Invasive species prevention funding proposed

Funds would be allocated to the state Game and Parks Commission to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species under a bill heard by the Revenue Committee March 14.

Under a law passed in 2012, the commission is required to protect Nebraska’s water resources from the potential threat of aquatic invasive species. LB63, introduced this session by Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz, would provide funding for the commission to comply with the law.

Schilz said the costs associated with an aquatic invasive species infestation are extremely high.

“In Nebraska we rely on limited water resources for power, agriculture, sport fishing and other forms of recreation,” he said. “Currently we have very limited funds to implement the regulations passed in 2012.”

Under LB63, half of the sales tax proceeds from the sale or lease of motorboats would be credited to the State Game Fund. The revenue would be earmarked primarily for aquatic invasive species management, with funds also devoted to motorboat access development.

Jeff Buettner, representing the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, testified in support of the bill, saying invasive species often attach to boats that are then transported into Nebraska.

“Inadvertent human transport is the main pathway for bringing aquatic invasive species into the state,” Buettner said. “We believe it’s in the state’s best interest for the Legislature to take action.”

Representing the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Karie Decker also supported the bill. She said many of Nebraska’s surrounding states have active infestations of zebra mussels, classified as an aquatic invasive species.

“Nebraska receives many visitors from these surrounding states,” she said. “We have a unique opportunity to prevent the introduction of one of the most damaging aquatic invasive species.”

No one testified in opposition to the bill and the committee took no immediate action on it.