Jauch, Milroy proposal could slow invasive species spread

A bill written by state Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, and Rep. Nick Milroy, D-Superior, targeting the spread of invasive species cleared another hurdle Wednesday.

The Assembly Committee on Natural Resources moved forward with a proposal to get tough on motorists who spread aquatic invasive species across the state.

The bill was designed to strengthen current laws to limit the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Under the new law boaters will be prohibited from placing water craft in navigable waters that have any aquatic plants or aquatic animals attached. Motorists will also be prohibited from transporting aquatic plants and aquatic animals attached to vehicles or trailers on any highway.

Currently, the law prohibits transport of only a small number of species, which makes it difficult to enforce. Law enforcement officers had to be able to identify species of plants and animals and motorists had to have a reason to believe that they were transporting them.

Milroy said this is an important piece of legislation for northern Wisconsin.

“Our future economy in northern Wisconsin will depend on the measures we take today to protect our outstanding natural resources,” Milroy said in a prepared statement. “Clean, clear and cold freshwater is going to be an extremely valuable resource throughout the 21st century.”

This legislation is a step toward protecting our long term economic interests, the representative said.

The bill, which has already been passed by the Senate, will be taken up soon for a vote by the Assembly.

Milroy said he hopes with the fishing and boating season upon us, the bill will be passed quickly and signed into law by Gov. Jim Doyle

Tags: invasive species, news, jauch, milroy