w ith great potential to cause ecologic and economic damage in the southwestern re gion (Kennedy 2007). Surface waters of New Mexico are fully capable of supporting and sust aining 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 na tive to northern and eastern Africa and southeastern Asia, it presently inhabits s ubtropical 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 purposef ul 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 introduc tions, 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 se rves 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 f ound 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 fromNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

22 piscivorous birds (Green Heron, Gr eat Egret) in Texas. In th e 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 partic ularly germane for native species, as known fish hosts include eight families (Centrarchidae, Characidae, Cyprinidae, Cyprinodontidae, Ictaluridae, Percidae, Percic hthyidae, Poeciliidae) represented in New Mexico, including federal and state listed species (Pecos gambusia, Mexican tetra, greenthroat darter). The gill trematode is ca rried 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 endemi c populations of hydrobiid snails of New

Mexico.

The red-rim melania can be purchased in ma ny pet shops and over the internet. This species flourishes in waters with salinity fr om 0 to 30 ppt and temperatures from 18 to 32oC—physicochemical regimes typical of surf ace waters of New Mexico. Eradication using molluscicides has proven effective in or namental fish ponds, but such pesticides are of limited use in larger th rough-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 quater nary ammonium solution (10 ppm for 24 hrs.).

New Zealand Mudsnail ( Potamopyrgus antipodarum ) Native to New Zealand, this species was di scovered in 1987 in the middle Snake River, Idaho. They are now found in all western stat es, except New Mexico. These tiny snails (~7 mm long) are parthenogenic (c lonal) livebearers with a high reproductive potential. Densities of mudsnails can be extremely high (300,000 to 750,000 snails/m 2 ). Potamogyrpus antipodarum has been shown to alter appreciably primary production in

some streams. Limited research has doc umented 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) a nd aquatic researchers who may contact infested waters as high-risk transport agents for spreading popul ations 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 Braz il, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Applesnails were introduced to Southeast Asia around 1980, as a local food resource and potential gourmet export item. The market s never developed, applesnails escaped or were released, and they became a serious agri cultural pest in ri ce fields throughout many Indo-Pacific countries (Cowie 2005). Human-mediated disp ersal 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 res earch (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 morp hological 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 Sna il.” Snails of the genus Pomacea are not native to New Mexico, but are sold in-sta te 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 nativ e aquatic vegetation leading to habitat modification, as well as competitive interactio ns 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 fi sh for spawning areas, food, and space, as well as potential vectors for parasites and di seases. Populations of various species of tilapia are established in Arizona and Texas where these invasions have coincided with reductions of native fish sp ecies. Tilapia (possibly Tilapia aurea ) was introduced into New Mexico at two locations prior to 1990 as fish stockings. While these populationsdid not survive, the NMDGF has received and approved importation requests for smallscale, contained food industry opera tions at two facilities in th e 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 i llegally and have spread into nearly every state in the US. Bighead and silver carps are spreading ra pidly 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 a quatic ecosystems. They can weigh up to 100 pounds, and can grow to a length of more th an four feet. Asian carps may out-compete native fish, causing severe hardship to local fishing industr ies. Boaters have been injured by silver carp jumping out of the water and into or ove r boats in response to outboard motors. Researchers anticipate that Asian carps pose many threats to native fish and aquaticNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

24 ecosystems. Silver and bighead carp compet e 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 Se rvice 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/invasi ve_species/asian_carp.html

.



### Priority Class 2
Priority Class 2 species are present and estab lished in New Mexico, but with impacts that may be mitigated or controlled through appr opriate 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 protozoa n parasite that affects the nervous system of salmonids. This parasite has a two-host life cycle: sa lmonids and a common aquatic worm. A freeswimming stage enters young trout and attacks the car tilage, eventually crippling the fish. The whirling disease parasite was first introduce d to the United States from Europe in the 1950s, probably in infected trout. The dis ease spread as these infected trout were distributed among hatcheries or we re 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 waters heds: the rainbow tr out population in the Madison River has declined by 90% since th e 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 poten tial economic impact to the state’s trout fisheries is great and minimizing spre ad 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 De pt. 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 ne gative effects of the Asian tapeworm on carp are well known and it now appears the paras ite is pathogenic in native fish. In Arizona younger age classes of bonytail chub ( Gila elegans ) infected with the Asian tapeworm were stunted and when stre ssed 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 para site is very difficult in aNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

25 large waterbody, therefore it is crucial to fo cus 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 re ported from Sandoval County. Introduction of hydrilla into new waterbodies is most likely to occur by re creational boats and equipment carrying plant fragments from infested hab itats. Elsewhere in the US, hydrilla has

reached 40 o N latitude, therefore it has the potent ial 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, wh ich can result in fl ooding and damage to canal banks, structures, and pumps. In u tility cooling reservoirs , hydrilla can disrupt flows necessary for adequate water-cooling. In addition to interfer ing with recreational and commercial vessel navigation, hydrilla hampers swimming, alte rs 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 (triploi d) grass carp could be an effectiv e biocontrol agen t for hydrilla, as this management technique has proven efficaci ous for AIS plants in the Rio Grande basin

of New Mexico.

Purple Loosestrife ( Lythrum salicaria )
Purple loosestrife, an erect pe rennial herb with showy flower s, 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 wetla nds. As this species establishes and expands , it outcompetes and replaces nati ve 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 w ildlife 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, th e edges of ponds, lakes, and reservoirs, and wet meadows. It reproduces vegetatively a nd 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 stat es, though 24 states have listed itas a noxious weed and prohibit its sale. Small infestations can be managed by handpulling or herbicide application. Physical re moval 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 ha ve 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 redu cing plant populations by as much as 100%. TheNew 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, nut ria 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 Mexic o. Due to the ecological and economic impact they cause, nutria have been nominated for th e Invasive Species Sp ecialist 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 introdu ced ranges often results in an overabundance of nutria. At high population le vels, nutria impact nativ e species, such as muskrat ( Ondatra zibethicus ), through competition, consumption of native plants, and transformation of vegetated we tlands 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 met hods. Invasive plant risk assessment and ranking methods are available to fa cilitate impact analyses (e.g., http://www.natureserve.org/library/i nvasiveSpeciesAssessmentProtocol.pdf and http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/reso urce/literatr/aprs/index.htm ). Examples of species addressed under this pr iority class are:

Chytrid fungus ( Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis ) Chytridiomycosis is an infectious disease th at affects amphibians worldwide. Caused by the chytrid fungus, chytridiomycosis is capab le of causing sporadic deaths in some amphibian populations and 100% mortality in others. Amphibian chytrid fungus is hypothesized to have originated in Africa, a nd 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 inves tigation. Chytrid fungi typically live in water or soil, although some are parasites of plants and insects. They reproduce asexually and have spores that “swim” thr ough the water. Only the amphibian chytrid fungus is known to infect vertebrate species. Individual frogs are t hought to contract the

disease when their skin comes into contact with water that contains sp ores. Much is still unknown about the biology of the fungus and th e disease in the wild, including how the fungus survives in the absence of amphi bian populations, and how it spreads.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

27 Interactions between the fungus and environmen tal factors which may in turn affect the physiological response of infected indi viduals 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 de veloped in North America, Europe and New Zealand (Spading and Elwell 2007). It has been introduced into several western states, including California, Colorado, Id aho, 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 m eans, such as on boats, fishing equipment, and footwear. It appears to prefer oligotr ophic 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 vari ous factors, including climatic changes, altered grazer communities, or gene tic changes. Didymo can undergo explosive growth creating massive algal blooms, which can significantly impact stream ecosystem function, including the ability to alter biot ic community structure, foodweb dynamics, and hydraulics of streams and ri vers. Didymo represents a significant strain on regional and national economies through impacts to tourism, fisheries, and hydropower.

In collaboration with the US Forest Se rvice and Trout Unlimited, state agencies (NMDGF, NMED) are monitoring the didymo invasion in the upper Pecos watershed, and have posted streamside Stop Aquatic Hi tchhikers! signage and information urging anglers to remove, disinfect, and dry all fishing tackle a nd 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 sp ring. On large water bodies it is virtually impossible to eradic ate. The NMDGF is currently monitoring golden alga and is investigati ng 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 thei r 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 ha bitat and impede recreational use. TheseNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

28 species reproduce rapidly. Plant fragments cap able of establishing new colonies when disturbed by recreational activ ity, and are easily transporte d to new waterbodies through fouling of boat props and traile rs. These plants infest ma ny drainages in New Mexico. Of these, Eurasian watermilfoil is the most wi dely distributed, occurring in at least seven drainages (Little Colorado, Rio Grande Head waters, Rio Grande Elephant Butte, Upper Canadian, Upper Cimarron, Upper Gila, and Upper Rio Grande). Arundo is a bamboolike perennial grass that infests riparian area s, floodplains, and irriga tion ditches. This aquatic plant is established in Sandoval, Be rnalillo, Guadalupe, Sierra, Dona Ana, and

Otero counties of New Mexico. Parrotfeather is present in Bernali llo, 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 introduc tion can include rel ease as live-bait or forage base by anglers, intent ional release of aquarium pets or school study organisms, and escapees from aquaculture. Nonnative cr ayfish possess many characteristics of a successful invader: habitat generalists, br oad dietary preference s, high reproductive potential, and aggressiveness towards othe r species (Kats and Ferrer 2003). As omnivores, crayfish forage on plants and invertebrates, non-consumptively destroy aquatic vegetation, prey upon vari ous 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 de trimental 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 eradicat e or control introd uced populations of crayfish have not been developed adequately.

Asian Clam ( Corbicula fluminea )

Asian clams have had one of the most ra pid range expansions of any non-indigenous species in North America. Corbicula fluminea is found in lotic and le ntic habitats over its native range in southeastern Asia (China, Ko rea, southeastern Ru ssia). 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 re servoirs in 38 states (Balcom 1994). This species was first reported in the Mesill a Valley of Texas and New Mexico in 1964 (Metcalf 1966), and is now found in suitabl e 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 th roughout the US, especi ally in agricultural and industrial water distribution systems. Asia n clams are drawn into intake pipes. Live animals, empty shells and body tissues obstr uct water flow through irrigation gates and canals, condenser tubes, valves, and servic e water systems. Buoyant dead clams clog

intake screens. In 1980, the costs of co rrecting 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/m 2 ), concerns exist for the capacity of the Asian clam to alter trophic and nutrient dyna mics of aquatic systems and to displace

native bivalves.

Humans are responsible for the di spersal 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-mediat ed transport, inadve rtent or intentional releases (e.g., anglers, aquari sts, classroom researchers), a nd 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 wa ter-based industrial systems in clude chemical, thermal, and mechanical treatments. Annual drying of irrigation canals may effectively control populations in water delivery systems. E nvironmentally sound methods of removal or control in surface waters have not been developed.

Bullfrog ( Rana catesbeiana ) The bullfrog is one of the most widely di stributed amphibians on the North American continent. The species has been introdu ced widely throughout the West (Rosen and Schwalbe 1995). In New Mexico, bullfrogs occu r statewide at lower elevations wherever

suitable habitat exists. The status of bullfr og populations across the state is unclear: those

west of the Continental Divide are introduce d, whereas those east of the Divide may be introduced or native (Degenhardt et al. 1996) . As generalist pred ators and prolific breeders, they are thought to compete with and prey on native anurans, and may be the

cause of localized extinctions of native wetla nd herpetofauna (Dege nhardt 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 curr ently considered to have a low potential to invade and establish, either because of physiological or dispersal limits. These species warrant proactive m easures to prevent their importation or

introduction to the State. Research is reco mmended to evaluate their invasive potential, including management techniques that may prove effective elsewhere for naturalized populations. Examples of species addresse d 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 areasNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

30 where this goby has become abundant. The ro und 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 ov erland transport on equipment (e.g., zebra or quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnail).

