Model Process: Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species (AIS, also known as aquatic nuisance species or ANS) may reside within fresh, estuarine, or marine waters and are defined by the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 as “nonindigenous species that threaten native species; the ecological stability of infested waters; or the commercial, agricultural, recreational, or other activities dependent upon those waters.” Unchecked, AIS have the potential to imperil public health and transform ecosystems, resulting in widespread environmental degradation. AIS also threaten sectors of the Nation’s economy that depend upon natural resources and native ecosystems. Aquaculture, tourism, recreation, shipping, and water resource infrastructure, including hydropower facilities, may be adversely impacted by AIS. Although prevention is the most effective approach to eliminate or reduce the threat of invasive species, Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) serves as a failsafe when prevention measures are ineffective or unavailable.