January 2024 Meeting Minutes

On January 24-25, 2024, the Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force held a two-day meeting at the U.S. Geological Survey headquarters in Reston, Virginia, with a virtual participation option. Action items and Decisions are listed below, followed by a summary of the meeting.

Decisions

1. ANS Task Force approved the revised Oregon State ANS Management Plan. 
2. The ANS Task Force approved establishing a joint ANS Task Force / Invasive Species Advisory Committee workgroup to provide input to the development and implementation of the National Early Detection Rapid Response Framework. 

Action Items

The ANS Task Force made the following recommendations:

1. Executive Secretary will work with Subcommittees to create and prioritize a list of outputs. These lists will be shared with the ANS Task Force membership and regional panels prior to the Fall 2024 meeting. Time will be dedicated during the Fall 2024 meeting agenda to discuss these outputs and create updated workplans for the subcommittees that align with the ANS Task Force Strategic Plan.   
2. The ANS Task Force Executive Secretary will inquire with the Invasive Carp Regional Coordinating Committee about their interest and ability to include Prussian carp in their scope of work.
3. The ANS Legislative Report Working Group will send out the draft survey to collect input on legislative, programmatic, or regulatory changes to eliminate remaining gaps to ANS Task Force members and regional panels. Members and Panels will provide comments, along with recommendations on survey timeline and distribution process. 
4. The ANS Legislative Report Working Group will take into consideration the recommendations for increased financial support for the regional panels as they compile information to draft the report. 
5. The Outreach Subcommittee with review and discuss the Great Lakes Panel Position Statement on Appropriate Messaging. The subcommittee will make a recommendation for a need for a nation position on the naming of species and the potential role of ANS Task Force at the next meeting. 
6. The ANS Task Force Executive Secretary will work with the Control Subcommittee to identify existing genetic biocontrol groups that could provide updates to the ANS Task Force and Regional Panels. If no groups exist, the subcommittee will provide a recommendation for a structure structure
   Something temporarily or permanently constructed, built, or placed; and constructed of natural or manufactured parts including, but not limited to, a building, shed, cabin, porch, bridge, walkway, stair steps, sign, landing, platform, dock, rack, fence, telecommunication device, antennae, fish cleaning table, satellite dish/mount, or well head.
   
   Learn more about structure that could be used to facilitate communication on this issue. 
7. The Outreach Subcommittee will identify actions that could be taken to increase engagement with boat owners and waterfowl hunters to encourage adoption of prevention messaging. The subcommittee will report on progress or recommended steps forward at the next ANS Task Force meeting. 

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Welcome

Dave Miko (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)), introduced himself, welcomed the attendees and thanked them for attending. Miko reviewed the agenda, which was distributed to registered participants and posted on the ANS Task Force website and in the meeting chat. 

Joe Krieger from NOAA introduced himself and explained he was acting for the NOAA chair, Debbie Lee. Krieger recognized the ANSTF Task Force members, who volunteer their time from their regular jobs to move Task Force priorities forward, and the outstanding regional panels and subcommittee members who have also dedicated hours of personal time and expertise to ensure that the meeting action items, and work plans are progressing.

Susan Pasko of USFWS introduced herself and went over meeting logistics. She also announced there would be a public comment period at the end of each day.

Introductions

Roll call was taken of ANS Task Force membership. The complete list of attendees follows.

Adoption of Agenda, Approval of Minutes, Status of Action Items

There was a motion to adopt the agenda, and it was seconded.  There was no discussion. The agenda was approved. 

Krieger called for approval of the minutes from the July 2023 meeting. They were distributed to all members electronically and posted on the website. There was a motion to approve the minutes, and a second. There was no discussion. The minutes were approved.

The status of the Action Items from the last meeting were reviewed and are listed below.

1. Executive Secretary will make a request for participants on the Legislative Report Working Group. The Working Group will provide recommendations for a process to develop and produce a report that meets the requirements outlined in the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022.
   Status:Complete. A working group was formed in August 2023 and has develop a draft outline for the report and a survey to collect the required information. These products will be presented for discussion on Thursday, July 25, 2024.
2. Executive Secretary will prepare a Federal Register Notice for public comment on the National European Green Crab Management and Control Plan. Comments will be forwarded to the European Green Crab Working Group for consideration. Once all comments are addressed, a final plan will be submitted to the ANS Task Force for approval.
   Status:Complete. The Federal Register Notice was published on December 26, 2023. Public comments are due by February 9, 2024. Comments will be forwarded to the workgroup for consideration. It is anticipated that a final plan will be submitted to the ANS Task Force for approval at the May 2024 ANSTF meeting.
3. Executive Secretary will prepare a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species, targeting early August for the notice to be posted.
   Status:Complete. The Notice of Funding Opportunity was posted on August 15, 2023 and closed on October 16, 2023. Following the approved model process for the Fund, submitted proposals were reviewed and a funding recommendation was submitted to the ANSTF chairs. Award packages are being prepared for the selected proposals. Additional updates on the Rapid Response Fund will be given in the EDRR session on Thursday, July 25, 2024

Presentation: Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database: New Species Occurrences

Matt Neilson, from the U.S. Geological Survey, opened up the presentation by giving the mission statement of the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database: Our mission at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database is to be the centralized source for 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 needs for resource managers, researchers, decision makers, and the public. Some of the services include: contributing scientific reports, tracking even nonindigenous aquatic species in U.S. waters and providing online/real-time queries of trusted data. 

As of January 24, 2024, 1,402 species have been tracked within the database with a total of 709,489 records. (https://nas.er.usgs.gov). There have been 12 new species alerts. Neilson provides information on species including the Blue Land Crab, Fishhook Waterflea, and Hydrilla.