Australian Crayfish (Family Parastacidae) All nine genera of Australian crayfish bel ong to the family Parastacidae. Among this diversity of taxa, which exceeds 100 species, Au stralia has some of the most colorful, lavishly ornamented, and largest species of freshwater crayfish in the world. Such physical attributes have attract ed commercial interests in this resource for aquaculture, food, and pet trade industries, not only in Aust ralia, but in similar markets worldwide. Three species, the yabby ( Cherax destructor ), redclaw (C . quadricarinatus ) and marron ( C. tenuimanus ), are exploited commercially for in ternational 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, Al abama. 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 rel ease (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-establi sh in aquatic habitats throughout New Mexico; many of these systems represent waters heds shared with adjacent states where invasive crayfish are problematic (e.g. Ar izona; see Fernandez and Rosen 1996a, b, c). In New Mexico, surface waters derived fr om thermal groundwater sources (Summers 1976) are capable of supporti ng 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 confer s increased product marketability to the aquaculture, pet/aquarium, f ood, 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, econ omic, and social impac ts resulting from the presence of AIS in New Mexico are precluded or minimized through prevention and management of introduc tion, population growth, and dispersal into, within, and from New Mexico.

To achieve this goal the follo wing actions are proposed:

• establish a New Mexico Aquatic Invasi ve 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 detect ing, investigating, an d eradicating newly reported AIS or populations;

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

• establish a system to coordinate AIS mana gement 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 st rategy understand that it is a non-binding statement of consensus. This plan is intended as a ge neral understanding a nd 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 great er 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 andNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

32 contingencies that may develop. Consequentl y, the NMPlan is intended to be adaptable to changing circumstances. Although all strategi es and actions identified in this plan are important, the formation of the AISAC and fund ing to support the Coor dinator are critical to effective AIS management in New Mexico. Activities and priorities of the NMPlan

will be under continual review. An annual re port 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, NM DA, NMDGF, NMDH, NMED, and OSE. Other state agencies are listed parent hetically where their expertis e 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-prof it, legally constituted organization created by private persons or organizations with no participation or repr esentation of any government. The term “municipalities” (MUN) includes entities of governance by

counties and cities. The term “Private” ma y include, but is not necessarily limited to: citizens, business, lake associations, outdoor recreation groups, watershed groups, marinas, etc. The term “water manageme nt districts” (WMD) pertains to quasigovernmental agencies that ma nage and distribute water.

In accordance with the federal guidelines set forth by ANSTF, the NMDGF developed a preliminary draft AIS management plan and th en 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 a nd revision of the draft NMPlan. During a 30- day public comment period, repr esentatives from all stakeh older groups and potentially affected publics were requested to advise the AISAC regarding revisions of the plan, including their role(s), management tasks, and financia l responsibilities as tentatively

identified under the Objectives and Implementation Table

.



### Objective 1: COORDINATE AN D IMPLEMENT A COMPREHENSIVE

AIS MANAGEMENT PLAN.

Problem Addressed: Threats posed by AIS have not b een 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 limiti ng and managing AIS. When the issue is undertaken, most management activities ar e focused on isolated problems and do not approach AIS in a comprehensive, intera gency 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 manageme nt of AIS. Most importantly, native species and their habitats, in addition to the state’s ecologi c 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 Managi ng Noxious Weeds, 2000-2001. The NMDA has developed a strategy for addres sing weed problems in New Mexi co. The Weed Plan is a multilateral agreement between federal and state agencies, and local organizations. Currently, the Strategic Plan for Managing N oxious 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 Nu isance Species Task Force and the 100 th

Meridian Initiative. AIS activities to date include: attending WR P meetings, annual correspondence with the ANSTF regarding agency and state-level AIS actions, responding to regional and national AIS surv eys coordinated through the ANSTF and the WGA, distribution of AIS education and outreach materials (zebra mussel and New Zealand mudsnail watch cards, bait bucket bum per stickers), and co llaborative 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 th e NMPlan. NMDGF implements its own Integrated Pest Management Plan for noxi ous 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 ag encies to increase the awareness of existing and potential AIS issues in New Mexico. Since then the

Coordinator has served an influential ro le directing and supporting current efforts towards development of the NMPlan, implem entation of prevention and early detection programs, and dissemination of public information and outreach materials.



### Gaps in State Manageme nt Programs and Authorities

• Existing authorities under the New Mexico Administrative Code do not adequately

address current issues related to AIS.

• Many of these authorities ar e 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 coordinate d 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 par ties will need to be determin ed 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 pu blic interest groups.



### Strategy 1A: Coordinate all AIS ma nagement programs and activities

within New Mexico.

1A1. Organize and administer the New Mexi co Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Council (AISAC). (Gov, State, Trib es, 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 issu es. (Gov, Leg, AISAC, State, Fed)

1A3. Identify and coordinate with key personnel in state, federal and tribal governments, and private, MUN and WM D 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 strategi es for dealing with them as listed by priority class. (Coord, AISAC)

1A5. Consult with the ANSTF Executive Secr etary 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 n eeded 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 a lternatives. (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 AI S management in New Mexico by seeking federal funding from the NISA, state legi slature, 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 AI S 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 IN TRODUCTION OF AIS INTO NEW

MEXICO.

Problem Addressed: There are many different pathwa ys by which new species can arrive in New Mexico. Species that provide sport fishing opp ortunities, erosion control, food, and aesthetic enjoyment have been intentionally brought to New Mexico and released into the wild or escaped from priv ate ponds or holding fac ilities. 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 preven ting introductions. Although, factors such as proximity to source populations of AIS and si milarities in habitat requirements make it possible to assess some of the species which pose a threat of inva ding New Mexico, little is known regarding most of the potential AIS an d their pathways into the state. Yet, the

most effective method to control AIS and thei r impacts is to preven t their introduction.

Implementation of a program that reviews a nd regulates which speci es 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 appropr iate authority to design and implement a prevention program.

• Limited authority and funding to quaranti ne species and points of origin.

• Limited authority, funding, and staff to enforce laws relating to AIS.

• New plant species are not revi ewed before importation.

• No coordinated inspection pr ogram 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 la unch into state waters during water-based activities (e.g., fishing tourna ments, boating events, etc.).

• Limited collaboration between state author ities 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 orde r or internet sale s 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 fede ral agencies, tribal authorities, private industry, and public interest groups.



### Strategy 2A: Research and address po tential AIS and their pathways of

introduction.

2A1. Review existing AIS programs from othe r 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 iden tify high-risk water bodies. (Coord, AISAC, University)

2A3. Develop a system for pr ioritizing AIS with the greate st threat of unintentional

introduction. The EPA’s Guidelines fo r 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 prohib ited AIS for distribution to agencies, enforcement authorities, MUN, and WMD. (Coor d, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed)

2A6. Develop and implement an inspecti on program for trailered boats and waterbased equipment entering and travel ing in New Mexico. (Coord, AISAC, EMNRD, NMDGF, NMDPS, NMDOT)

2A7. Establish a boat washing program to re duce 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 in to uncontrolled environments. (Coord, AISAC, NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD, APHIS, Private)

2A9. Develop and implement a Hazard An alysis and Critical Control Point (HAACCP) planning strategy for hatchery, field, and survey crews to minimize

the risk of unintentional hitchhiking AIS introducti ons. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed, Tribes, WMD)

2A10. Inform Governor, Legislature, and st aff (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, includi ng gaps in current rules, regulations, and policies. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed)

2B2. Based on gaps identified in 2B1, fund e xpansion of State regul atory authorities to increase prevention, control, and eradicat ion 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 AI S laws. (All LE authorities: State, Tribes, Fed)

2B5. Train enforcement personnel on AI S identification, state regulations, and watercraft inspection and decontaminati on methods. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed)

2B6. Distribute information on AIS laws to businesses that impor t or sell aquatic organisms. (Coord, State [NMEDD], Tribes, Fed)

2B7. Increase awareness of existing penalt ies for the intentiona l introduction of any nonindigenous species to New Mexico’s waters. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes, Fed)

2B8. Assess efficacy of existing AIS regul ations and penaltie s and revise when necessary. (Coord, AISAC, State, Tribes)



### Strategy 2C: Promote legislation a nd regulations that establish or increase the state's authority to control the introduction of new species.

2C1. Establish the authority to stop, in spect, 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 impor tation 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 erad ication. (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 di seases, parasites, and other unpermitted hitchhiking organisms. (Fed, EMNRD, NMDA, NMDGF, Tribes)

2C5. Develop or amend existing cooperat ive agreements with adjacent states, including Mexican states, sharing comm on waters to address AIS. (Gov, Leg, Coord, ISC, OSE, adjacent states [AZ, CO, KS, OK, TX, Chihuahua]).

2C6. Develop legislation and rules to prev ent the introduction of AIS into private ponds, including increased authority to inspect ponds, remove AIS species and provide penalties for illegal introducti ons of AIS into private ponds. (Gov, Leg, State, Private)



### OBJECTIVE 3: DETECT, M ONITOR, AND ERADICATE

PIONEERING AIS.

Problem Addressed: When an invasive species ar rives there is often a window of opportunity to eradicate small pioneering populations before they become established orNew 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 inst ances 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 econ omic and environmental impacts.

By initiating a monitoring program and rapid response plan, the State will be able to detect and manage pioneering in festations at a point when th e 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 bodi es and take measures to reta rd 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 with in and across the state boundary, and actively manages some na turalized AIS and pioneering populations that may affect native wildlife. By a dopting a policy of “not-knowingly-stocking whirling disease positive fish,” the Fisher ies Management Division has implemented a statewide monitoring program to track (GIS-based mapping) the st atus of this parasite in infested and uninfested salmonid populations, wh ile also testing for presence of whirling disease in hatchery stock and in native a nd managed trout populations. Staff of the Nongame and Endangered Species Program, ta sked 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 promulgate d under NMSA Chapter 17 pertaining to importation and movement of fish and wildlif e. 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 100 th Meridian Initiative, and annual meetings of the 100 th 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 unde sirable aquatic life [20.6.4.13 E NMAC]. These surveys include biological monitoring that could potentially address AIS concerns. See

Standards for Interstate and Intr astate 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 O ffice, in collaboration with the Region 2 ANS Coordinator, US Army Corps of Engin eers and NM State Parks, initiated a zebra mussel monitoring program at three state pa rks (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., Okla homa), propensity for high boater traffic and angler use, and unique boating opportunities (i.e., sail boatin g, bass tournaments). There is no confirmed report of ZM or QM in Ne w Mexico waters. Notwithstanding, ZM are now (2008) reported in Colorado, approximately 90 miles north of the state line. Under

the 100 th Meridian Initiative, stakeholders fr om New Mexico and Colorado formed (2007) the Rio Grande Basin Team to: iden tify zebra/quagga mu ssel threats to Rio Grande resources, detect and monitor drei ssenid 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 Era dication Programs and Authorities

• Current AIS monitoring efforts are inadequate.

• Authority to quarantine is not comp rehensive 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 surveillanc e and early detection program.

3A1. Identify high-risk water bodies. (C oord, 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 surv eillance of high-risk water bodies and associated water delivery infrastructure(s). (State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, WMD)

3A4. Encourage and train citizen-based m onitoring networks to work in cooperation with state and federal agencies and tribal entities. (Coord, ASIA C, State, Tribes, Fed, NGO, Private)

3A5. Under the Standards for Interstate and Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC], develop criteria (human health, dom estic 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 res ponse mechanism to deal with detected and potential AIS.

