The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Scientific Authority invites submission of invasive species risk assessment grant proposals. Our program is interested in assessing the risk of intentional importation of priority species of wildlife. Background - The Problem Activities to prevent introduction of invasive species that severely impact the lands and waters of the United States have become a priority for the Service as we expand our efforts to conserve and protect our nation's native fish and wildlife and their habitats. Many were intentionally imported as exotic pets, live food, and aquarium fish and, after accidental or intentional release into the wild, have become environmental, human health, and agricultural threats. Hundreds of thousands of potentially invasive animals and plants are imported into the United States every year.
Prevention is the first line of defense against invasive species.
The purpose of the grant program is to determine the risk associated with the intentional import of species to the United States. The Service will use the information contained in the risk assessments to assist in making scientific determinations regarding the listing of species as injurious. Attached is a list of species or genera that were identified by the public as high priority or are imported into the United States in quantities averaging more than 3,000 per year and are therefore of particular interest to the Service. Who May Apply Any individual or organization with demonstrated scientific or biological qualifications to conduct risk assessments for potentially invasive species. Requirements Proposals should be submitted in English and must be accompanied by a copy on diskette in either MS Word or Word Perfect.