Addressing State Funding Assistance Through the Arizona State Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan: An Exercise in Policy Writing

Abstract

Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) represent a growing problem in Arizona that is receiving little funding attention. With the objective of addressing this problem in a coordinated manner between state and federal agencies, the task of writing the Arizona State Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan was undertaken, this process and its results will be discussed. Section 1204 of the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-646), provides opportunity for federal cost-share upon adoption of a state management plan. Methodology included gathering input towards reworking an early draft of the plan at a number of meetings, including the Lower Colorado Giant Salvinia Task Force, the Salvinia molesta National Convention, and Southwest Vegetation Management Association, and researching the format and process used in writing plans recently adopted in other states. Developments in management needs were incorporated, several of the plan's tasks were initiated and the plan was presented to agency members for comments and review. The resulting management plan is now ready to be signed into action, requiring approval by the state governor as a final step towards providing additional funds to fight ANS.