NAS project updates include the Aquatic Disease and Pathogen Repository (AquaDePTH) and MRB dreissenid risk. AquaDePTH is a tool to help monitor spatial and temporal aquatic animal health trends, curate aquatic animal health data in a single common source for aquatic animal health professionals, researchers and the public and also encourage interoperability with other relevant databases. The advisory group is split into several workgroups: Academic/ International, State, NOAA/USDA/Industry, and USFWS. 

There is an interactive tool that can be access by going to: https://rconnect.usgs.gov/webDR that will allow users to explore the effects of relative weightings of each risk (sub)component on the composite relative risk, visualizing at a HUC10 scale across the MRB. 

Update:  National Invasive Species Council 

Angela McMellen Brannigan provided an overview of the National Invasive Species Council (NISC) current and future work plans.  The FY 2024 NISC Work Plan can be found at: https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/nisc-fy2024-work-plan-2023.0929.pdf. A few of the core coordination activities of this workplan include: crosscut budget, co-chair and senior adviser meetings and coordination with other interagency committees. Some thematic priority activities include: climate change climate change
Climate change includes both global warming driven by human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. Though there have been previous periods of climatic change, since the mid-20th century humans have had an unprecedented impact on Earth's climate system and caused change on a global scale.

Learn more about climate change , early detection and rapid response, and Wildland Fire. Some new topics for consideration in this fiscal year include islands and invasive species and biological control. 

The ISAC National Priorities Subcommittee proposed that NISC agencies should prioritize the following invasive species activities: coordination and leadership, engagement to prevent entry into the United States and Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR). ISAC will meet in the Spring of 2024, during the week of April 29. There is a fall meeting with an October timestamp but no specific date as of yet. New topics to be discussed include islands and the National Early Detection and Rapid Response Framework. 

U.S. Coast Guard and EPA Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA) Update

John Morris and LCDR Amanda Garcia, from the Coast Guard’s Environmental Standards Division, presented on Ballast Water Management and VIDA implementation. The Coast Guard continues to enforce current Ballast Water regulations until it publishes final VIDA implementing regulations; 54 Coast Guard type-approved ballast water management systems are available for most vessel needs, including freshwater routes, to meet the discharge standard. 

VIDA will require new forms of cooperation among Coast Guard, EPA, Canada, tribes and state and provincial governments. VIDA requires the EPA and Coast Guard to develop two sets of regulations for 23 vessel discharges, including ballast water and hulls and associated niche areas. EPA national standards of performance will replace current Coast Guard ballast water regulations. The Coast Guard is drafting its implementing compliance and enforcement regulations, and VIDA requires its final rule to be issued two years after EPA’s final rule. Lastly, VIDA has a role for the ANSTF to develop the Intergovernmental Response Framework, and the EPA and Coast Guard are working closely together in the initial planning phase. For any questions contact: environmental_standards@uscg.mil. 

Nick Rosenau, from the Office of Water, presented requirements from the VIDA. When the EPA and USCG regulations are final, effective and enforceable, states are preempted from adopting or enforcing more stringent requirements except through one of several petition options established in the VIDA. For the proposed national standard performance, they distributed a publication in October of 2023, and the final rule signature, under consent decree should be completed by September 23, 2024. EPA’s 2020 rule addresses general standards and specific standards which include 3 that were addressed in the October 2023 supplemental notice. These 3 standards cover ballast tanks, graywater systems and hulls, and associated niche areas. For the discharge standards relating to the Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (SNPRM) the website is: https://www.epa.gov/vessels-marinas-and-ports/commercial-vessel-discharge-standards.

Presentation: Access Evaluation: Risk Assessments and Site Prescriptions

Pat Conzemius and Zach Burnside from Wildlife Forever presented on An Access Enhancement Guidebook as a systematic redesign or retrofit process to improve a public water access site, with a focus on aquatic invasive species prevention. The A.C.C.E.S.S. protocol has 6 steps: Assess, Coordinate, Communicate, Evaluate, Supply and Standardize. A case study was shown on how was ACCESS is implemented 

Common Themes that have been seen in access points that were visited: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Signage was not present, AIS prevention tools and cleaning stations were not present, watercraft inspectors were not stationed, AIS decontamination was not available, and all sites were within 10 miles of AIS. 

A question was posed regarding costs of the cleaning stations and who is responsible for the costs. The units can range from $2,500 for a smaller unit and about $25,000 for a larger unit. They purchased the equipment directly through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) is a once-in-a-generation investment in the nation’s infrastructure and economic competitiveness. We were directly appropriated $455 million over five years in BIL funds for programs related to the President’s America the Beautiful initiative.

Learn more about Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grant and worked with site managers on a donation agreement in which they assumed responsibility for operation and maintenance going forward. 

Presentation: An ounce of prevention: addressing the potential expansion of Prussian Carp Carassius gibelio in North America

Patrick Kocovsky of the U.S. Geological Survey presented on the Prussian Carp, which are native to Central Europe, east of Siberia. Prussian Carp are recognized as one of the most damaging invasive species globally and may have been undetected for decades. The first report of Prussian Carp was in Alberta was in 2014, but a review in 2000 indicates the species could have been a goldfish. 

Prussian Carp have gynogenetic reproduction, a varied diet, and broad environmental tolerance which signifies high risk of invasion. Prevention is the best tool for management of invasive species. Beginning in March 2024, the USGC will attempt to assess risk focusing on the Montana and Minnesota point of entries. 

In Montana the St. Mary Dam diversion reconstruction may include fish streams to prevent Prussian Carp. Patrick discussed how to move forward with structured decision making. Patrick also noted the American Fisheries Society is aware of the emerging Prussian Carp threat.

