Invasive Species Targeted
The state Department of Environmental Conservation said today that it has formed a new office within the department to focus on invasive species, such as zebra mussels, that are threatening the state’s ecosystem.
Zebra mussels, for instance, have been a major problem in the Finger Lakes, the likely impact of global shipping.
The new Office of Invasive Species will bring together biologists and other experts to develop ways to combat the problem. Eurasian water milfoil and Sirex wood wasps are other critters that will be studied, the DEC said.
“Invasive species compete with, prey upon and can substantially alter the environmental of our native species of plants, fish and wildlife,” said DEC Commissioner Peter Grannis.
Earlier this year, Gov. Spitzer signed a law that creates a state Invasive Species Council, made up of nine state agencies and an advisory committee. The state budget also included $5 million for invasive species programs around the state.
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Has he proposed yet drivers’ licenses for these zebra mussels? The “new” Office of Invasive Species. How new, and how much? Next comes the Commissioner of Invasive Species with a staff of fifty. Order the SUVs and the credit cards!