3B1. Develop a Rapid Response Plan for AIS species. (Coord, AISAC)

3B2. Identify funding sources to implem ent 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 a ddress 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 FEASIB LE, 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 direct ed at limiting the impacts of a population or stopping that population from spr eading to new waterbodies.

In situations where AIS have previously invaded, manage ment 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 popul ations is economically and technically feasible.



### Current Activities

New Mexico Department of Agriculture NMDA conducts surveys for agricultural and in vasive pests and plants. The Department has the authority to quarantine water bodies a nd 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 with in and across the state boundary, and actively manages some na turalized and pioneering AIS populations that may affect native aquatic wildlife and im portant 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 Erad ication Programs and Authorities

• No state agency has a clear program direct ed at controlling or eradicating AIS.

• There is no AIS Coordinator to organize stat e 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 re duce 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, a nd 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 ex tent 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 seve ral 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 read ily and easily accessible to agency personnel and the public. A centralized “hotline” system for reporting the pres ence 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 erad ication for established AIS need to be pursued in coordination with ot her 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 e ngaged in AIS education and outreach. The Public Information and Outreach Division (PIO) disseminates AIS information and educational materials through state-federa l match programs (Project Wild/Aquatic, Fishing Skills, Fisheries Monitoring/Waters hed Watch) and Natural History Workshops designed as teacher enrichment opportunitie s. 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 a nd 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 th e NMDGF and currently administered by Conservation Management In stitute of Virginia Tech, provides information on the biology and distribution of anim als in New Mexico, including AIS. Other information

for AIS is maintained within files of indivi dual biologists regarding impacts to various species of protected wildlife.

Federal Agencies Numerous federal agencies (e.g., USFWS, USGS, USDA) and othe r 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 repositor y 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 releva nt websites and agencies. (Coord, University, Fed)

5A3. Utilize existing field personnel to doc ument the distribution and abundance of AIS. (State, Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO, Private, WMD, University)

5A4. Develop and maintain a list of taxonom ic 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 understa nding of life histor ies and impacts of introduced aquatic plants and animals. (Coord, Stat e, 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 vect ors of disease and parasites to humans and native aquatic wildlife. (Coor d, State [NMHD], Tribes, Fed, University)



### Strategy 5C: Research alternativ e 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, estab lishment, and impacts. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University)

5C2. Investigate and develop new and i nnovative methods of managing AIS. (Coord, State, Tribes, Fed, University)

5C3. Evaluate herbicide and pesticide effects. (Coord, Stat e, Tribes, Fed, University)



### OBJECTIVE 6: INFORM THE PUBL IC, 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 al ien species pose and the role humans play in the transport and in troduction 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 introdu ced 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 inten tionally imported ones. Many policymakers, natural resource administrators, and private interest groups have facilitated the intentional introductions of species for certain ec onomic or recreational purposes without understanding the effects thes e species would have on nativ e species. Introductions,

either intentional or uninten tional, can be eliminated or curtailed by educating people of their potential to tran sfer nonindigenous species to New Me xico. 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 Colora do 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 peopl e 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 Fi sh and State Parks (EMNRD)

NMDGF and EMNRD, working in collaborati on with the USFWS, have posted “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers” signage (boat ramp, stre am fishing) at public access points on state and federal lands, and each agency distribute s 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 garn ered 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 agen cy and private personnel about AIS.

• Few efforts involve potentially inte rested citizens in AIS issues.



### Recommended Strategies and Actions Strategy 6A: Inform the public abo ut AIS, and how their actions can help prevent the spread and re duce the impacts of AIS.

6A1. Incorporate AIS information into boa t operator and hunter a nd angler education classes. (NMDGF, EMNRD)

6A2. Create an educational curriculum on AIS for schools. (C oord, AISAC, State [NMPED], Tribes)

6A3. Create an “AIS Traveling Trunk” m odeled 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 se rvice 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 va rious state museums, conferences, shows, tournaments, public gatherings, and sporting goods vendors. (Coord, State [NMEDD, NMTD], Tribes, Fed, M UN, NGO, Private, WMD)

6A7. Include information on AIS in stat e hunting, fishing, and boating regulations. (NMDGF, EMNRD)New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

46 6A8. Develop a “New Mexico Friendly” plan t labeling system in conjunction with the nursery industry. (Coor d, 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 w ith sporting groups and conservation organizations to foster outreach and educational activities relating to AIS, including providing information, trai ning, 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 se minars for field personnel of state, federal, tribal, and municipal governments. (Coord, St ate, Tribes, Fed, University)



### Strategy 6C: Inform private industry on AIS identification, their effects, and the laws regulating them.

6C1. Create and distribute pamphlets for th e nursery industry, pet stores, bait dealers

and other relevant busine sses identifying AIS, the la ws regulating them, and their effects in natural systems. (Coord, State [NMDGF, NMEDD, NMDA], Fed)

6C2. Provide information on AIS to fish ing tournament orga nizers. (Coord, NMDGF, EMNRD, Fed)

6C3. Identify and provide AIS information to all other persons or businesses operating on water bodies. (Coord, State [EMN RD, NMDGF, NMDA, NMEDD], Tribes, Fed, Private)New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200847IMPLEMENTATION TABLEThe following table identifies tasks and responsibilities of stakeholders.Funding required to carryoutthe proposed actions will bedetermined in conjunction with assessments from cooperating State and Federal agencies. Funds for implementing the NMPlan willbe administered by the Coord as a member of the AISAC. Although all actions identified in theNMPlan are important, formationofthe AISAC and funding to support the Coord are critical to effective AIS managementin New Mexico. The Coord will seekadditional funding to implement other elements of the NMPlan. This model has proven effective inthe state of Washington and isunder development in Arizona and implementation in Oregon.Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTEObjective 1: Coordinate and implement a comprehensive management plan.Strategy 1A: Coordinate all AIS managementprograms and activities within New Mexico1A1 Organize AISACGov, State, Tribes, Fed,NGO, Private, MUN,WMDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -1A2 Create & fund CoordGov, Leg, AISAC, State,FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -1A3Identify & coordinate with federal, tribal &private support staffGov, Coord, AISAC,State, Tribes, Fed, NGO,Private, MN, WMDState 0 0 0 01A4 AIS list Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - 0 0 01A5 AIS terms & definitions Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - 0 0 01A6 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 - USFWS - - -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 - USFWS - - -1B2 100th Meridian Initiative Gov, Coord, AISAC See 1A2, State - USFWS - - - See 1A2, State - USFWS - - -New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200848Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTE1B3 Interstate & Mexican coordinationGov, Coord, AISAC,NMBA, ISC, OSESee 1A2, State - See 1A2, State -Strategy 1C: Increase existing funding resources for AIS management andestablish new funding and resources.1C1 Pursue stable fundingCoord, AISAC, State,TribesState -1C2 Develop private partnershipsCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, NGOSee 1A1 & 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 -Strategy 1D: Review and evaluateState efforts addressing AIS.1D1 Assess AIS statusCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, MUN,MWDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -1D2 Update NMPlan Coord, AISAC See 1A1& 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 -Object 1: TotalsObjective 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 - USFWS2A2 Invasion pathways &high-risk waterbodiesCoord, AISAC,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2A3 AIS ranking systemCoord, AISAC,UniversityState - USFWS - - -2A4 Research imported plantsEMNRD, NMDA,APHIS, UniversityState - APHIS - - - State - APHIS - - -2A5 Prohibited AIS listCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState - State -2A6 Boat inspection programCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState - State -2A7 Boat wash stationsAISAC, EMNRD, BoR,CoE, Tribes, USFWS,USNPS, Private(marinas)State -FederalAgencies- - - State -FederalAgencies- - -New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200849Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTE2A8 Work with importersCoord, AISAC, NMDGF,NMDA, NMEDD,APHIS, PrivateState - State -2A9 Field personnel planCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, WMDState - State -2A10 Inform agency & organization staffCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState -FederalAgenciesState -FederalAgenciesStrategy 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 regulations & permitting authoritiesCoord, AISAC, State,TribesState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B2 Expand state permitting program Gov, Leg State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B3 Seek additional permitting authorityCoord, AISAC, State(EMNRD, NMDGF,NMDA), TribesState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B4 AIS law enforcementAll LE authorities: State,Tribes, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B5 Train enforcement personnel Coord, State, Tribes, Fed State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B6 Distribute information to importersCoord, State (NMEDD),Tribes, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -2B7 Publicize penaltiesCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState - State -2B8 Examine regulations & penaltiesCoord, AISAC, State,TribesStrategy 2C: Promote legislation and regulatory rules that establish or increase the state's authority to control the introduction of new species.2C1 Authority to detain Gov, Leg, State, Tribes2C2 Increase import regulation Gov, Leg, State, Tribes2C3 Authority to quarantine Gov, Leg, State, Tribes2C4 Disease & pest free importsEMNRD, NMDGF,NMDA, TribesNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200850Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTE2C5 Interstate & Mexican cooperative agreementsGov, Leg, Coord, ISC,OSE, AZ, CO, KS, OK,TX, Chihuahua2C6Legislation to prevent AIS introduction toprivate pondsGov, Leg, State, PrivateObject 2: TotalsObjective 3: Detect and eradicatepioneering aquatic invasive species.Strategy 3A: Implement a surveillance and early detection program.3A1 Identify high-risk waterbodiesCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, NGO,UniversitiesState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -3A2 Develop monitoring/surveillance programCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed3A3Conduct monitoring/surveillance of high-riskwaterbodies & water delivery systemsState, Tribes, Fed, MUN,MWD3A4 Encourage citizen-based monitoringCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, NGO,PrivateState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -3A5Develop criteria for impairment of surfacewater quality standards due to undesirableaquatic life (AIS)State (NMED, NMDGF) State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Strategy 3B: Develop an early response mechanism to deal with detected and potential AIS.3B1 Develop Rapid Response Plan Coord, AISAC State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -3B2 Identify funding for Rapid Response Plan Coord, AISAC See 1A1 & 1A2 - See 1A1 & 1A2 -3B3 Implement Rapid Response PlanCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO,WMD, PrivateState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -3B4 Develop HAACCP plansCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Strategy 3C: Eradicate pioneering populations of AIS.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200851Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTE3C1Develop eradication program for pioneeringAISCoord, AISAC State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -3C2Implement eradication program for pioneeringAISCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, MUN, NGO,WMDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Object 3: TotalsObjective 4: Where feasible, control or eradicateestablished AIS that have a significant impact.Strategy 4A: Limit the dispersal of established AIS into new waterbodies or into new areas of a waterbody or drainage.4A1 Boat wash stationsCoord, AISAC, State,Fed, TribesState -FederalAgencies- - - State -FederalAgencies- - -4A2 Limit access to AIS populationsCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,PrivateState -FederalAgencies- - - State -FederalAgencies- - -4A3 AIS information & signageCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,MUN, WMDState -FederalAgencies- - - State -FederalAgencies- - -Strategy 4B: Limit the dispersal of established AIS to new waterbodies or to new areas of a waterbody.4B1 Control Priority Class 2 & 3 AISState (EMNRD,NMDGF, NMDA),Tribes, Fed, MUN,WMDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Object 4: TotalsObjective 5: Increase knowledge of AIS in New Mexico through compiling data and conducting research.Strategy 5A: Facilitate the collection and dispersal of information, research, and data on AIS in New Mexico.5A1Create AIS database & reference materialrepositoryCoord, AISAC,University, FedState - USGS - - - State - USGS - - -5A2 Maintain AIS database & website Coord, University, Fed State - USGS - - - State - USGS - - -5A3 Document AIS distribution & abundanceState, Tribes, Fed, MUN,NGO, WMD, Private,UniversityStateSee 1A3-FederalAgencies- - -StateSee 1A3-FederalAgencies- - -5A4 Maintain list of AIS taxonomic experts Coord, AISAC - - - - - - - -New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200852Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTEStrategy 5B: Research AIS for their impact on native biota utilizing regional efforts & literature searches.5B1 AIS life history & impactCoord, State, Fed, Tribes,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -5B2 Continue monitoring native aquatic biotaState, Tribes, Fed,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -5B3 Evaluate AIS as vectors (disease, parasites)Coord, State (NMHD),Tribes, Fed, UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Strategy 5C: Research management alternativesfor their effect on AIS and native species.5C1 Investigate AIS & anthropogenic relationshipsCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -5C2 New AIS management methodsCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -5C3 Herbicide & pesticide effectsCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Object 5: TotalsObjective 6: Inform the public, policy makers, natural resource workers, private industry, and user groups about the risksand 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.6A1Include AIS information in hunter/boaterclassesNMDGF, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A2 Education curriculumCoord, AISAC, State(NMPED), TribesState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A3 AIS Traveling TrunkCoord, AISAC, NMGF,EMNRDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A4 Press releases & PSAsCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A5Produce articles, videos, billboards, TIS, webmedia, AIS ID cardsCoord, AISAC, State(NMEDD), Tribes, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200853Objectives/ActionsFunding (in thousands) and Personnel RequestsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotals#DescriptionImplementingOrganizationAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTE6A6 Distribute AIS informationCoord, State (NMEDD,NMTD), Tribes, Fed,MUN, NGO, Private,WMDState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A7Include AIS information in hunting, fishing &boating regulationsNMDGF, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A8 Develop "NM Friendly" plant labeling system Coord, NMDA, EMNRD State - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A9 In form decision makers about AISCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, NGO6A10 Network with aquatic education programsCoord, AISAC, EMNRD,NMDGF, NMED, NGO,PrivateState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6A11Foster outreach with sporting & conservationorganizationsCoord, AISAC, State,Tribes, Fed, NGO,PrivateStrategy 6B: Train natural resources personnel in AIS identification.6B1 AIS Identification seminarsCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,UniversityState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Strategy 6C: Inform private industry in AIS identification, their effects, and the laws regulating them.6C1 Nursery, pet store and bait dealer pamphletsCoord, State (NMDGF,NMDA, NMEDD), FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6C2 Provide information at fishing tournamentsCoord, NMDGF,EMNRD, FedState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -6C3 Distribute AIS information to othersCoord, State, Tribes, Fed,PrivateState - USFWS - - - State - USFWS - - -Object 6: TotalsFY 09FY 10State and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsState and OtherFundsFederalFundsTotalsAgency$Agency$$FTEAgency$Agency$$FTENMPlan 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 perfor mance indicators referable to the goal and objectives of the NMPlan. To support and in form implementation of this plan, it is recommended that the AISAC adopt a philo sophy of adaptive management in which monitoring and evaluation are employed to m easure progress toward achieving the goal, to assess the efficacy of prioritized strate gies to meet the stated objectives, and to maintain awareness of and adapt to cha nging information or conditions. Program monitoring and evaluation will require oversight, evaluation and reporting.