Presentation:  Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease & Marine Biosecurity in the Pacific Islands

Val Brown, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Nick Rosenau (EPA), and Caroline McLaughlin (Florida Sea Grant), presented on Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, the most lethal coral disease ever reported. Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) is prevalent, and there is a significant number of susceptible species. The disease is transmissible, and affected corals have significant mortality. It was first detected off the coast of Miami, Florida in 2014. It has spread to 30 different countries during the past 10 years, and it continues to spread. There are more than 30 susceptible species, and the tissue loss occurs at a rapid pace. 

Unless the coral is treated with amoxicillin, the coral dies at a rapid rate. The disease is contained in the Caribbean. Ballast water was mentioned in the process. Response activities include: surveillance, interventions, rescue & propagation, restoration research/planning and support. 

NOAA released an implementation plan for response and prevention. The Coral Disease Working Group consists of: Affected Jurisdictions Team, Transmission Team, Pacific Preparedness Team, and National Initiatives. A resolution would be a national action for Coral Disease Outbreak: prevention, rescue, and recovery. 

Potential transmission mechanisms include direct, vector-borne, and waterborne. Short range transmissions include currents and neutrally-buoyant particles. Long-range transmissions include ships with ballast water and associated sediment and other human activity. There is literature on Transmission Prevention Actions, including peer reviewed publications and regulatory analysis. An example of prevention would be Hawaii’s emergency ballast water management rules. 

Marine biosecurity in the Pacific Islands is important as the disease attacks the foundation of the reefs. The corals provide habitat for many species. Coral reefs affect about 97% wave energy reduction. Coral reefs are important to the people that inhabit islands that depend on the resources in the water as well as tourism. 

The U.S. Coral Reef Task Force Coral Disease Working Group has a Pacific Preparedness Team. The members can be found here: https://www.coralreef.gov/about/members.html. Enhanced monitoring of ballast water, ship movements, and other activities are recommended. Another emerging threat is an illegal aquarium species that likely was released in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. 

Questions were posed including: 

• How do we build on existing body of work and build capacity in the Pacific Islands?
• How can ANSTF help prevent the spread of SCTLD and other invasive species while building capacity in the islands? 
  
  There has been talk about having a specific island group because they are so unique. A concern was voiced about the gap of data from islands in general. There have been mixed results on environmental factors that affect the disease, including water temperature. Results have been inconsistent.

Presentation: Invasive Species and the Big Picture: the Growing call for Biosecurity on Islands

Phil Andreozzi began the presentation with a quote from Tommy E. Remengesau Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, who said “Other than Climate Change, no other issue has greater potential to directly impact our economies, our precious natural heritage, our food security ad our ecosystem resilience than do invasive species.” Globally, the economic costs of invasions increase fourfold each decade. Invasive species on islands are so important because of their impact and immediacy, unique opportunities, and political attention. 

The Brown Tree Snake (BTS) effects native bird populations and other animals. The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) affects coconut trees, which is the tree of life on many islands as it provides nutritional and other values.

At the Pacific Ecological Security Conference, there were 105 participants, 14 Pacific Island Countries and Territories, and 8 high-level delegations. The takeaway base message was, “If you are able to better prevent, detect, eradicate, mitigate and control invasive species, you automatically enhance the climate adaptability and resilience of your ecosystems and agriculture, food security, agricultural productivity and options, biodiversity, human health, quality of life, cultural resources, and efforts to develop long-term sustainability.” 

Presentation: A Risk Analysis to Assess the Potential to Spread Aquatic Invasive Species via the Seaplane Pathway:  Recommendations to Enhance U.S. Aquatic Invasive Species-Seaplane Prevention Efforts

Lisa DeBruyckere (Creative Resource Strategies, LLC), Leah Elwell (Conservation Collaborations, LLC), and Stephanie Showalter Otts (National Sea Grant Law Center) presented on the assessment to address the potential to spread AIS through seaplane operations. The project builds on existing knowledge and understanding of seaplanes as a potential pathway for the transport of AIS. It seeks to develop a shared understanding of information and statistics associated with seaplanes and U.S. waterbodies and their potential nexus with AIS. The study will include a risk assessment that compiles data and maps waterbodies and AIS, including current waterbody monitoring for AIS at seaplane bases in the lower 48 and Alaska. Project website is: https://www.seaplanesandais.com

The project has 4 phases: The first phase was completed in 3 months, and included a compilation of scientific literature, information, and statistics on U.S.  seaplanes and aquatic invasive species; a compilation of aquatic invasive species information and outreach on seaplane self-inspection protocols; a compilation of regulations governing U.S. seaplane use nationally and at the state levels; a compilation of U.S.G.S. and iMapInvasives aquatic invasive species data distribution of high priority AIS species; identification of U.S. waterbodies used by seaplanes; creation of a project website; and a description of the social, environmental, and ecosystem impacts of aquatic invasive species and the potential effects of climate change for increasing the spread of aquatic invasive species via seaplanes.

Phase 2 has a timeline of 6 months, which includes a survey of seaplane pilots to identify travel patterns on a regional basis and to assess  knowledge and awareness of seaplanes as a potential aquatic invasive species pathway; assess  knowledge and use of seaplane inspection and decontamination protocols; understand challenges to implementing  protocols; document design changes to floats and other equipment that could reduce, or eliminate, spread of aquatic invasive species; and identify willingness to inspect and decontaminate prior to visiting waterbodies. It also includes a description of the most likely aquatic invasive species to be transported by seaplanes in 8 different regions of the country. And it includes 8 regional case studies.

