WHEREAS, Louisiana has been and continues to be invaded by exotic fish species released in other states; recent examples include grass carp, bighead carp and silver carp, and
WHEREAS, two of Louisiana’s sister states have legalized the introduction of exotic black carp, a species that will eventually invade Louisiana waters, and
WHEREAS, invasion and establishment of exotic aquatic species is often detrimental to native species and their habitats, and
WHEREAS, introduction and invasion of exotic aquatic species into Louisiana waters should be curtailed and the pathways of invasion closed, and
WHEREAS, preventative action should begin now at the regional, state and local levels.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation urges and requests the National Nuisance Species Task Force and the Invasive Species Council to form an interstate organization composed of states with common watersheds and river basins, and that the states prepare a cooperative plan addressing the release, control and management of exotic species.
Adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in convention assembled, March 12, 2000 in Alexandria, Louisiana.