Oversight
The AISAC will be responsible for coordina ting the oversight process to inform all stakeholders of the progress towards implemen ting the plan. The role of AISAC will be

to examine the level of achievement on tasks id entified 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 implementati on. The evaluation proc ess may also require revisions to the NMPlan, which will be the sh ared 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 objec tives of the NMPlan.

The Coordinator and the AISAC will prepar e and disseminate a 5-year AIS program status report to all stak eholders. 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 whos e introduction into an aquatic ecosystem causes or is likely to cau se 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 characte ristic 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 inva sive species populations, preventing spread of invasive species from areas where they are present.

Ecological integrity: the extent to which an ecosys tem 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 subs tantially 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 sh ould be less than the impact of the AIS.).

Eradicate (extirpate): the act or process of eliminating an invasive species.

Intentional introduction: an introduction made delib erately by humans, involving the purposeful movement of a species outside of its natural range a nd 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, exo tic) a species, subspecies, or lower taxon occurring outside of its natural range (past or pres ent) 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 a nd 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, includ ing springs, ponds, lakes, reservoirs, streams, rivers, canals, and irrigation ditches.

Watershed: an entire drainage basin includi ng all living and non living components.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

57 

## LITERATURE CITED

American Sportfishing Asso ciation. 2001. Economic Impact of Sportfishing. http://www.asafishing.org/asa/statistics/economic_impact/state_reports_freshwater.html

Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force. 2005. Guidance for state and interstate Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plans. Arlington, VA. http://www/anstaskforce.gov.state_guidance.htm

Balcom, N.C. 1994. Aquatic immigrants of the Northeast, No. 4; Asian clam, Cobicula fluminea . Connecticut Sea Grant College Program. http://www.sgnis.org/publicat/nespp_4.htm

Benson, A. 2006. Melanoides tuberculatus . USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL. http://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/ FactSheet.asp?speciesID=1037

Boydstun, C., P. Fuller, and J.D. Williams. 1995. Nonindigenous fish. Pp. 431-433, In LaRoe, E. T., Farris, G. S., Puckett, C. E ., Doran, P. D., and Mac, M. J., editors. Our living resources: a report to the nation on the distribution, abundance, and health of US plants, animals, and ecosystems. Depa rtment of the Interi or, National Biological Service, Washington, D.C.

Bronson, C.H. 2002. Apple Snails. P. canaliculata : Tropical and Subtropical Agricultural Pest. Techni cal Bulletin Number 3:9.

Brouder, M.J., and T.L. Hoffnagle. 1997. Di stribution and prevalence of the Asian fish

tapeworm, Bothriocephalus acheilognathi , in the Colorado River and tributaries, Grand Canyon, Arizona, including two ne w host records. Journal of the Helminthological Society of Washington 64:219-226.

Carlson, C.A. and R.T. Muth. 1989. The Colorado River: lifeline of the American Southwest. Proceedings of the internationa l large river symposium, Canadian Special

Publication of Fisheries a nd Aquatic Sciences 106:220-239.

Carter, J., and B.P. Leonar d. 2002. A review of the l iterature on the worldwide distribution, spread of, and e fforts to eradicate the coypu ( Myocastor coypus ). Wildlife Society Bulletin 30:162-175.

Clarkson, R.W., A.T. Robinson, and T.L. Hoffnagle. 1997. Asian tapeworm ( Bothriocephalus acheilognathi ) in native fishes from the Little Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona. Great Basin Naturalist 57:66-69.

Colorado River Water Users Association. 2005. New Mexico. http://www.crwua.org/nm/crwua_nm.htmNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

58 Courtenay, W.R., Jr., D.A. Hensley, J.N. Ta ylor, and J.A. McCann. 1984. Distribution

of exotic fishes in the con tinental United States. Pp. 41-77, In Distribution, Biology, and Management of Exotic Fi shes, eds. W.R. Courtenay, Jr . and J.R. Stauffer, Jr. John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. 430 pp.

Cowie, R.H. 2005. Pomacea canaliculata . Global Invasive Species Database. http://www.issg.org/d atabase/species/ecology.asp?si=135&fr=1&sts =

Cowie, R.H., K.A. Hayes, and S.C. Thiengo. 2006. What are appl e snails? Confused taxonomy and some preliminary resolution. Pp. 3-23, In R. C. Joshi & L. S. Sebastian (eds.), Global advances in ecology and management of golden apple snails. Philippine Rice Research Institute, Nueva Ecija.

Cox, G.W. 2001. An Inventory and Analysis of the Alien Plant Flora of New Mexico.

The New Mexico Botanist No. 17.

Davis, D. 2008. Reconnaissance report for si te inspection to Pecos River and Panchuela Creek. Surface Water Quality Bureau, New Mexico Environment Department, Santa Fe, NM. 5 pp.

Degenhardt, W.G., C.W. Painter, and A.H. Pr ice. 1996. Amphibians & Reptiles of New Mexico. University of New Me xico Press, Albuquerque. 431pp.

de Moor, I. 2002. Potential impacts of alien fr eshwater crayfish in South Africa. African Journal of Aquatic Science 27:125-139.

Federal Register. 2007a. Injurious Wildlife Species; Silver Carp ( Hypophthalmichthys

molitrix ) and Largescale Silver Carp ( Hypophthalmichthys harmandi ). 50 CFR Part 16, RIN 1018–AT29. 72(131):37459-37469.

Federal Register. 2007b. Injurious Wildlife Species: Black Carp ( Mylopharyngodon piceus ). 50 CFR Part 16, RIN 1018–AG70. 72(201):59019-59035.

Fernandez, P.J., and P.C. Rosen. 1996a. A microcosm study of the effects of an introduced crayfish ( Orconectes virilis ) on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and herpetofauna from Arizona. In : Effects of the introduced crayfish Orconectes virilis on native aquatic herpetofauna in Arizona. Final Report, IIPAM Project No. I94054. Heritage Program, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Phoenix, AZ.

Fernandez, P.J., and P.C. Rosen. 1996b. Effects of an introduced crayfish ( Orconectes

virilis ) on the stream habitat of th e Chiricahua leopard frog ( Rana chiricahuensis ) at Three Forks, White Mountains, Arizona. In : Effects of the introduced crayfish

Orconectes virilis on native aquatic herpetofauna in Arizona. Final Report, IIPAMNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

59 Project No. I94054. Heritage Program, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Phoenix, AZ.

Fernandez, P.J., and P.C. Rosen. 1996c. Evidence for crayfish effects on Sonoran mud turtles ( Kinosternon sonoriense ) and associated fauna in a central Arizona stream. In : Effects of the introduced crayfish Orconectes virilis on native aquatic herpetofauna in Arizona. Final Report, IIPAM Project No. I94054. Heritage Program, Arizona Game and Fish Department, Phoenix, AZ.

Frodge, J.D., D.A. Marino, and G.L. Thomas. 1995. Mortality of largemouth bass ( Micropterus salmoides ) and steelhead trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ) in densely vegetated littoral areas of Lake Washington and Keevie s Lake, Washington tested using in situ bioassay. Pp. 343-358, In Pauley, G. B. and S. A. Bonar, editors. The Biology, Management and Stocking Ra tes of Triploid Grass Carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella , and Their Effects on Plant Community, Fish Assemblage, and Water Quality of Several Pacific No rthwest Lakes. Final Report to the Washington Department of Ecology.

Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission. 2003. Fact sheet for Melanoides tuberculata (Muller, 1774). http://www.nis.gsmfc.org/nis_factsheet.php?toc_id=144

Howells, R.G. 2003. Pomacea canaliculata : channeled apple snail: releases threat on U. S. Agriculture and Aquatic Environments. ANS Digest 5 (1).

Kats, L.B. and R.P. Ferrer. 2003. Alien pred ators and amphibian declines: review of two

decades of science and the transition to conservation. Diversity and Distributions

9:99-110.

Kennedy, T. A. 2007. A Dreissena risk assessment for the Colorado River Ecosystem. U. S. Geological Survey , Open-File Report 2007-1085.

