117.2015 Memo of Understanding Aquatic Invasive Species RESOLUTION CALLING FOR THE STATE OF NEW YORK TO
INSTITUTE A NEW AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION
PROGRAM FOR THE ADIRONDACK REGION AND AUTHORIZING
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
RESOLUTION NO.: 117,2015
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.Anthony Metivier
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr. Doug Irish
WHEREAS, the Adirondack Region contains one of the largest natural and protected
assemblages of valuable and vulnerable waterways in North America that represents the region's
chief economic asset, and
WHEREAS, the most recent monitoring data indicates there are no less than 18 aquatic
invasive and non-native species within the Adirondack Park, which pose a threat to the ecological
and economic future of the Adirondacks, and
WHEREAS, the tourist industry is a vital part of the local economy through recreational
boating, fishing and camping and is largely dependent upon the region's clean water, and
WHEREAS, aquatic invasive species infestations pose a significant impact on the quality
of life of the community and local tax revenues, and
WHEREAS, millions of dollars have been spent on control, maintenance and management
of the known aquatic invasive species established in the Adirondacks, and
WHEREAS, trailered boats are an important vector for the overland transport of aquatic
invasive species from one waterbody to another and that investment in a spread prevention plan of
aquatic invasive species can be achieved at a fraction of the cost of management and control of
infestations, and
WHEREAS, interdiction and prevention have been found to be the best ways to contain
and control aquatic invasive species, as demonstrated in the nationally recognized prevention
program instituted on Lake George by the Lake George Park Commission requiring boat
inspection, and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
is developing regulations that will be effective statewide to assist in the efforts to minimize the
spread of aquatic invasive species, and
WHEREAS, Governor Cuomo has recognized the grave and immediate danger to the
waters of the Adirondacks by recommending $1 million in the 2015 proposed New York State
Budget to be allocated for an Adirondack wide invasive species prevention plan, and
WHEREAS, regional partnerships representing municipal governments, state agencies,
property owners, lake associations, conservation groups and businesses have formed in support of
such region-wide invasive species prevention plans and programs and are considering funding to
help implement such prevention plans, and
WHEREAS, a proposed Memorandum of Understanding supporting the institution of a new
program for Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention in the Adirondack Region is presented at this
meeting,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, to proactively prevent the introduction of new aquatic invasive species and
protect the water quality, public enjoyment and economic vitality of the Adirondack region, the
Queensbury Town Board hereby authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to sign the Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) supporting the institution of a new program for Aquatic Invasive Species
Prevention in the Adirondack Region substantially in the form presented at this meeting and to send a
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certified copy of this Resolution to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
and take such other and further action as may be necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution.
Duly adopted this 23rd day of March, 2015, by the following vote:
AYES Mr. Metivier, Mr. Irish, Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough
NOES None
ABSENT: Mr. Clements
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