Bill > LD1661

This bill establishes the Maine Invasive Species Advisory Council (MISAC) and the Comprehensive Invasive Species Management Office to create a comprehensive, coordinated approach to managing invasive species across Maine. The council will consist of 20 members, including 8 representatives from state agencies and 12 appointed members representing various stakeholder groups such as fisheries, agriculture, municipal governments, forest industries, and environmental nonprofits. The council's key responsibilities include assessing the impacts of invasive species, developing a comprehensive management plan that covers all species taxa, identifying prevention and control strategies, providing input on funding priorities, organizing a biennial invasive species summit, and submitting strategic plans to the Legislature and Governor. The Comprehensive Invasive Species Management Office, located within the Governor's Office, will be staffed by a statewide coordinator who will help implement the council's directives and coordinate interagency efforts to prevent, manage, educate about, and address invasive species challenges. The bill emphasizes a proactive approach focused on prevention, early detection, rapid response, and collaborative management across different sectors and organizations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1661&snum=132