Kilroy, C. 2004. A new alien diatom, Didymosphenia geminata (Lyngbye) Schmidt: its biology, distribution, effects and potentia l risks for New Zealand fresh waters. Prepared for Environment Southland by Nati onal Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, Ltd. http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pest s-diseases/plants/didymo/didyoschmidt-report.pdf

Kuperman, B.I., V.E. Matey, M.L. Warburton, & R.N. Fisher. 2005. Bothriocephalus acheilognath infection of fish in southern California. http://www.werc.usgs.gov/sandiego/pdfs/warburton3623.pdf

Lang, B.K. and P. Mehlhop. 1996. Distribution of freshwater mussels (Unionidae) of the Canadian River drainage: New Mexico and Te xas. Segment I. Survey of freshwater bivalve mollusks of the Canadian River, New Mexico. Final Report submitted to the National Biological Service, State Partnership Program, Washington, D.C.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

60 Lodge, D.M., C.A. Taylor, D.M. Holdich, and J. Skurdal. 2000a. Nonindigenous crayfishes threaten North American freshw ater biodiversity: lessons form Europe. Fisheries 25(8):7-20.

Lodge, D.M., C.A. Taylor, D.M. Holdich, and J. Skurdal. 2000b. Reducing impacts of exotic crayfish introductions: new pol icies needed. Fisheries 25(8):21-23.

Lodge, D.M., S. Williams, H.J. MacIsaac, K.R. Hayes, B. Leung, S. Reichard, R.N. Mack, P.B. Moyle, M. Smith, D.A. Ando, J.T. Carlton, and A. McMichael. 2006. Biological invasions: recommendations for U.S. policy and management. Ecological Applicat ions 16(6):2035-2054.

Marsden, J.E., and D.J. Jude. 1995. Round gobi es invade North America. Fact sheet produced by Sea Grant at Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.

Masser, M.P. and D.B. Rouse. 1997. Au stralian red claw crayfish. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn Univ ersity, Southern Regional Aquacultural Center, SRAC Publication No. 244.

McCann, J.A. 1984. Involvement of the Ameri can Fisheries Society with exotic species, 1969-1982. Pp. 1-7, In Distribution, Biology, and Mana gement of Exotic Fishes, eds. W.R. Courtenay, Jr. and J.R. Stauffe r, Jr. John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. 430pp.

Metcalf, A.L. 1966. Corbicula manilensis in the Mesilla Valle y of Texas and New Mexico. The Nautilus 80(1):16-20.

Mitchell, A.J., R.M. Overstreet, A.E. Goodw in, and T.M. Brandt. 2005. Spread of an exotic fish-gill trematode: a far-reaching and complex problem. Fisheries 30(8):11-

16.

Mitchell, D S. and N.M. Tur. 1975. The rate of growth of Salvinia molesta ( S.

auriculata Auct. ) in laboratory and natural cond itions. Journal of Applied Ecology

12:213-225.

New Mexico Department of Fish and Game. 2004. New Mexico Wildlife News. June

10.

New Mexico Department of Fish and Ga me. 2005. New Mexico Wildlife News. February 28.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

61 Pimentel, D., Lach, L., Zuniga, R., an d Morrison, D. 2000. Environmental and Economic Costs of Non-indigenous Species in the United States. BioScience 50:53-

65.

Pimentel, D. 2003. Economic and Ecological Costs Associated with Aquatic Invasive Species. Pp. 3-5, In Proceedings of the Aquatic Inva ders of the Delaware Estuary Symposium. Malvern, Pennsylvania. May 20, 2003.

Rawlings, T.A., K.A. Hayes, R.H. Cowie, and T.M. Collins. 2007. The identity, distribution, and impacts of non-native apple sn ails in the continental United States. BMC Evolutionary Biology 7:97.

Rhodes, K., and C. Hubbs. 1992. Recovery of Pecos River fishes from red tide fish kill.

Southwestern Naturalist 37:178-187.

Rosen, P.C., and C.R. Schwalbe. 1995. Bullfrogs: introduced predators in southwestern wetlands. Pp. 452-454, In Laroe, E.T., G.S. Farris, C.E. Puckett, P.D. Doran, and M. J. Mac, editors. Our Living Resources: A Report to the Nation on the Distribution, Abundance, and Health of U.S. Plants, Anim als, and Ecosystems. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Biologica l Service, Washington, D.C. 530 pp.

Sinclair, R.M. 1971. Annotated bibliography on the exotic bivalve Corbicula in North America, 1900-1971. Sterkiana 43:11-18.

Spalding, S. and L. Elwell. 2007. Increase in nuisance blooms and geographic expansion

of the freshwater diatom Didymosphenia geminata : recommendations for response. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and Federation of Fly Fishers, White Paper, 33 pp.

Summers, W.K. 1976. Catal og of thermal waters of New Mexico. New Mexico Bureau of Mines & Minerals. Hydrologic Report 4. 79 pp.

Taylor, C.A., M.L. Warren, Jr., J.F. Fitzpatric k, Jr., H.H. Hobbs III, R.F. Jezerinac, W.L. Pflieger, and H. W. Robison. 1996. Conserva tion 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 th e United States and Ca nada after 10+ years

of increased awareness. Fisheries 32(8):372-389.

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005a. Nonindige nous 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. Nonindige nous Aquatic Species (NAS) information

resource. http://salvinia.er.usgs.gov/html/predicted_range.html

U.S. Geological Survey. 2005c. Nonindige nous 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, Fish eries: Aquatic and Endangered Resources (FAER) Progra m. Volume IV, Issue 1, Spring.

Utah Department of Agriculture. 1997. A quaculture 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 a quatic invertebrates in Puerto Rico and implications for the management of nonindi genous 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, Louisian a, 2002. Emerging Infectious Diseases (serial on the Internet). http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol10no10/03-0925.htmNew 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 non indigenous 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 Spec ies (NAS) information database, NMDGF BISON-M list, agency reports, and the publishe d literature. Taxa listed below reflect records of single specimens, establishe d populations, eradicated populations, failed stocking attempts or introducti ons, 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 spec ies names indicates a hybrid taxon. The “origin” of these species is m odeled after terminology in McCann (1984) but

modified here as: nonnative (NN)

− any species (alien, nonindige nous, 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 NNNew 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 TNew 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, fore ign, 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 noti ce 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 pub lic 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, partic ularly 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 techni cal 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 undertak en to reduce infestati ons of aquatic nuisance species. Each plan shall— (A) identify and describe State and lo cal programs for environmentally sound prevention and control of the targ et aquatic nuisance species; (B) identify Federal activities that ma y be needed for environmentally sound prevention and control of aquatic nuisance sp ecies and a description of the manner in

which those activities shoul d be coordinated with St ate 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 a ny State or Indian Tribe involved in the interstate organization) pr otect public health, propert y, 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 mana gement plan, the State or interstate organization should, to the maximum extent practicable, involve local governments and regional entities, Indian Tribes, and public and privat e 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 a ppropriate official of an interstate organization, the Task Force or the A ssistant Secretary, as appropriate under paragraph (1), may provide technical a ssistance in developing and implementing a management plan. (4) PLAN APPROVAL -- Within 90 days afte r 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 subsect ion or return the plan to th e Governor or the interstate organization with reco mmended 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 subs ection shall include an identification and description of the best management practices and measures which the State proposes to utilize in implemen ting an approved management plan with any Federal assistance to be pr ovided under the grant. (3) FEDERAL SHARE — (A) The Federal share of the cost of each comprehensive management plan implemented with Federal assistance under th is section in any fi scal year shall not exceed 75 percent of the cost incurred by the State in implementing such management program and the non–Federal sh are 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 th is section in any fi scal year shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost incurred by the State in implementing such management program and the non–Federal sh are 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 car ried out with a grant in any fiscal year shall not exceed 5 percent of the am ount of the grant in that year. (5) IN–KIND CONTRIBUTIONS -- In addition to cash outlays and payments, in–kind contributions of prope rty or personnel services by non–Federal interests for

activities under this se ction may be used for the non–Feder al share of the cost of those

activities. (c) ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE -- Upon request of a Stat e 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 C ode, 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 A quatic 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.), Endange red Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), and other pertinent statut es, to prevent the introduction of invasive species and provide for their control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive sp ecies cause, it is ordered as follows:

Section 1. Definitions.

(a)"Alien species" means, with respect to a pa rticular ecosystem, any species, including its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biologi cal material capable of propagating that species, that is not nativ e to that ecosystem.

(b) "Control" means, as appropriate, erad icating, suppressing, reducing, or managing invasive species populations, preventing spread of invasive species from areas where they are present, and taking steps such as re storation of native species and habitats to reduce the effects of invasive specie s and to prevent further invasions.

(c) "Ecosystem" means the complex of a comm unity 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, historical ly occurred or current ly 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 al lied groups of organisms.

(i) "Stakeholders" means, but is not limited to, State, tribal, and local government agencies, academic institutions, the sc ientific community, nongovernmental entitiesNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

70 including environmental, ag ricultural, and conservation organizations, trade groups, commercial interests, an d private landowners.

(j) "United States" means the 50 States, the Di strict of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and all possessions, territories, and the territorial sea of the United States.

Sec. 2. Federal Agency Duties. (a) Each Fe deral 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 appropri ations, and within Administration budgetary limits, use relevant programs and authorit ies to: (i) prevent the introduction of invasive species; (ii) det ect and respond rapidly to and control populations of such species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manne r; (iii) monitor invasive species populations accurately and reliably; (iv) provide for re storation 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 a nd 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 sp ecies 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 bene fits of such actions clearly outweigh the potential harm caused by invasive species; a nd that all feasible and prudent measures

to minimize risk of harm will be ta ken in conjunction with the actions.

(b) federal agencies shall pursu e the duties set forth in this section in consultation with the Invasive Species Council, consistent w ith the Invasive Speci es Management Plan and in cooperation with stakeholders, as appropriate, and, as approved by the Department of State, when Federal ag encies are working with international organizations and foreign nations.

Sec. 3. Invasive Species Council. (a) An I nvasive Species Council (Council) is hereby

established whose members shall include the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the Secr etary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the

Administrator of the Environmental Protecti on Agency. The Council shall be Co-Chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, the Secret ary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Commerce. The Council may invite additiona l Federal agency representatives to be members, including representatives from sub cabinet bureaus or offices with significant responsibilities concerning inva sive species, and may prescr ibe special procedures for their participation. The S ecretary of the Interior shall, wi th 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 esta blish an advisory committee under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App., to provide information and advice for consideration by the Council, a nd 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 secti on 5 of this order. The advisory committee shall act in cooperation with stakeholde rs and existing organizations addressing invasive species. The Department of the In terior shall provide th e administrative and financial support for the advisory committee.

Sec. 4. Duties of the Invasive Species C ouncil. The Invasive Species Council shall provide national leadership regardin g invasive species, and shall:

(a) oversee the implementation of this order a nd see that the Federal agency activities concerning invasive species are coordina ted, 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 Mana gement of Noxious and Exotic Weeds, and the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources;

(b) encourage planning and action at local, tr ibal, State, regional, and ecosystem-based levels to achieve the goals a nd objectives of the Management Plan in section 5 of this order, in cooperation with stakeholders a nd existing organizations addressing invasive species;

(c) develop recommendations for internat ional 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 th ey 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 con cerning invasive species, including, but not limited to, information on distribution a nd abundance of invasive species; life histories of such species and invasive ch aracteristics; economic, environmental, and human health impacts; management t echniques, 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 Mana gement Plan. (a) Within 18 m onths after issuance of this order, the Council shall prepare and issue the fi rst edition of a Nati onal Invasive Species Management Plan (Management Plan), whic h 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 ag encies and stakeholders.

