What government agencies regulate invasive species?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Invasive species are managed through various programs and different regulatory agencies. At the federal level, USDA-APHIS directs the most significant program with inspectors stationed at over 350 ports across the United States. State Department of Natural Resources (DNRs) enforce local bans on invasive species, such as bans on aquatic plants. At the international level, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) sets the standards for ballast water management globally. Interagency collaboration among various levels of government helps mitigate ecological damage caused by invasive species.
USDA-APHIS
- Federal oversight: Manages quarantine and inspection programs
- Port operations: 350+ inspection points intercept contaminated shipments
- Regulations: Enforces Federal Noxious Weed Act and Lacey Act
- Data systems: Maintains Agricultural Quarantine Inspection database
State DNRs
- Local enforcement: Implements species-specific bans and restrictions
- Examples: Indiana's aquatic plant regulations, California's weed-free forage rules
- Response teams: Deploy rapid strike units for new invasions
- Public outreach: Volunteer removal programs across state parks
International Organizations
- IMO: Ballast Water Management Convention standards
- IPPC: International Plant Protection Convention phytosanitary rules
- CITES: Regulates cross-border wildlife trade
- Coordination: Global early warning systems for high-risk species
Please be aware that jurisdictional overlaps necessitate detailed coordination. The USDA-APHIS is responsible for regulating the interstate movement, while the states are responsible for managing their local ecosystems. During my experiences with Everglades restoration projects, I witnessed federally funded python removal operations that involved significant coordination between a federal agency (USDA-APHIS) and the state of Florida's FWC, which coordinated ground crews. Addressing management issues on multiple levels creates multiple efficiencies.
Systems for public reporting provide solutions to gaps in agency jurisdiction. EDDMapS allows reporting to the USDA, which then can be provided to state agency action teams. When I recently reported seeing Zebra Mussels on my personal paddles and recreational gear, I received two responses (from the federal agency and the Minnesota DNR) within 24 hours. Utilize public reporting systems and data reporting systems to coordinate state and federal systems for a much-needed national response.
Prevention depends on a series of rules. Federal regulations establish minimum requirements, allowing states to implement more restrictive laws. For example, Hawaii requires a decontamination of equipment beyond the USDA standard. To support these efforts, comply with and be respectful of the rules at each level of regulation, and report violations by contacting either federal or state authorities to help protect ecosystems.
Read the full article: Comprehensive Invasive Species List
