30 MINUTE TV VIDEO -"AQUATIC INVADERS"
ML&SA has a 30 Minute TV Video to loan to member associations. This video would be a great presentation on the Exotic Invaders in Michigan Lakes for your lake association meeting. "Aquatic Invaders" takes a look at the threats that these aquatic nuisance species pose, and how scientists, the public, and policy makers are working to prevent the spread of these potentially devastating invaders.
Millions of Americans rely on our fresh and marine water for food, transportation and recreation. Yet now, the very survival of many water-based industries - particularly sport and commercial fishing - is in danger due to these invasive species or "aquatic invaders".
A growing number of non-indigenous (non-native) animals and plants are invading coastal and inland waters in North America. Fish, crabs and clams originating in Europe and Asia threaten our native populations from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico and from the eastern seaboard to the Pacific Northwest. In their native waters, these organisms may be relatively harmless and even beneficial. However, when transplanted elsewhere, they can create serious problems.
For example, a small mussel that invaded the Great Lakes just over a decade ago has upset a delicate ecosystem, affected sport and commercial fishing, and interfered with water supply systems. Tens of millions of dollars are invested annually in control programs. Introduced primarily through the ballast water of ocean-going vessels, this mussel - and other aquatic invaders - have spread rapidly throughout large areas of North America.
EDUCATE YOUR ASSOCIATION MEMBERS - SLOW DOWN THE SPREAD OF THE "AQUATIC INVADERS"