(b) The first edition of the Management Pl an shall include a review of existing and prospective approaches and authorities fo r 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 recomm end measures to minimize the risk thatintroductions 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 ri sk-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 biennial ly and shall concurrently evaluate and report on success in achieving th e goals and objectives set forth in the Management Plan. The Management Plan shall identify the personnel, other resources, and additional levels of coordi nation needed to achieve the Management Plan's identified goals and objectives, a nd 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 Fede ral agency whose action is required to implement such measures shall either take the action recommended or shall provide the Council with an explana tion of why the action is not feasible. The Council shall

assess the effectiveness of this order no le ss than once each 5 years after the order is issued and shall report to the Office of Ma nagement 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 bran ch and is not intended to create any right, benefit, or trust responsibilit y, substantive or procedural, en forceable at law or equity by a party against the United States, its agen cies, its officers, or any other person.

(b) Executive Order 11987 of Ma y 24, 1977, is hereby revoked.

(c) The requirements of this order do not affect th e 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 th is order shall not apply to any action of the Department of State or Depa rtment 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, 1999New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200874Appendix – EFEDERAL LAWS ADDRESSINGAIS IN NEW MEXICODepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsiteAPHISPlant ProtectionAct (2000)Consolidates & modernizes several major statutes (PlantQuarantine Act, Federal Plant Pest Act, Federal NoxiousWeed Act, Organic Act of 1944, & others), replacing themwith one flexible statutory framework providing the ability toprohibit or restrict imports, exports, & interstate movement;assess higher civil penalties; issue subpoenas; conductinspections without a warrant; cooperate with industry &others in “quality assurance”programs; recover costs relatedto disposal of abandoned shipments; & take emergencyaction. By expanding the definition of “noxious weed” theAct enables APHIS to address a broader range of weedproblems.Plants & plantmaterial; plant pests;noxious weeds; &biological controlagents.Unintentional &intentionalintroduction.All federalagenciesEO 13112 (Feb.1999)Defines invasive species (“any species, including its seeds,eggs, spores, or other biological material capable ofpropagating that species, that is not native to thatecosystem”).Directs all federal agencies to:-address invasive species concerns;-refrain from actions likely to increase invasive speciesproblems.Creates interagency Invasive Species Council.Calls for National Invasive Species Management Plan tobetter coordinate federal agency efforts.All Unintentionaland intentionalintroductions:escape, release.www.Invasivespecies.govUSFWSUSCGEPACoENOAANISA (1996) Reauthorized & amended NANPCA to mandate regulationsto prevent introduction & spread of ANS into Great Lakesthrough ballast water. Authorized funding for research onANS prevention & control.Required a ballast water management program todemonstrate technologies & practices to prevent alien speciesANS & brown treesnake.Unintentionalintroductions:ballast waterhttp://www.nemw.org/nisa.htmNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200875DepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsitefrom being introduced.Modified composition of ANS Task Force.Required Task Force to develop & implement comprehensiveprogram to control the brown tree snake in GuamDoADoIAgreement on theApplication ofSanitary &PhytosanitaryMeasures (SPSAgreement)(1995)A supplementary agreement tothe World Trade OrganizationAgreement. Provides a uniform interpretation of themeasures governing safety& plant & animal healthregulations. Applicable to all sanitary & phytosanitarymeasures directly or indirectly affecting international trade.Sanitary & phytosanitary measures are defined as anymeasure applied: a) to protectanimal or plantlife or healthwithin (a Members’ Territory)from entry, establishment orspread of pests, diseases, disease carrying organisms; b) toprevent or limit other damage within the (MembersTerritory) from the entry, establishment or spread of pests(annex A).Pests, diseases,disease-carryingorganisms, ordisease-causingorganisms.Importation http://www.wto.org/goods/spsagr.htmUSFWSWild BirdConservation Act(1992)Regulates importation of foreign wild birds. Birds &nonnative parasites& diseasestransported byforeign birdsImportation http://international.fws.gov/global/law102.htmlUSFWSUSCGEPACoENOAANANPCA (1990) Established ANS TaskForce to: identify areas where ballastwater does not pose an environmental threat; assess whetheraquatic nuisance species threaten the ecologicalcharacteristics & economic uses ofUS waters (other than theGreat Lakes); determine the need for controls on vesselsentering US waters (other than Great Lakes); identify &evaluate approaches forreducing risk of adverseconsequences associated with intentional introduction ofaquatic species.Directs Coast Guard to issue regulations to prevent theIntroduction & spread of aquatic nuisance species into theGreat Lakes through ballast water.Directs CoE to develop a program of research & technologyANS Unintentionalintroductions:ballast water.http://www.anstaskforce.gov/toc.htmNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200876DepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsiteto control zebra mussels in & around public facilities & makeinformation available about control methods.DoIConvention onInternational Trade inEndangered Species(CITES)(1975)Represents alternate model for regulating invasive speciesnot already covered by the other agreements. Conventionintended to prevent harm in exporting country; however, canbe applied when species is endangered in exporting country& considered an invasive in importing country.Species of flora &fauna which arethreatened orendangered inexporting countries(Appendices I, II &III-see web site).Intentionalintroductionsthrough trade:export, reexport, import &introductionfrom the sea.http://international.fws.gov/global/citestxt.html(Forappendices,see:http://international.fws.gov/global/cites.html)DoDConvention on theprohibition of thedevelopment,production andstockpiling ofbacteriological(biological) andtoxin weapons andon their destruction(BiologicalWeaponsConvention)(1975)Article I prohibits parties from developing, producing,stockpiling, acquiring or retaining microbial or otherbiological agents which are not justified by exclusivelypeaceful purpose.Article II requires parties to destroy or divert to peacefulpurpose all such agents within 9 months of entry into force ofthe Convention.“Microbial or otherbiological agents...whatever their originor method ofproduction, of types& in quantities thathave no justificationfor prophylactic,protective or otherpeaceful purposes.”Allows for“internationalexchange ofbacteriologicalagents & toxins &equipment for theprocessing, use orproduction ofbacteriologicalagents & toxins forpeaceful purposes.”“Weapons,equipment ormeans ofdeliverydesigned to usesuch agents ortoxins for hostilepurposes.”http://sun00781.dn.net/nuke/control/bwc/text/bwc.htmNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200877DepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsiteFederal landmanagementagenciesFederal NoxiousWeed Act of 1974Although the Plant Protection Act superseded & repealedmost of the Federal Noxious WeedAct, it left intact Section15 (management of undesirable plants on Federal lands).Requires Federal land management agencies to develop &establish a management program for control of undesirableplants on federal lands under the agencies’ jurisdiction.Requires those agencies to coordinate management wheresimilar programs are being implemented on state & privatelands in the same area.Noxious weeds;undesirable plantspecies.Control onFederal lands.http://refuges.fws.gov/FICMNEWFiles/FederalNoxiousWeedAct.htmlUSFWSNMFSEndangeredSpecies Act (1973)Protects endangered species. When nonnative invasivespecies threaten endangered species, this act could be used asbasis for their eradication.Alien species posinga danger toendangered species.Not specified. http://endangered.fws.gov/esa.htmlAllNationalEnvironmentalPolicy Act (1970)Requires federal government agencies to consider theenvironmental effects of theiractions through preparation ofenvironmental impact statements (or environmentalassessments to determine whether a full EIS is required).Effects of nonnativespecies, if harmful to the environment,must be included in the EIS.Nonnative speciesposing harm to theenvironment.Intentionalintroductionsrelated to majorfederal actions.http://es.epa.gov/oeca/ofa/nepa.htmlAPHISInternational PlantProtectionConvention (1952)Applies primarily to quarantine pests in international trade.Creates an international regime to prevent spread &introduction of plant & plant product pests premised onexchange of phytosanitary certificates between importing &exporting countries’ national plant protection offices. Partieshave national plant protection organizations establishedaccording to the Convention withauthority in relation toquarantine control, risk analysis & other measures required toprevent the establishment & spread of all invasive alienspecies that, directly or indirectly, are pests of plants. Partiesagree to cooperate on information exchange & on thedevelopment of International Standards for PhytosanitaryMeasures.Pests of plants orplant products: “anyform of plant oranimal life, or anypathogenic agent,injurious orpotentially injuriousto plants or plantproducts”Quarantine pestsinvolved withinternational trade:“pest of potentialnational economicimportance to thecountry endangered“Storage places,conveyances,containers andany other objector materialcapable ofharboring orspreading plantpests, especiallywhereinternationaltransportation isinvolved.”Packing materialor matter of anykindhttp://www.fao.org/legal/treaties/004te.htmNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200878DepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsitethereby & not yetpresent there, orpresent but notwidely distributed &being activelycontrolled”accompanyingplant products;storage places;or transportationfacilities.EPAFederal Insecticide,Fungicide, andRodenticide Act(1947)Gives EPA authority to regulate importation & distributionof substances, including organisms, which are intended tofunction as pesticides.Biological controlagents (In terms ofbiological controlagents, EPAcurrently regulatesonly eukaryotic &prokaryoticmicroorganismsunder FIFRA. Otherbiocontrol agents areexempt because theyare “adequatelyregulated” byanother agency, i.e.,APHIS.).Intentionalintroduction .http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/fifra.htmAPHISAMSFederal Seed Act(1939)Requires accurate labeling & purity standards for seeds incommerce.Prohibits importation & movement of adulterated ormisbranded seedsSeeds Intentionalintroductionthrough trade.APHISAct of March 2,1931, oftenreferred to as theAnimal DamageControl ActGives APHIS authority to control wildlife damage on federal,state, or private land.Protects: field crops, vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticulturalcrops, 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).Unintentionalintroductions.DoILacey Act (1900;amended in 1998)Prohibits import of a list of designated species &other vertebrates, mollusks, & crustacea that are “injurious toSpecies injurious tohuman beings orIntentionalintroduction &New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200879DepartmentorAgencyAuthority ProvisionsOrganismsAddressedPathways orMeans ofTransportWebsitehuman beings, to the interests of agriculture, horticulture,forestry, or to wildlife or thewildlife resources of the UnitedStates.”Declares importation or transportation of any live wildlife asinjurious & prohibited, except as provided for under the Act,butallows import of almost all species for scientific,medical, education, exhibition, or propagation purposes.resources. trade .New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200880Appendix – FNEW MEXICO STATE LAWS ADDRESSING AISDepartmentorAgencyAuthority Provisions Organisms AddressedPathwaysor Means ofTransportWebsiteNewMexicoPestControlAct [76-6-1 to 76-6-39]Provides the authority to carry out operations ormeasures to locate, suppress, control, eradicate,prevent or retard the spread of pests. This provisionincludes the authority to quarantine all or part of thestate, to inspect areas suspected of infestation, & toabate the threat from actualor suspected infestationsof pests."Pest" means any insect, diseaseor other organism causing (orcapable of) damage to anyplants or its parts or plantproducts.NewMexicoPlantProtectionAct [76-5-11 to 76-5-28]Provides the authority for the state to inspectnurseries & florists to ensure stock are free from plantpests. This provision also includes the authority toregulate the transport into the state & the sale &transport within the state to ensure plant stock is pestfree."Plant pests" are organismsinjurious to plants & plantproducts which could betransported with the plant,including phyla arthropoda,mollusca or nemathelminthes aswell as weeds, fungi, bacteria,viruses or parasitic plants.NMDA /Agriculture &Environmental ServicesDivision /Bureau ofEntomology& NurseryIndustriesMexicoHarmfulPlant Act[76-7A-1to 76-7A11]Provides the authority to prevent the introduction,spread or dissemination of a harmful plant in thestate. This provision includes the authority toquarantine all or part of the state, as well as anydomestic livestock, captive wildlife or captive strayanimals suspected of exposure to a harmful plant, tomake inspections areas suspected of harboringharmful plants, & to abate the threat from harmfulplants."Harmful plant" means anyplant, seeds or other parts of aplant the board declares byregulation to be a harmful plant.Intentional&unintentionalhttp://nmdaweb.nmsu.edu/DIVISIONS/AES/ent.htmlNMDA /Agriculture &Environmental ServicesNewMexicoCommercial FeedAuthorizes the state to establish limits on the amountof weed seeds in commercial feeds. This provisionincludes the authority to inspect & detain anycommercial feeds not meeting labeled specifications."Commercial feed" means allmaterials which are distributedfor use as feed or for mixing infeed for animals other than man,Intentional&unintentionalhttp://nmdaweb.nmsu.edu/DIVISIONS/AES/fNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200881DepartmentorAgencyAuthority Provisions Organisms AddressedPathwaysor Means ofTransportWebsiteLaw [76-19-1 to76-19-14]except: (1)unmixed orunprocessed wholeseeds; or (2)unground hay, straw, stover,silage, cobs, husks & hullswhen not mixed with othermaterials.MexicoSeed Law[76-10-11to 76-10-22]Authorizes the regulation ofsale & transport of seedsinto & within the state. Inclusive, is the authority toregulate labeling & allowable limits of noxious weedseeds."Noxious weed seeds" includesprohibited noxious weed seeds& restricted noxious weedseeds. "Prohibited noxiousweed seeds" are seeds of weedswhich, when established, arehighly destructive & are notcontrolled in this state by thecultural practices commonlyused. "Restricted noxious weedseeds" are the seeds of weedswhich are very objectionable infields, lawns & gardens in thisstate & are very difficult tocontrol by cultural practicescommonly used.Division /Bureau ofFeed, Seed, &FertilizerNewMexicoNoxiousWeed Actof 1963[76-7-23to 76-7-30] & theamended1978 NewMexicoNoxiousProvide the authority to declare a weed as noxious.Under the act, the sale, distribution or planting of anoxious weed into or within the state is illegal &penalties exist to prevent such. This includes theauthority to inspect any facility or ground wherenoxious weed seeds are sold, stored, transported orplanted."Noxious weed" means anyspecies of plant which is liableto be detrimental or destructive,& difficult to control oreradicate.eed.htmlNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200882DepartmentorAgencyAuthority Provisions Organisms AddressedPathwaysor Means ofTransportWebsiteWeedManagement ActNMDA /Agriculture &Environmental ServicesDivision /Bureau ofPesticideManagementNewMexicoPesticideControlAct [76-4-1 to 76-4-39]Provides authority to regulate all pesticides &pesticide applicators, including aquatic pesticides. Italso provides for training & education of pesticideapplicators. The administrative rules of this Actrequire special training & management plandevelopment for the use of aquatic herbicidesNA NAhttp://nmdaweb.nmsu.edu/DIVISIONS/AES/pest.htmlNewMexicoLivestockCode,Article 15PredatoryAnimals& RodentPest [77-15-1 to77-15-5]Authorizes the state to cooperate in the control ofrodent pests.RodentsNMDA /Agricultural& ResourcesDivisionNewMexicoSoil &WaterConservationDistrictAct [73-20-25 to73-20-48]Recognizes the value of New Mexico’s waterresources & authorizes their administration. Inclusiveis the need to preserve the state’s waters to protect thehealth & welfare of the people of the state & topreserve & conserve its wildlife & natural resources.Intentionalorunintentionalhttp://nmdaweb.nmsu.edu/DIVISIONS/apr.htmlNMDGFNewMexicoRegulate the importation of fish & game into the state& their movement within the state. To protect gameFish & game animalsIntentionalhttp://www.wildlife.staNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 200883DepartmentorAgencyAuthority Provisions Organisms AddressedPathwaysor Means ofTransportWebsiteChapter17, Game& Fish &OutdoorRecreation (variousarticles)animals, birds & fish fromintroduced infectious orcontagious diseases the importation of any liveanimals, birds or fish into this state, exceptdomesticated animals or domesticated fowl or fishfrom government hatcheries, without first obtaining apermit from the NMDGF is regulated under 17-3-32.Shipment of game animals, birds & fish to officers ofother states is regulated under 17-3-30. The taking ofbait fish from state waters for the purpose of sale isregulated under 17-3-27.te.nm.us/apps_permit/index.htmNMED /Water QualityControlCommissionStateWaterQualityAct [74-6-1]Establishes the Water Quality Control Commission,administratively attached to the NMED, & specifiesits duties & powers. The duties & powers of theCommission include adoption of a comprehensivewater quality management program, the developmentof a continuing planning process, the administrationof loans & grants from the federal government, theadoption of water quality standards, & the adoption ofregulations "to prevent or abate water pollution in thestate or in any specific geographic area or watershedof the state...or for any class of waters."Various sub-parts of the Standards for Interstate &Intrastate Surface Waters [20.6.4 NMAC] includedcomponents directly & indirectly applicable to ANSin New Mexico. Factors affecting growth ofundesirable aquatic life [20.6.4.13 E] & theapplication of piscicides [20.6.4.13 F] are addressed.Unspecified NAhttp://www.nmenv.state.nm.us/wqcc/index.html#LegislationNMDHNMStatutes,Chapter24. Health& Safety,PublicHealthAuthority to investigate, control & abate the causes ofdisease, especially epidemics, sources of mortality &other conditions of public health [24-1-3C] & toestablish, maintain & enforce isolation & quarantine[24-1-3D].UnspecifiedIntentionalorunintentionalhttp://www.health.state.nm.us/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 a quatic, riparian and terre strial species influence the productivity, value, and management of a broad range of land and