Phase 3 has a timeline of 4-6 months , and includes the development of draft best management practices to reduce the risk of aquatic invasive species transport by seaplanes, which will be  shared with seaplane operators via 8 focus group meetings in 8 regions of the United States to obtain feedback; a survey of seaplane operators that shares the proposed final best management practices to obtain feedback; and convening a “Think Tank” summit to explore and discuss potential redesign of seaplane equipment design that could be considered.

Phase 4 has a timeline of 2 months, which will include the final report and recommendations via the website. 

Illustrations of seaplanes were shown to demonstrate how planes may serve as pathway for AIS spread. A Clean Drain Dry checklist for pilots was shown along with statistics from the U.S. Pilots and Seaplane Bases dated October of 2023. 

Seaplanes are used primarily at the state and local level. Thirty states have at least one statue or regulation referring to seaplanes. An Example of a state law includes Alabama where it prohibits the use of seaplanes on lakes within Gulf State Park. 

A question posed asking if funding was secured for all 4 phases through a cooperative agreement; answer: yes. Another question regarding the FAA was posed, with a response that the FAA have been very cooperative and have been assisting the project. 

Presentation: Development of an action plan to address AIS in Commerce

The AIS in Commerce Landscape is complex. Some concerns include: global commerce and e-Commerce are growing and staffing and capacity are insufficient to provide adequate oversight, compliance, and enforcement. Possible solutions are to identify and interrupt the chain of transmission. Lisa DeBruyckere (Creative Resource Strategies, LLC) provided an overview of the draft of the action plan to address AIS in commerce. The plan includes a Governance and Biosecurity Framework for AIS in Commerce in North America in which 71 actions have been implemented in numerous themes: Accessible information, Voluntary Industry Practices, Resources and Capacity, Legal Authorities, Record Requirements, Knowledgeable Consumers and Collaborative Interdiction. Goals highlighted included: readily available access to updated and accurate information on aquatic organism in trade in North America, an effective regulatory and compliance framework exists to enhance governance in AIS in Commerce, and consumer behavior reflects sound knowledge and awareness of aquatic invasive species in commerce. 

The next steps in the action plan are to draft potential implementers, budget, timeline, performance metric for each of the Tier 1 actions, vet these with the advisory committee, and finalize. Stephanie Showalter Otts (National Sea Grant Law Center) mentioned three regulatory case studies (included on the website): Marbled Crayfish, Red eared Slider and Water Hyacinth. Leah Elwell (Conservation Collaborations, LLC) explained effective outreach tools being developed for management agencies and industry sectors. The project is in its final phase and will be complete by May of 2024. Additional information on the project is available on the site: www.aisincommerce.org

ANS Task Force Prevention Subcommittee Progress Report

Joseph Krieger, NOAA, described Objective 2.1: Evaluate and refine science-based risk analysis procedures to assess potential ANS and pathways for introduction. The planned projects for 2024 are assisting the USGS with expansion of the nonindigenous aquatic species data and the USFWS continuing with Regional Horizon Scans. Suggested projects that have not progressed are: Conduct a comparison between existing risk analysis and forecasting tools, including procedures and results, and provide recommendations for adoption as best management practices, and develop or enhance risk of establishment models that are scalable to Objective, 2.2: Identify priority pathways and species of concern. A completed project was done in which there was an evaluation regarding effectiveness of import prohibitions for preventing entry of new high-risk invasive species into the United States. Ongoing projects include developing a prioritized list of pathways and species that require management attention, committee review of the Hendrickson gap analysis for new introductions for future prevention needs. A suggested project that has not progressed would be addressing information gaps when there is insufficient data to make a priority determination for pathways or species.

Objective 2.3: Encourage implementation of measures to manage high priority pathways and species. One completed project included entering into national prevention practices and agreements. 2022 Watercraft Inspection Best Management Practices was approved, and 2023 Decontamination Fire Equipment Protocols were approved. 

Presentation: Protect the West goes Nationwide

A recommendation from the Western Regional Panel Education and Outreach committee and funding from USFWS for Quagga Zebra Action Plans has advanced the evolution of a nationwide decontamination station mapping tool and public outreach platform. Zach Burnside, Wildlife Forever, presented on the expansion of the Protect the West website.  A vector-based map plugin is supported through this site. The key feature of the site is a call to action to find clean decontamination stations near you. The site to get involved includes: https://www.wildlifeforever.org/protect-the-west/. 

Presentation: Words have power: time to revisit invasive species nomenclature?

Tim Campbell (Wisconsin Sea Grant) presented on the importance of names of species. Common names are important for outreach by science-based professions with the public but can cause prejudice and harm among people. The Asian Murder Hornet was given as an example of a place-based name that caused harm within a community. Several case studies were used to demonstrate how people may perform undesirable actions due to being misinformed, such as killing Red Rock Crabs that were misnamed as an invasive Japanese Crab. Some evidence has shown it would be helpful to name a species related to the way it looks or a key behavior or impact of the species. The emerald ash borer is a good example of a name that helps identify a species and explain what it does.  For aquatic species, the “fuzzy mitten crab” may be a better name than the Chinese Mitten Crab, and the “five spine shore crab” a more helpful name than the European green crab, which isn’t just European and isn’t always green. Moving forward, new names should aid public awareness in identification and impacts. These names would help achieve communication and program management goals while reducing any unintended consequences, including discrimination and harm to communities, as a result of placed-based names being used with militaristic language, which is often used in invasive species communication. Invasive Species Language Workshop takes place on February 27 and 28 (in-person) at the AGU Conference Center in DC.

A question was asked regarding if countries use scripting words when creating common names, or is this practice unique to North America? This type of practice occurs worldwide, e.g., Japan calling the bullfrog “American”. There is a global call to action on eliminating designations because they are often incorrect and unnecessary.

