The project purpose is to implement a coordinated approach to minimize the ecological and socio-economic impacts of aquatic invasive species in the marine and freshwater environments of massachusetts

This $126,699 federal Project Grant awarded by the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service on September 1, 2023 will enable the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation to implement a coordinated approach to minimize the ecological and socio-economic impacts of aquatic invasive species in the marine and freshwater environments of Massachusetts. Key activities to be performed include purchasing supplies and equipment, attending symposia and conferences, providing financial assistance to groups for prevention, control and eradication of aquatic invasive species, and producing and distributing public outreach materials. Expected outcomes are to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species, prevent and control their spread, increase public awareness, and create a healthier ecosystem. The grant will provide funding support to various public groups as sub-recipients to carry out prevention, control and eradication activities. The project is funded under the Fish and Wildlife Management Assistance program (CFDA 15.608), which aims to support state-level management of aquatic nuisance species.

Activities to be performed include: purchasing supplies and equipment attending symposia, conferences and lake meetings providing financial assistance to groups to prevent, control and eradicate aquatic invasive species and produce and distribute public information outreach documents and supplies. Expected outcomes are to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species, prevent and control aquatic invasive species, have an informed public, and create a healthier ecosystem. Intended beneficiaries are all users of inland and marine waters in massachusetts, as well as the state s native aquatic species. Sub-recipients include various public groups who will to prevent, control and eradicate aquatic invasive species.