water resources in the West. These u ndesirable 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 a nd drainage systems;

f. reduction of the value of stream s, lakes, reservoirs, oceans, and

estuaries for fish and wildlife ha bitat, 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 a nd recreational value of wildlands, parklands, and other areas; and j. decreased real estate property va lue 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 t hose 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 in to more western water-bodies each year. The most common source for these species is via recreationalNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

85 watercraft movement and from supplie s sold by aquatic plant and animal suppliers. No western state has implem ented 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 wester n 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 o ff 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 sp read, intentional and unintentional introductions, and control of undesirabl e aquatic and terres trial species on land and in the water. The principal objectives will be to maintain properly functioning natural systems, agriculture productivity, enhancing resource and environmental protec tion, and the protection of human health. Control programs will be thos e that are economically practicable in relationship to the long-term impacts an introduced nuisance species

will cause.

2. In pursuit of these objectives, prog rams 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 Inte grated Pest Management (IPM) concepts and practices. IPM involves the use of all suitable techniques, including biological, chemical, physical (mechanical and manual), cultural measures (environmental manipulati on), and public awareness programs.

3. The western governors strongly en courage all natural resource land management agencies, local governme nts, universities and the private sector to collaborate and form part nerships 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, agri culture, 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 fede ral lands and provide assistance to states in the management of inva sive species, including the national invasive species act and programs at th e U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal, Plant, and Health Inspec tion Service (APHIS) which provides

valuable services in the detection an d elimination of undesirable species of insects and plant diseases. Their services are essential for states relying on trade and export services to mainta in strong trade and export functions.

5. The Western Governors recognize the importance of, and need for, a coordinated western regional approa ch to aquatic invasive species.

C. GOVERNORS’ MANAGEMENT DIRECTIVE

1. This resolution is to be posted on the Western Gover nors’ Association

website and it should be referenced a nd used as appropriate by Governors

and staff.

2. The Western Governors Association shall obtain necessa ry 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 ex ecutive 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 eff ective policies and procedures to prevent transport, sale and di spersal of undesirable species, particularly those under erad ication in specific states;

c. Development of uniform pub lic educational and awareness

media that create effective comm unication 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 po llution” 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 partne r with the Western Regional Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species, the We stern 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 calle d one of the most serious environmental threats of our time. Every day, an additional 4,60 0 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 infe stations are now the second leading cause of native species being listed as threatened or endangered. Watersheds dominated by noxious weeds are often less e fficient in absorbing and storing water. Invasive species often lack the characteri stics of native species necessary for soil protection, resulting in increas ed soil erosion. Aquatic noxio us weeds can lower the water quality of surface water and cau se extensive fish kills.

In addition to the environmental devasta tion 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 c ontrol of Hydrilla in the United States costs approximately $25 million. Rangelands infested with Russian knapweed, a serious problem in New Mexico, typically suffer reduc tions in livestock carrying capacity of 50

percent or more.

Many other western states have conducte d 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 bat tle. 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 recen tly 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, co mply with federal and state laws, and to begin actually controlling infest ations. The strategic plan is an attempt to coordinate the

individual efforts into a noxi ous 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 a nd 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 Wate r Conservation Commission

• New Mexico State Forestry Division

• New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service

• New Mexico State Highway a nd 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.

INTRODUCTIONNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

90 The New Mexico Strategic Plan for Mana ging Noxious Weeds addresses eight broad issues critical in building a strong and su ccessful 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 We ed Management Area (CWMA) Support and Success of CWMAs Expanding the Use of Cooperative Ag reements and Resource Sharing Develop and Expand Interest Group Partnerships Early Detection of New Infestations

Statewide Coordi nation 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 Mana gement 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 wate rs caused by the explosive spread of nonnative weeds, along with the resulting nega tive economic impact; and 2) to bring about greater statewide coordination; coopera tion; 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, COOPERAT ION, AND PARTNERSHIPSNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

91 Individual efforts are critical, yet coordinati on 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 cri tical in determining the success of conto1 attempts. We cannot waste va luable time in deadlock over disputes concerning any aspect of weed management.

Actions: Methods of dispute resolution will be id entified. These methods will be utilized whenever conflicts arise which are signifi cant 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 enti ties 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 opportu nities 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 a nd 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 comm unicate with individuals, who are opposed to noxious weed control, as well as indivi duals or groups with special needs.

New Mexico's weed management strategy is intended to complement the objectives of agency and inter-agency weed management st rategies (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 Pla n, 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 s upporting their federal agency partner’s public outreach requirements in orde r to facilitate weed management on public

lands.

Issue: The noxious weed issue impacts many different types of organizations and agencies. In order to preven t duplication of effo rts and to make use of resources in the most efficient method, it is impor tant to identify what roles the different en tities fulfill.

Actions: It is important that CWMAs are designe d to encourage participation from each of the types of groups outlined below. Br oad participation from different groups will

ensure the success of the CW MA. The primary roles of the supporting agencies and organizations have b een defined below:

Conservation Organizations will educate their membersh ips, the Legislature, the Congressional delegation, school groups and te achers, and the general public. They will use their meetings, newsletters, web sites, a nd workshops to inform these audiences about noxious weed problems, their sources and po ssible solutions, and to raise support for ecologically appropriate cont rol 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 li nk between private individuals and government agenci es. They will work to provi de training and help with awareness and outreach. In many areas of the state, they will pr ovide leadership and coordinate efforts between the many partne rs 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 thei r industry. They will work with the noxious weed coordinator and have representati on 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 De partment of Agriculture will work to

coordinate noxious weed mana gement 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 prot ect those lands from new infestations. Cooperative Extension service will educate the public abou t the negative impacts of

noxious weed infestations and work with private landowners to develop vegetation management plans. They will serve as the si ngle point of contact if the CWMA does not designate another enti ty 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 thei r needs. They are encouraged to participate in CWMAs. Of utmost importance under New Mexico's Noxious Weed Act is the recognition of their priv ate property rights.