Outreach Subcommittee Progress Report

Tim Campbell (Wisconsin Sea Grant) provided details on the Outreach Subcommittee 2024 workplan. Highlights include AIS outreach assessment implementation plan, maintain and evaluate the outreach community of practice, maintain the Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers website, and develop training for pet retail workers The recommendations from the Great Lakes and Western Regional Panels regarding inclusive language and building relationships with anglers and duck hunters is being considered by the subcommittee.

The National Summit for Outreach is being planned for the fall 2024. The summit goals are to understand the branding, messaging, and motivations of AIS outreach managers nationally, develop a plan to coordinate and streamline AIS messaging nationally, and broadly communicate short and long-term actions to coordinate and streamline AIS messaging. 

Presentation: Updating the Oregon ANS Management Plan

Robyn Draheim (Samara Group) presented on the updated Oregon ANS Management Plan.  The plan was originally written in 2001 by Portland State University and was primarily focused on research. In 2021, the goal was to remain consistent with the plan and build on it. The biggest changes include 6 new objectives: Prevention, Early Detection and Rapid Response, Control and Management, Education and Outreach, Coordination and Leadership, and Research, Evaluation and Development. Originally there were 89 actions; they removed 31 as some were complete, established in statute, resolved, or were no longer relevant.

The remaining 58 actions were evaluated, updated, expanded, and added by the Steering Committee. There are 73 high priority action items that have funding shortfalls. Some of the challenges include statewide objective alignments. The plan will look to the Oregon Invasive Species Council for oversight. 

There was a motion to approve the plan. The Oregon ANS Plan was unanimously approved.

Control Subcommittee Progress Report

Kim Bogenschutz (Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies) presented on the three objectives or the Control Subcommittee. They include: 4.1, Coordinate development and implementation of ANS Management and Control Plans; 4.2, Identify and communicate effective control and restoration techniques; and 4.3, Identify gaps in available control and restoration measures and encourage innovation.

One of the completed projects within Objective 4.1 is the assessment of existing ANSTF Species Control and Management Plans (Plan). Ongoing projects include seeking plan liaisons and managers and completing the guidance document for Plan approval and development. Another planned project for 2024 is assisting the New Zealand Mudsnail (NZMS) Team to publish the revised plan into the Federal Register. Under Objective 4.2, none of the projects are completed or ongoing to date because discussion is needed with the ANS Task Force regarding relevance of some of the outputs. Potential 2024 projects include exploring the concept of a restoration checklist and developing guidelines to prevent the spread of ANS during restoration. Under Objective 4.3, the completed project was the Control Gaps Survey, which was completed in collaboration with the Research Subcommittee.

Control Plan Updates: The European Green Crab Management Plan did not receive any public comments to date. The NZMS Control Plan draft continues to be edited and will be sent to regional panels in February. The Ruffe Control Plan’s archival recommendation letter may be ready by the May 2024 ANSTF meeting.

The subcommittee members are seeking new members. An important question was posed: How can we be expected to provide oversight, seek accountability, and identify measurable outcomes when there is no funding or dedicated resources for these Plans? An idea was that existing Plans are more difficult, but with new Plans perhaps a host entity should also be designated. This question will be discussed at a later meeting.

Public Comment.

Susan Jewell from the USFWS announced that she will be retiring in 2 weeks. 

There was a motion to adjourn, and it was seconded.  There was no discussion. The meeting was adjourned for first day.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Welcome

Joe Krieger welcomed new attendees and thanked everyone for the prior day’s presentations. 

Legislative Report Working Group Update 

Susan Pasko (USFWs) reported on the progress of the ANSTF Legislative Report. The Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 directed the ANSTF to draft the report. As a result, a work group was established at the July 2023. Some of the common themes within this report are the current legal framework is largely governed by a patchwork of laws, regulations, policies and programs. There is a need to clarify regulatory authorities to identify gaps, redundancies, and weak links and to identify areas for collaboration and leveraging resources. 

A proposed outline for the report will include executive summary, introduction, overview of current AIS legislation, federal coordination, roles and responsibilities of ANSTF federal members and possibly others, recommendations to eliminate gaps, case studies to illustrate recent introductions that occurred as a result of gaps in legislation, and a conclusion. 

There is also a proposed federal agency survey to gather information on gaps in authority. Next steps are to obtain an agreement within the Task Force Federal Members to distribute the survey, reword questions, and send to state AIS coordinators through regional panels and to draft introductory material and case studies for the report.

Presentation: AIS Commission: Updates on Policy Development and Legislative Outreach 

Connor Bevan (American Sportfishing Association) provided an update on draft legislation resulting from the AIS Commission report on invasive species. There is a current draft underway to create an office of invasive species within NOAA to represent NOAA’s lead on the task force. House and Senate Republicans are interested in exploring options, but creation of an Office of Invasive Species within NOAA is in early stages of discussion. 

The Commission Report called for the ANSTF to update coordinated management plans every five years. The report includes a recommendation to develop a comprehensive study to identify regulatory barriers that are hindering control and prevention as well as reviews to existing federal law recommending changes to expedite early detection and rapid response. The draft also addresses provisions to codify and permanently authorize the rapid response fund. The immediate next steps include having the commissioners submit their final input and identify major points in the internal discussion so that coordinated outreach to Capitol Hill can be executed. 

A question was posed from the Great Lakes Commission regarding sharing the draft. Connor voiced getting a formal sign off before sharing externally. A question regarding House and Senate staff conversation was presented.  Connor explained that members in Congress that have invasive species issues in their districts understand the challenges. There’s been good reception, but now there are conversations about dealing with jurisdictional challenges.

