Control of Newly Found Hydrilla in Indian Lake

This project will respond to the first detection in Rhode Island of the invasive aquatic weed, Hydrilla verticilatta. If left unmanaged, hydrilla has the potential to change fish and wildlife habitats, and could lead to reduced fishing, recreation, local tourism, lakeshore home values, and tax revenues. The project will be the first early detection rapid response effort by the State of Rhode Island that addresses a new invasive plant with herbicides and will serve as a model for planning future responses.

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The Rapid Response Fund

The U.S. Department of the Interior, as part of 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 authorization for ecosystem restoration, invested $1 million in 2023 to establish a pilot Rapid Response Fund for Aquatic Invasive Species with an additional $1 million envisioned each year 2024 through 2026 as part of advancing a National Early Detection Rapid Response Framework. The Rapid Response Fund is intended make financial resources available to assess and support response actions for quick containment or eradication of newly detected 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 , thus avoiding costly long-term and wide-spread control efforts. 

Visit our frequently asked questions page to learn more about the award structure and application process.

The Aquatic Invasive Species Program

The Service's Aquatic Invasive Species program safeguards waterways and communities from invasive species by working with partners and educating the public. Our regional coordinators work closely with the public and private sector partners and our network of conservation offices to conduct on-the-ground control projects and early detection surveillance and monitoring, and provide technical support. The Service also develops regulations to prohibit the importation and some transport of harmful species known as injurious wildlife and serves as a co-chair to the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.