II. ORGANIZATION OF W EED 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 facil itate cooperation among all landowners and land managers in order to manage weed pr oblems within an area. Cooperators in a CWMA work together to jointly prioritize w eed management efforts in their area. The supporters of this plan agree to encourag e 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 CWMA s will be best dictated by local entities familiar with the opportunities and cha llenges of that particular area.

The area encompassed in the CWMA is determin ed by the individuals participating in the

CWMA. Careful consideration should be used in defini ng the boundaries of a CWMA.

Success, Efficiency and Support of CWMAs

Issue: The success CWMAs is dependent upon the l evel of cooperation from the general public, interest groups, private industries, and land management agencies. It is critical that the time, effort, and res ources invested in the CWMAs are utilized in the most effective manner.

Actions: The organizations and agencies comprisi ng NWAG will take an active role in providing support for CWMAs.

Whenever possible, CWMAs should take advantag e of strategies that have proven to be effective in other areas and adapt thos e strategies to fit the local area.

CWMAs should develop yearly management pl ans 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 mini mum, the system should be capable ofNew 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 "Measur es 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 ar e often unable to independently acquire and maintain mode rn weed control and mapping equipment, computers and software, and the seasonal work ers necessary to sustain an effective

management program.

Actions: Facilitation and encourage the development of cooperative agreements for sharing skills and resources. This could in clude, but is not limite d to, the sharing of personnel, equipment, computer technol ogy, any materials for integrated weed management, inventory and monitoring data, a nd educational materials. Cooperators will

also share skills of availabl e experts and technicians and jointly sponsor training and informational meetings.

It is important to recognize that the authorit y of a CWMA does not negate or supercede the decision-making ability of the individua l landowners or managers involved in the

CWMA. Formation of CWMAs is not intende d to take over decision-making power, but rather to provide a mechanism for coordinati on between all the involved decision makers.

A resource directory will be developed listi ng individuals from government, universities, agricultural organizations, task force gr oups, weed management associations, and conservation organizations with particular w eed 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 ot her 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 view ed as an agricultural problem. Other interest groups, which may have substan tial expertise and res ources, are often not included in noxious weed management effo rts, particularly at the local level.

Actions: Facilitate the creation of Intergovernmental Agreem ents that utilize joint powers agreements between New Mexico Stat e University, New Mexico Department ofNew 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 organi zations such as garden clubs, native plant societies, conservation, real estate, hunting and fishing, re creation, 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 th e 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 vol unteer resource pool to local weed management capability.

Encourage Agriculture and Extension Educa tion to take steps to incorporate weed

awareness into 4-H and FFA activities. Al so encourage involvement in noxious weed programs as part of the community-s ervice activities of these groups.

Develop Early Detection Systems

Issue : Early detection of newly arri ved noxious weeds is a critical element of integrated weed management.

Actions: Ensure that all integrated weed ma nagement plans contain provisions and mechanisms for early detection and contro l 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 de alt with at the lo cal level; however, statewide coordination of these programs will improve the efficiency of individual CWMAs, allow the state to prioritize re source allocation, and measure the state's progress in dealing with noxious weeds.

Actions : Individual CWMAs should report year ly activities including inventories, control measures implemented, and monitoring re sults to the state weed coordinator. This will provide the information necessary for d ecisions regarding the state's noxious weed list, funding priorities, and baseline data to measure progress or failures in dealing withNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

96 noxious weeds. Additionally, the information w ill aid in awareness projects and provide accountability and credibility to th e state's noxious weed program.

The Guidelines for Coordinated Manageme nt of Noxious Weed s: Development of Management Areas will be made available to CWMA staff/volunteers to reference.

III. AWARENESS, EDUCATION AND INVOLVEMENT

Expand Understanding of Impacts, Preven tion, 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 a bout the characteristics and impacts of noxious weeds on the environment, economy, r ecreational opportunitie s, and quality of

life in New Mexico. This information will also be incorporated into information about

related issues such as threatened and enda ngered species, water qua lity, 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 appr opriate for specific

audiences.

Develop BMPs for industries including, but not limited to, constr uction, transportation, mining, agriculture, silvicultu re, 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 tr aining to citizens a nd 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 fo r noxious weed awareness.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

97 Information about the impacts of noxious weed s and the need to manage them wi11 be integrated into public education environmenta l 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 va riety of weed awar eness activities and exercises for grades K-12 that can be distributed to schools.

Issue: Raising public awareness and underst anding requires a well-planned and financed long- term program. To capture publ ic interest and mobilize citizens to help stop the spread of noxious weeds also requires the immediate atte ntion of the local, state,

and national media.

Actions: Cooperatively utilize prof essional 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 na tional officials in dealing with noxious weeds first requires greater awareness and understanding from New Mexico citizens, landowners, and elected official s. Increasing the understanding of the risks associated
with noxious weeds, and the ki nds and amounts of resources n eeded to effectively manage

noxious weeds across New Mexico is critical to weed management.

Actions: The development of CWMAs will br ing greater awareness and support from

citizens and landowners. Public support will likely rise wi th an assurance that public funds are used effectively.

Cooperating county, state, all federal land ma nagement agencies will highlight and recognize local weed management successes and achievements.

Create more effective informational brochur es, videos, and educational materials and distribute them widely. Devel op briefing packages; presentations; and tours for national, state, and local officials.

Issue: Simply creating awareness of the probl em is not enough, it is important that people or groups who are aware of the pr oblem become involved in the solution.

Actions: Ask private industry to include noxiou s weed awareness cam paigns with their private advertising campaigns.

Involve general public with weed scouting or weed lookout programs in which they

receive weed identification booklets and are as ked to report noxious weed infestations.New Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

98 Work with public school administrators to include more noxi ous weed awareness

activities in school curriculums.

Involve homebuilders associations and real es tate agents to disseminate information on noxious weeds to new homeowners, homebuild ers, and people moving to New Mexico

from out of state.

Encourage local nurseries, and greenhouses to o ffer 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 fo r 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, c onsistent, and up-to-date information for weed management professionals and cooperators because of constant changes in weed management personnel, tools, tec hniques and research findings.

Actions: Training opportunities ar e offered by the New Mexico Vegetation Management Association, Range Management Associa tion, New Mexico State University, New Mexico Crop Producers Association, and othe r interested groups. Based on the review and assessment, and with support of New Me xico State University and Cooperative Extension educators, training curri cula 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 traini ng workshops for noxious weed identification, control methodologies, mapping app lications, and any other topi cs 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 newNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

99 species far outstrips the capabi lity to contain them. State and federal reso urces are far from adequate to deal with the scope of th e 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. Th e 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 consiste ncy 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 deve lop 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 lo cation of noxious weeds;

• calculate total acreage in fested for each noxious w eed on the state list; and

• determine rate of spread for each weed by comparing inventories from year to year.

Cooperatively review inventory/mapping proced ures and database structure used across the state to assess the compatibility of exis ting programs. Adopt or develop a compatible inventory and information system with a mini mum set of standardized protocols that can be used by federal, state, and county ag encies in the mapping and management of

noxious weeds.

Implementation: Agencies and CWMAs should use the national inventory standards developed by the North Amer ican Weed Management AssociationNew 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 reposit ory will not be capable of replacing data management capabilities and needs of the pa rticipating 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 noxi ous weeds at the state level.

Efforts should be made to share inventor y information with surrounding states and

Mexico.

Implementation: Agencies and CWMAs shoul d 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 mentione d 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 progre ss is occurring, weed management is still viewed professionally as a distinct activity or “pr ogram,” rather than an in tegral 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 th at risk assessments are included in all proposed projects and actions that have the po tential to introduce or spread noxious weed

infestations.

Managers will be encouraged to incorporat e effective, science based, and ecologically sound weed management measures in land us e, 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 noxiou s weeds. Use an adaptive approach with an objective rating syst em to determine if weeds should be added or removed from the noxious weed list. Assure the designation procedure is compatible with the early detecti on/eradication strategy.

Regularly communicate with surrounding states to iden tify new and existing weed species that pose the greatest risk for expa nsion in New Mexico. Develop and publish a "hot list" of the potentially most dangerous noxious weeds and enc ourage early detection

and control. Distribute "alerts" with weed photogra phs and biological data.

Cooperatively develop a set of recommende d statewide prevention practices. Work toward broad application of these practices across a ll lands. Encourage CWMA cooperators to develop effectiv e prevention practices and guide lines 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 request ing them to post similar information. The Associated Press circulated this press releas e to news outlets nati onwide. New releases posted on the NMDGF web site are distributed to:

• Approximately 200 news outlets statewid e, 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 represen ting 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 su mmary 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 SectionNew 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 othe r 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: Evaluati ng Non-Native Plants for Their Impact on Biodiversity. Version 1. Nature Serve, 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 W ildlife 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, remo ve 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 (water milfoil 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 Gr ande Conservancy District, July 15, 2008:

Using electronic document changes, the MR GCD provided up-to-date information on the distribution of several AIS pl ants in New Mexico, includ ing 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 Nuis ance Species Task Force:

From: Darren_Benjamin@fws.gov [mai lto: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 In vasive Species Management Plan. They are provided for your consideration and I hope yo u 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, re presenting 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 reader s, 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, lake s, 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. canaliculat a, 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 no t describe state activities associated with current ANSTF supported programs or produc ts. However, on page 29, there is a succinct description of New Mexico’s involveme nt with several ANSTF programs and their recognition and participation is very much appreciated.

7. Strategy 2A, page 33, suggest adding the Ge neric 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 th at the Museum could be a partner in public

education efforts.

Please note that to give the ANSTF members en ough 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 AN STF 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 ni cely organized and focused in its goals and objectives. Of great benefit to Plan r eaders, especially folks outside of New Mexico, would be to include a New Mexi co 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 fo r most of the aquatic plants identified (Priority 1 species) except hydrilla (page 16). New Mexi co uses triploid grass carp in concert with other states (Texas and Louisiana) associated with the RioNew Mexico Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, September 2008

106 Grande basin as a preferred method to cont rol hydrilla. The se veral aquatic plants mentioned on page 23 are also consumed by grass carp.

3. VHS virulence is limited to waters betw een 37 and 54°F. The authors may wish to discuss the risk VHS poses to NM wate rs much as they have with the other Priority 1 species.

4. There has been a change made to apples nail 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 a dded 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 de scription of New Mexico’s i nvolvement with several ANSTF programs and their recognition and particip ation is very much appreciated.

Response: Additional activi ties 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 re ference document to 2A3; suggest adding a new strategy that promotes implementati on of Habitattitude with the pet owners, distributors, breeders and re tailers (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 incorpor ated into Strategy 2A3 and Strategy

6A10.

8. In reference to Strategy 6A, I visited th e New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science in Albuquerque several year s ago and was impressed by the quality

of its exhibits and informa tion. It would seem that th e Museum could be a partner in public education efforts.

Response: Change here is reflected in Strategy 6A6.

Additional comments from the ANSTF pr ovided 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 pr evention, coordination, and cooperation.”

Response: The New Mexico AISAC acknowledg es that prioritization of action items

outlined under “ Recommended Strategies and Actions ” of the NMPlan is an important component of adaptive ma nagement. 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 st ates, and regional planning strategies. Accordingly, the AISAC preferred not to pr ioritize action items of the NMPlan.

• “Are there invasive species that are no t 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 Cla ss 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 s lightly redefined to include species that are not yet in NM, but for which th ere are known management techniques?”

Response: Priority Class 4 has been red efined to address this recommendation.