SENATOR COLLINS INTRODUCES BILL AIMED AT ELIMINATING INVASIVE AQUATIC PLANTSMonday, March 05, 2007 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Susan Collins today introduced legislation aimed at eliminating the growing threat posed by invasive aquatic plants, such as milfoil. The National Aquatic Invasive Species Act (NAISA) of 2007 attempts to protect America's aquatic ecosystems using a comprehensive approach; including targeting prevention, rapid response, screening, as well as research and outreach. This bipartisan legislation, coauthored by Senator Carl Levin (D-MI), would reauthorize and strengthen the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 to protect U.S. waters by preventing new introductions of aquatic invasive species. "Aquatic invasive species threaten Maine's drinking water systems, recreation, wildlife habitat, lakefront real estate, and fisheries. Plants, such as Variable Leaf Milfoil, are crowding out native species. Invasive Asian shore crabs are taking over Southern New England's tidal pools and have advanced well into Maine -- to the potential detriment of Maine's lobster and clam industries," said Senator Collins. "While I am proud of the actions that Maine and many other states are taking to protect against invasive species, all too often their efforts have not been enough. Protecting the integrity of our lakes, streams, and coastlines from invading species cannot be accomplished by individual states alone. We need a uniform, nationwide approach to deal effectively with invasive species. The National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2007 will help my state and states throughout the nation detect, prevent and respond to aquatic invasive species." This multi-pronged legislation includes provisions to regulate ballast discharge from commercial vessels; prevent invasive species introductions from other pathways; support state management plans; screen live aquatic organisms entering the United States for the first time in trade; authorize rapid response funds; create education and outreach programs; and authorize funds for state and regional grants.