Fee proposed to address aquatic invasive species

The potential impact of aquatic invasive species on local ecosystems and surface water was the focus of a bill heard by the Natural Resources Committee Jan. 21.

LB142, introduced by Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz, would create the Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Program to prevent and mitigate the damage caused by species such as the zebra mussel and silver carp.

Schilz said in the bill’s statement of intent that “these species have proven destructive to the ecosystems and usability of surface waters in surrounding states, and steps must be taken to prevent their establishment in Nebraska.”

The bill would impose a fee every three years on motorboat registrations, both new and renewal, of between $5 and $10. The collected fees could be used to:
• monitor and sample waters for aquatic invasive species;
• hire personnel;
• purchase equipment to inspect and decontaminate water;
• provide additional enforcement, education and research relating to aquatic invasive species; and
• conduct aquatic invasive species projects as needed.

Owners of motorboats registered outside Nebraska would be required to purchase an annual aquatic invasive species stamp for between $10 and $15. These fees would be remitted to the state Game Fund.

Karie Decker, an assistant division administrator with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, testified in favor of the bill, saying that zebra mussels in particular filter water and remove food particles that would normally support other native aquatic species.

“Aquatic invasive species can threaten the quality and availability of our water resources and infrastructure,” she said. “We have a unique opportunity to prevent the spread of some of the most devastating aquatic invasive species.”

Jeff Buettner, public relations coordinator for the Central Public Power and Irrigation District, also supported the bill. He said the prevalence of out-of-state boaters at Ogallala’s Lake McConaughy places Nebraska’s water resources at particularly high risk.

“Nebraska’s waters are considered a public resource and a public benefit,” Buettner said. “We believe it is in the best interests of Nebraskans for the Legislature to take the necessary steps to fund [LB142].”

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