Regional Panel Recommendations

Northeast Panel

1. The Northeast Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel recommends that the Task Force identify additional funding for regional panels.
   Response: To address the panel recommendation, the Co-chairs believe this issue needs to be handled from an authorization, appropriation, and President’s budget perspectives.  The FWS will continue to work through President’s budget process to address the Administration’s highest priority work identified for ANS.  We believe fully funding the Regional Panels at authorized levels is also an indication of support, while also acknowledging that the current funding levels are not commensurate with the work required of Regional Panels under NANPCA.

Great Lakes Panel

1. Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species recommends that the ANSTF outreach subcommittee consider their Position Statement on Appropriate Communication Messages for a national position on language & naming issues for invasive species communication.
   Response: This recommendation has been forwarded to the Outreach Subcommittee, and discussions are underway to explore how to address this need within the subcommittee’s workplan. The subcommittee chair will report out on steps taken or planned at the next ANSTF meeting. (Action Item)
2. Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species recommends that relevant federal agencies establish a plan to clarify policy implications of research, development, and deployment of genetic biocontrol tools with invasive species applications, and provide updates to the ANSTF and regional ANS panels on progress. Further, we recommend that the ANSTF set up a work group dedicated to the topic of genetic biocontrol to facilitate communication among regional ANS panels and relevant federal agencies ,and others.
3. Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species recommends that relevant federal agencies engage Tribes and Indigenous Nations in discussions regarding the development and deployment of genetic biocontrol tools and provide updates to the ANSTF and regional ANS panels on progress.
   Response: This recommendation has been forwarded to the Control Subcommittee for consideration. The subcommittee will determine if a workgroup is needed, including exploring is there are similar groups that already exists that can provide assist with this request. The subcommittee will provide a recommendation at the next ANS Task Force meeting.  If it is determined that a work group is warranted the Control Subcommittee will provide a recommendation to establish this working group, including a proposed scope of work, at the May ANSTF meeting.  (Action Item)

Western Regional Panel

1. The WRP respectfully recommends that federal engagement outreach/meetings be scheduled to accommodate time zones for all parties, including Pacific Territories.
   Response: The ANS Task Force members will work with the Executive Secretary to determine the appropriate means to communicate this need to the appropriate parties. 
2. The Western Regional Panel on ANS recommends that the ANSTF develop partnerships with B.A.S.S. and Ducks Unlimited to encourage adoption of clean, drain, dry aquatic invasive species prevention messaging to share with their memberships. Providing outreach content (e.g., Clean Drain Dry or Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers) or guidance as supportive resources for these partners would be beneficial.
   Response: We recommend that the Outreach Subcommittee reach out to explore opportunities for increased AIS outreach. Outreach subcommittee should report on progress in engaging with these groups at the May 2024 meeting. (Action Item)
3. The WRP respectfully recommends that the creation of and support for a National Management and Control Plan Coordinator be taken into consideration. Such a role would provide structured management plan implementation oversight, provide accountability, and identify measurable performance outcomes, including overall objective completion and responsible parties. 
   Response: The control subcommittee is currently working on a process to improve oversight of the species control plans which includes identifying a plan liaison and a plan manager for each plan. The Control Subcommittee is currently working on filling these roles for existing, active plans. We proposed that time be given to the control subcommittee to establish these positions. Once established, we can re-evaluate this process to determine if additional improvements in oversight and accountability for the species management plans are needed. 

Mississippi River Basin Panel (jointly recommended with the Western Regional Panel)

1. The MRBP recommends the administration works with Congress to enact legislation that improves protection of U.S. biosecurity from invasive species, pathogens, and parasites. As an initial step, the ANS Task Force should include recommendations for legislative, programmatic, or regulatory changes to address U.S. biosecurity from aquatic invasive species (AIS) in the Task Force’s report to Congress required by the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022.
   Response: Following this meeting, the ANSTF Legislative Working Group will be reaching out to ANSTF members and the regional panels to gather information for the report mandated by the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act. The Mississippi River Basin Panel, and other panels, are encouraged to fully engage in this effort to ensure that all gaps pertaining to biosecurity are adequately represented in the report.

National EDRR Framework Implementation Updates

Hilary Smith (Department of the Interior) provided an update on the implementation of the National EDRR Framework, which includes work across the DOI agencies within 11 different offices in order to be strategic as possible.  The EDRR Framework provides the structure to identify strategies and shared priorities for focusing limited resources and enhancing partnerships and on-the-ground actions necessary to stem the tide of invasive species. Recommendations within this report included coordination, funding, EDRR integration, pilot initiatives, and science and innovation. 

The mission of the Framework is to find and eradicate invasive species new to the United States or those demonstrating secondary spread by coordinating across federal and non-federal partners and investing in innovative approaches for surveillance, data integration, and response capabilities for natural resource management.  Various actions steps are presented in an EDRR workflow chart, including planning, detecting, reporting, and responding. The benefits of a National EDRR Framework include access to more tools and technology, EDRR information, rapid response funding, surveillance and response capacity, and a national network for collaboration. 

A pilot hotspot study planned in Southeast streams focuses on communication and surveillance. Communication plans are important before tools are implemented when dealing with invasive species and DNA.  Other pilot programs include the Rapid Response Fund for AIS and DOI Interjurisdictional Invasive Species Rapid Response Team (IInSRRT). Coordination and communication are very important between non-federal and federal entities. This needs to be durable long-term.

Smith posed example questions for considerations regarding the draft mission statement, successful implementation of the framework, outreach with non-federal entities, and durable structure for collaboration. To provide input to these questions, a suggestion was made to establish a joint subcommittee to address recommendations between the ANSTF and Invasive Species Advisory Committee and functions under the National Invasive Species Council. Following discussion, this motion was approved unanimously by the ANSTF. 

