FTR News

Driggs, Idaho - (12/04/2008) - Driggs, ID – On Monday, December 8, as part of the popular Water Wise series, Teton Valley residents will begin preparing for an invasion by aliens that threaten economic and ecological harm to our region. Nationwide, impacts of these aliens have been estimated in the billions of dollars. These invaders spread rapidly, and can wreak havoc on agriculture, recreation, and hydropower, as well as on native fish and ecological communities. Rather than little green men in spaceships, these invaders are a group of animals, plants, and pathogens known as “aquatic nuisance species” (ANS). Though these organisms may be harmless in their native environment, without natural predators they can spread uncontrollably when introduced to new ecosystems. Not all non-native species cause problems. According to the Idaho Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, ANS are those particular non-native species that threaten the ecological stability of infested waters, and/or the agricultural or recreational activities dependent on those waters. The Teton Valley is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of ANS. Our agricultural economy depends on an irrigation system which is at risk of clogging by ANS such as zebra and quagga mussels. The annual cost to the US agricultural industry of zebra mussel infestation alone is close to a billion dollars. The incredible fishing and boating in the Teton Valley also increase our risk for ANS invasion. As recreationalists arrive with fishing gear, bait, and boats, they may unwittingly transport “hitchhiking” ANS. One such hitchhiker causes whirling disease in trout, and has caused serious recreational and economic loss where it has been introduced in Idaho and other Western States. Residential ponds can also be a source of ANS invasion. Eurasian watermilfoil is an attractive plant introduced by pond owners unaware of its potential for harm. It reproduces rapidly, sprouting roots from the tiniest broken piece, and forms dense mats of vegetation. Where it has been introduced in eastern Washington, it has caused economic disruption by interfering with power generation and clogging irrigation intakes. As of 2007, the Idaho Legislature had approved over $8 million in funding to control the spread of the plant. The good news is that Teton Valley residents can help prevent the spread of ANS in our region. Taking steps such thoroughly cleaning and drying all equipment and clothing in between contact with water sources, and never releasing any plants, fish, or animals from one water body into another can make a significant difference. And, according to the Western Regional Panel on ANS, one of the most important things you can do to help prevent the spread of ANS is to learn more about them. To that end, please attend the Water Wise presentation on Monday, December 8, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, in the Driggs Community Center. Presenter Thomas Woolf, Aquatic Plants Program Manager for the Idaho Department of Agriculture, will discuss the threats posed ANS, and help you understand what you can do to protect the Teton Valley’s water resources against these invaders. Light appetizers and an opportunity to socialize are provided during the first 30 minutes. Presentations begin promptly at 6:00. To learn more about the Water Wise Series, please contact FTR.