The role of the Forest Service in aquatic invasive species research
This article is part of a larger document. View the larger document here.Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems include the most imperiled taxa in the United States, and invasive species are the second leading contributor to this imperilment. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service is legally mandated to sustainably manage aquatic habitats and native species on National Forest System (NFS) lands. Invasive species add complexity and uncertainty to natural resource management, and, thus, invasive species research is needed to guide effective, science-based management of aquatic systems. Although Forest Service Research and Development (R&D) scientists have much expertise to apply, aquatic invasive species research has not been an agency focus. We identify areas in which the Forest Service is well positioned to contribute research that other organizations are not addressing.