Susan Pasko (USFWS) provided an update on the Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species. Rapid response is defined as a process employed to eradicate the founding population of non-native, potentially invasive, species in a specific location before that species begins to reproduce or spreads so widely that eradication is no longer feasible. The eligible taxa are aquatic invasive plants and animals. Locations and applicants include federal and state agencies, U.S. territories, Native American tribal governments or organizations, and interstate organizations. Rapid response awards are made available through a quarterly competitive award program. The notice of funding opportunity posted on August 15, closed on October 16. It reopened Nov. 15 and closed Jan. 15, 2024. The USFWS received a total of 12 eligible proposals, including numerous species, such as zebra mussels, giant salvinia, European Green Crab, and others. Funding requests ranged from $68,191 to $531,758.

A question was posed and answered that funds do not have to be spent in its entirety for a fiscal year. Challenges include environmental compliance requirements and the general workload associated with the grant program. 

Aimee Agnew (USGS) presented on Siren: The National EDRR Information System. Siren is an online platform for invasive species information sharing and collaboration that allows for data accessibility, data interoperability, and bridging the gap in deciphering research for decision-making, research versus reality. The main goals of Siren are to foster collaboration at national, regional, and local levels, improve situational awareness of biological threats, support effective early detection and rapid response efforts, and increase understanding of management outcomes. 

A demonstration of Siren was given to illustrate how invasive species information is accessed. There are ways for interested individuals to get involved and network, including working groups, community of practice, email updates, and newsletters. 

Presentation: Make the Connection: The Next Generation Invasive Species Expert Database

Susan Pasko (USFWS)andAimee Agnew (USGS) presented on the enhancement of the Invasive Species Experts Database. This database was one of the first products of the ANS Task Force, and it was originally developed to help the public find local experts in their region and help ANS Coordinators and other first tier experts find experts on specific topics. Today, the database is seldom used. It is recommended that the Task Force evaluate the utility of and need for continued maintenance. The Task Force has recommended that the Experts Database be expanded and modernized to fill needs of AIS community, natural resource managers, and the public. The database will be expanded to include terrestrial experts as well as aquatic experts. Users will also be able to search by additional terms, including location expertise, areas of expertise in invasive species management, habitat discipline, and species expertise. A demonstration was provided to show how the new database will function. ANSTF members will be invited to take a survey to help refine the database before it goes live later this year.

Presentation: Integration of eDNA into the NAS Database

Maggie Hunter (USGS) explained that integrating Environmental DNA (eDNA) into the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) database is a long-term effort. Environmental DNA studies and design vary and must be done properly and with the correct tools. The applications of eDNA include invasive species, endangered species, fisheries stock assessments, food webs, biodiversity, and remote sampling. The NAS database used a consensus approach for the eDNA layer. During this community consensus, seven open Town Halls were hosted by the team followed by opportunities for review. 

The scope of the project is currently limited to probe-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and digital PCR data from water or aquatic sediment. They will also be providing detection and/or non-detect results, metadata, and experimental methodology used. The communication plan illustrates the communication channels that will be used and when it will be released to the public. Posting data on the NAS database requires validation of methods in the laboratory and field, the use of multiple negative and positive controls at each stage of the process, and best practices to reduce contamination. Reducing contamination is a significant protocol in the eDNA process. 

The Data Submission process includes 2 levels of review: the initial level of request and, if approved, an application, which includes a more in-depth review of the data. The dataset is considered for release by AIS managers following the development of a communication plan. The guidance document and communication plan have been published. The next step includes metabarcoding data and template development using community consensus approach.

A question was posed regarding publication to the public. It was explained that it will go through managers and other steps before states are identified. 

Another concern was raised about the ability of the average person to relate to the significance of eDNA, how it would be perceived, how the states would address eDNA, and what press releases or publicity will come from this database. It was explained that federal agencies continue to work with the states with information that is checked, and that poor interpretation could be present, but there is a disclaimer present on the database.

Presentation: eDNA National Strategy

Chris Meyers (Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History) provided an overview of the eDNA National Strategy. The eDNA Task Team and National Aquatic eDNA Strategy Writing Team consists of 20 Writing team members, representing 10 agencies. The broader eDNA Task Team has 33 members, representing 16 agencies. The need for eDNA readiness is due to invasive species, surveillance of harmful microbes, surveillance of harmful algae, ocean exploration , fisheries assessments, biodiversity monitoring, and endangered species.

The vision for the strategy is to harness the power of eDNA to explore, map, monitor, and better understand aquatic life to sustain and restore biological resources into the future. The implementation plan will include sampling, filtering, extracting, and analyzing. The eDNA Strategy inauguration was on January 26, 2022, and on June 3, 2024, there will be a public release of the strategy. 

The Goals of the National Aquatic eDNA Strategy include Coordinating and Communicating efforts to integrate eDNA methods into decision making, Build Capacity, Infrastructure, the Research Enterprise needed to employ eDNA technology at a large scale, and characterizing aquatic life in the U.S. Waters. 

Presentation: Snake River Mussel Rapid Response

Nicholas Zurfluh (Idaho State Department of Agriculture) presented on the quagga mussel rapid response plan in the Snake River, which including the following steps: 1) Notify impacted entities, 2) Implement containment measures, 3) Conduct delimiting surveys, 4) Explore treatment options.  A communications team was established that produced media releases, created a webpage, and created an invasive species hotline.

