Resolution: Reauthorization of the National Invasive Species Act (NISA) of 1996
Adopted on October 11, 2001

Whereas, the invasion of nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species (ANS) in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system and inland waters continues to threaten the ecological integrity, biological diversity and economic health of the region; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species recognizes that ballast water (liquid and entrained solids) from ocean-going commercial vessels is a primary vector for the introduction of ANS to the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Panel is further concerned over other commercial and recreational activities (e.g., aquaculture, recreational boating, aquarium trade, horticulture) and their role in providing pathways for ANS introduction and spread in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Panel is developing a series of recommendations for the reauthorization of the National Invasive Species Act, focusing on needs in the areas of institutional framework/implementation; research and monitoring; ballast water and standards (PDF); information/education/outreach; and non-ballast prevention and control; and

Whereas, this policy statement will help inform the impending reauthorization process for the National Invasive Species Act.

Therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission urges its member jurisdictions to consider those strategic actions that are not currently part of existing state policy and identify ways and means necessary for their adoption and implementation; and

Be It Finally Resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission applauds the Great Lakes Panel for its leadership in developing a policy position on NISA reauthorization via consultation with the diversity of interests within the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; and

• The introduction and spread of aquatic nuisance species must be addressed as a regional, national and international issue, and with a multi-jurisdictional approach that promotes consistency among Great Lakes-St. Lawrence jurisdictions with regard to laws, policies and programs; and
• Outcomes from the Great Lakes Panel symposium, Looking Forward, Looking Back: Assessing ANS Prevention and Control, will be carefully considered by the Commission, given that they:
1. Recognize innovative policies, programs and measures that have advanced prevention and control efforts over the last decade
2. Identify gaps and unmet needs, with a particular emphasis on ballast management and "no ballast on board" issues
3. Promote regional consistency among Great Lakes jurisdictions with regard to prospective laws, policies and programs; and
4. Call for harmonization of the NISA reauthorization priorities of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region with those of other regions, thereby producing a united front in providing guidance to Congress.

Adopted unanimously at the 2001 Annual Meeting of the Great Lakes Commission, October 11.