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| Date: | May 10, 2011 | | Contact Name: | Chris Van Guilder | | Contact Phone: | 651-296-1388 | | Contact Email: | christopher.vanguilder@senate.mn | | For Immediate Release | |
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| SENATE PASSES REFORMS TO IMPROVE FIGHT AGAINST AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES |
(ST. PAUL) – The Minnesota Senate passed legislation on Tuesday that broadens and increases the ability of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to combat aquatic invasive species (AIS). The legislation, Senate File 1115, passed the Senate with a unanimous, bi-partisan vote of 64-0.
The legislation contains policy and technical changes to aquatic invasive species and aquatic plant management.
Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, and chief-author of the bill commented, “Aquatic invasive species are a threat to our natural resources across the state, and we must have a sense of urgency in dealing with this issue. Fishermen, boaters, members of both parties and the governor have all expressed a desire to change the pace in containing and fighting the spread of these species. With a new fishing season around the corner, we will have a new program in place to continue to protect our lakes, rivers and streams. We strongly urge the governor to sign this important piece of legislation.”
Provisions and modifications in the bill include:
· Increased authority for inspections and enforcement
· Broadened control requirements to all water-related equipment
· Required notification upon identification of an invasive species in an area where that species has not been known to exist.
· Ability for conservation officers or licensed peace officers to inspect watercraft stopped at a water access site or at a check station.
· Increased penalties for violations
· Required service provider permit
· Restricted use of equipment exposed to infested waters
· Expanded training requirements to service providers and bait harvesting workers
· Required display of AIS rules decal on watercraft (decal provided free of charge)
The bill includes specific exemptions for seasonal equipment such as docks and boatlifts and for emergency response vehicles. It simplifies requirements for commercial fishing equipment used on Lake Superior, streamlines the process for obtaining invasive aquatic plant management permits, and consolidates reporting requirements.
Senate File 1115 passed the Senate on May 10 and awaits House action before being sent to Governor Dayton for final approval, with the hope that it will be signed prior to the opening of the fishing season.
If signed into law, the provisions will take effect on June 13, 2011, allowing time for officials and enthusiasts to understand and adopt the changes.
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