Improving the management of invasive species in the mississippi river watershed -- this integrated project will address invasive species challenges across the MRW through the following objectives:…

The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service awarded a cooperative agreement totaling $867,601 to Louisiana State University Agricultural Center on September 1, 2026, under the Agricultural Research Basic and Applied Research program (CFDA 10.001). The award funds an integrated project to improve invasive species management across the Mississippi River Watershed through five coordinated objectives: enhancing surveillance and early detection via multi-state monitoring programs using field surveys, trapping, and environmental DNA technology; developing and optimizing control strategies through advanced biological control of aquatic weeds; advancing host resistance and preventative approaches via crop resistance screening and native plant-based suppression methods; quantifying ecological and economic impacts of invasive species and establishing science-based management thresholds; and integrating data into decision-support tools and outreach materials for stakeholder adoption of effective management practices. Work will be performed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with a period of performance extending through July 31, 2030. The cooperative agreement is structured to operate in cooperation with the Agricultural Research Service's in-house research programs as defined by Congress.

Improving the management of invasive species in the mississippi river watershed -- this integrated project will address invasive species challenges across the MRW through the following objectives: 1. Enhance surveillance and early detection implement coordinated, multi-state monitoring programs using field surveys, trapping, and emerging technologies (e.g., edna) to detect invasive species and track their spread. 2. Develop and optimize control strategies advance biological control of aquatic weeds through improved mass-rearing and deployment methods. 3. Advance host resistance and preventative strategies develop crop resistance screening programs and evaluate native plant-based approaches to suppress invasive species establishment and spread. 4. Quantify impacts and establish management thresholds assess ecological and economic impacts of invasive species, including effects on crop yields and native biodiversity, and develop science-based action thresholds and intervention strategies. 5. Integrate data into decision-support and outreach programs deliver actionable recommendations, decision-support tools, and outreach materials to stakeholders, enabling rapid adoption of effective management practices.