BLM Arizona – Aquatic Invasive Species Program Grant

Unrestricted, anyone may apply

a. Background:

BLM and Arizona Game & Fish Department (AGFD) established the first cooperative agreement in 2010 to help implement conservation actions to address aquatic invasive species concerns on the lower Colorado River. There is a need to address current and new threats from a variety of aquatic invasive species extend well beyond the initial effort of the original agreements. Lake Havasu and the Lower Colorado River was the initial focus and will still be a major part projects implemented. However, additional effort may be considered outside of the Lower Colorado River. BLM long term priorities for the Fishery Program support local involvement and support of implementation of efforts identified by the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)Task Force. This included providing funding to select field offices. These funds will be used to assist local field office with implementation of conservation actions that address aquactic invasive species.

Current effort identified by the AIS task force includes getting personal on the ground implementing public outreach and assisting with de contamination efforts.In additions, this agreement will increase the effectiveness of outreach and educations efforts that focus on the following areas:

a) Limiting the spread of invasive mussels through containment, especially by inspection

b) Educating the public and BLM operators about decontamination of watercraft moving from invaded water bodies to jurisdictions currently free of dreissenid mussels

c) Limiting the spread of invasive mussels through containment by increasing compliance with state laws.

b. Objectives:

The objective of this agreement is to assist the AGFD and the AIS task force with implementing conservations action aim at educating the public and reduce the risk of spread of AIS beyond current location. Increasing public awareness of AIS law and best management practices by providing:

a) Information distribution and personal assistance to BLM boating customers and concessioners about measure to reduce the threat spread.

b) Provide youth involvement and awareness of AIS, what they can do to help, and the importance of a healthy, productive aquatic environment to their future.

c) Continued survey of boaters on Lake Havasu and adjoining Lower Colorado River waters regarding angler satisfaction and AIS issues.

d) Continued support and coordination with Lower Colorado River stakeholders to find cooperative solutions to AIS regulation, and sustained aquatic benefits to adjoining communities