.. The "PROTECT YOUR WATERS" - "Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers" campaign is a partnership of private organizations , private citizens, and the United States Fish & Wildlife Service, Branch of Invasive Species in Washington, D.C... It currently has over 300 affiliated partners and is growing. The campaign is designed to elevate the prevention behaviors amongst people who recreate on the water and raise their awareness about this issue. - THAT'S US!
.. Invasive species, (plant & animal,) are seldom benign since they enter ecological settings different than the ones in which they developed. The ecosystems which are invaded have little defense against the new presence.
.. Often times the results are devastating. The Lake Trout introduced into Yellowstone Lake represent such a situation. The result is that the Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout are in a battle for their very existence... The New Zealand Mud Snail is another example. This mollusk is rapidly advancing on many fronts in the United States. Another mollusk, the Zebra Mussell is marching upstream as we speak.
.. The campaign maintains a web site full of information that will allow us to combat the invasive species by altering our behaviors. The things that we need to do are relatively simple and will make a big difference.
.. Fly Fisherfolks tend to think that the problem is primarily one of recreational boating and other aquatic sports - NOT SO.
.. Take the time to visit http://www.protectyourwaters.net/ and become familiar with the simple things we can do.
.. The web site also contains news and information about invasive species across the country. It is maintained as part of the "The Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force" that is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to preventing and controlling aquatic nuisance species. The Task Force consists of 10 Federal agency representatives and 12 Ex-officio members, and is co-chaired by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (check the Fisheries Page.)
.. The front line of defense is the United States Coast Guard, and their Ballast Water Management program.
.. Education and vigilance will help stem the tide of increasing threats to our precious fisheries. Take the time to educate yourself, AND tell a friend.