Containment included waterbody closures, with the assistance of law enforcement. The immediate delimit survey occurred from Twin Falls Reservoir to Centennial Park, but also extended upstream and downstream. On September 27, 2023, near the area of Shoshone Falls, a quagga mussel veliger was detected by a dive team. A treatment plan has been discussed with local agencies. Everyone was in favor of the chemical treatment selected.

Public messaging regarding the treatment was important and included worker protection standard bilingual warning signage, message boards, paid advertisements, coordination with homeowner associations with private docks, and a town hall. The treatment target area of 16 miles. The copper was allowed to dissipate gradually, with the intent of providing a lethal dose for any present free-floating veligers.

Each of the three treatment areas required a unique approach, including the staging and moving of equipment. The treatment started on October 3, 2023, and was continuous until October 13, 2023. During this timeframe, 46,475 gallons of Natrix was applied, and the copper levels were monitored until they reached base levels on October 18, 2023. Currently post-treatment monitoring is being conducted, and samples will be taken about May of 2024, when water temperatures increase. Equipment used during the process included a triple rinse application. All watercraft or water-related equipment was decontaminated. The Mid-Snake River will be aggressive monitored. A question regarding treatment cost was posed and answered. The treatment cost was estimated at $3 million (2-month window), which included the cost of the product itself as well as the application. Addition funds were used for supplies and labor.

Presentation: Marimo Moss Ball - Zebra Mussel Pathway Rapid Response After Action Assessment

Tania Siemens (Oregon State University) presented on the progress of the Marimo Moss Ball - Zebra Mussel Pathway Rapid Response After Action Assessment. The approach for this report was to conduct interviews with people involved in the response, beginning when zebra mussels were first detected on February 25, 2021.  After confirmation, an alert was sent broadly by the USGS on March 2, 2021. All moss ball shipments were stopped March 4, 2021. The USFWSe worked with states and industry to develop decontamination protocols to destroy moss balls already in the supply chain. 

The report conducted a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis. Strengths included a high level of organization and communication. Some weaknesses include gaps in statutory authority that led to gaps in detection and reporting., a delay in the national alert, and lack of preparedness for new organisms in trade resulting from a complex pet distribution network. r Opportunities included development of a national EDRR plan for the organisms in trade. The report will include 5 state case studies, including Florida, Indiana, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming that can be used to help develop a national plan. 

Recommendations include addressing gaps in inspection authority, formalizing communication and notification systems, improving notification systems, decontamination and similar procedures, additional funding, and having tools and products enhancements, such as eDNA. 

Presentation: Invasives Free USA and the Wild Spotter Invasive Species Ambassador Training

Mike Ielmini (U.S. Forest Service) had a call-to-action quote from the Dalai Lama: “It is not enough to be compassionate; you must act.” The U.S. Forest Service is investing in expansion of monitoring and training. The importance of invasive species recognition is to emphasize how important it is within the community and to talk to one another about what is going on where we live. The best successes happen when people are committed and care. The training is geared to protect what’s important to the community and how it thrives. There is an Invasive Species Ambassador Training that will take place February 3-7, 2025 and will focus on training, learning, knowledge, coaching, skills, development, and support. 

EDRR Subcommittee Progress Report

Wesley Daniel (USGS) provided an update on behalf of the EDRR Subcommittee. The subcommittee thought critically about the work elements in the past year. Under objective 3.1, Facilitate monitoring efforts to detect and report new sightings of ANS, the subcommittee discussed developing a monitoring framework The subcommittee will also continue to aid the efforts in horizon scans. A plan for capacity building in NAS to meet stakeholder needs is also progressing, and a finalized version should be produced in the Fall of 2024.

Under objective 3.2, Develop processes to rapidly assess new species detections and determine appropriate management actions, several decisional tools have been developed with support from the USGS.

Under objective 3.3, facilitate the development of capacities to respond rapidly to new invasions, the rapid response fund for AIS has been established, and the first request for proposals has been completed. The subcommittee is also aiding in the development and upkeep of the Invasive Species Experts Database. Moving forward, the subcommittee will consider developing a training course similar to the one developed for hazard analysis and critical control points (HAACP) for Rapid Response. The last item for discussion was establishing a joint working group with the Invasive Species Advisory Committee to provide input into the implementation of the National EDRR Framework (see decisional item). 

Research Subcommittee Progress Report

Susan Pasko (USFWS) provided the update on behalf of the Research Subcommittee. There are 3 major objectives: Objective 5.1. Establish ANSTF research priorities and identify prospective partners. Completed/ Ongoing projects under Objective 5.1. include: develop an annual priority research list that shows both regional and national priorities and Survey ANS Task Force members and regional panels for a list of research entities that have the resources and expertise to address priority research needs. A planned project for 2024 under this same objective is to update the National AIS priority list and the survey. A project that has not progressed is the Regional Stepdown of Annual Priorities List, although some regional lists do exist already.

Objective 5.2.  Facilitate activities that support priority ANS research needs. Under this objective, the subcommittee has identified measures to promote priority research needs within the scientific community. A suggested project that has not progressed under this objective includes developing a model for ANS Task Force research grant program, including exploration of options for obtaining funds to administer the program. 

Objective 5.3. Track and disseminate study results to incorporate into NAS management decisions and activities. Under this objective, the subcommittee has developed a system to track progress of AIS research priorities. Planned projects for 2024 are to create a database to track completed studies that address priority research needs identified by the ANS Task Force and to identify and implement measures to communicate results from priority research to the ANS Task Force and appropriate audiences.

Meeting Summary

Decisional and Action Items are listed at the beginning of the meeting minutes. 

Public Comment

No comments. 

Adjourn meeting

There was a motion to adjourn, and it was seconded.  There was no discussion. The meeting was adjourned.