Issue Position: Milfoil Control and Lake Advocacy

Issue Position

The impact and economics of AIS (milfoil) control and management.

I serve on the Exotic and Aquatic Weeds and Species Committee of the New Hampshire House of Representatives and we've heard compelling testimony and seen direct evidence of the damaging effects of milfoil infestations in New Hampshire lakes. Barrington is located in the "lakes region" of New Hampshire, and we have a vested interest in protecting these resources.

While the NH Department of Environmental Services Exotic Species Program is charged with managing this problem, it's now being assisted by the group Fair Funding for Invasives Control (FFIC) that was formed to focus on generating a stable source of state funding for milfoil control, public outreach and education and legislative efforts. The FFIC is a new coalition of lake associations, businesses, towns and individuals.

Between 2009 and 2012 $2.65 million was spent statewide on milfoil control activities to stay ahead of this infestation. Forty-eight percent of this total came from the state, 34% came from private sources and 18% came from municipal funds.

There are 78 NH water bodies infested with invasive species, 70 have variable milfoil, and 21 of the 70 milfoil infested water bodies are not currently managed by any lake association or municipal government. Studies have determined that a decline in water clarity and purity would cause $51 million in lost sales, $18 million in lost state revenue and 800 jobs. There would also be a 10 to 20% decrease in shorefront property values from invasive plant infestations.

I supported HB 292 the bi-partisan bill that increases funding to the NH Department of Environmental Services for fighting off the infestation, protecting pristine NH lakes, and insuring our property values, fishing and recreational opportunities remain strong.

The boating community expressed overwhelming support for this legislative initiative that will provide the NH DES Exotic Species program with $9.50 from each boat registration fee.

The FFIC is active in recruiting lake associations, conservation commissions, milfoil committees and milfoil contractors to help in this fight. It will turn to other supporters and colleagues including the Marine Trades Association, the NH DES, NH Lakes, and the NH Exotic Aquatic Weeds and Species Committee.

A significant effort will be made to deliver presentations, articles, OpEds, radio interviews, and talking points to coalition members.

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