National Invasive Species Council

Definition

The National Invasive Species Council (NISC) is a U.S. governmental body established to coordinate and enhance the federal government's efforts in preventing, detecting, and controlling invasive species. It aims to develop a comprehensive national strategy that unifies the actions of various federal agencies and partners to mitigate the impacts of invasive species on ecosystems, economy, and human health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. NISC was established in 1999 through Executive Order 13112 to address the growing concerns about invasive species across the United States.
2. The council consists of representatives from multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Interior, and Defense, among others.
3. NISC plays a key role in implementing the National Invasive Species Management Plan, which outlines specific strategies for prevention, control, and restoration efforts.
4. The council also collaborates with state governments, tribes, and non-governmental organizations to improve coordination and communication in invasive species management.
5. Through education and outreach programs, NISC works to raise public awareness about the threats posed by invasive species and promotes practices that prevent their spread.

Review Questions

• How does the National Invasive Species Council facilitate coordination among different federal agencies regarding invasive species management?
  • The National Invasive Species Council facilitates coordination by bringing together representatives from various federal agencies to collaborate on a unified strategy for managing invasive species. This collaboration allows for sharing resources, expertise, and data which enhances overall effectiveness in addressing the issue. By developing a cohesive national plan, NISC ensures that efforts are not duplicated and that all agencies work toward common goals in preventing and controlling invasive species.
• Discuss the importance of the National Invasive Species Management Plan as developed by NISC and its implications for biosecurity efforts.
  • The National Invasive Species Management Plan is crucial as it sets forth a strategic framework that guides federal actions in combating invasive species. By outlining specific objectives and methods for prevention, control, and restoration, it strengthens biosecurity efforts across the nation. The plan encourages inter-agency collaboration and integrates best practices that not only protect native ecosystems but also mitigate economic impacts associated with invasives, ultimately promoting resilience within affected communities.
• Evaluate the role of public awareness campaigns promoted by NISC in combating the spread of invasive species and how they contribute to overall management strategies.
  • Public awareness campaigns promoted by NISC play a vital role in combating the spread of invasive species by educating communities about the risks associated with them. These initiatives encourage individuals to adopt practices that prevent invasives from entering new environments, such as cleaning hiking gear or not releasing pets into the wild. By fostering community involvement and responsibility, these campaigns significantly contribute to overall management strategies by creating an informed public that actively participates in protecting local ecosystems from the threats posed by invasive species.

Related terms

Invasive Species: Species that are non-native to a specific ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm.

Biosecurity: Measures taken to protect against the entry and spread of harmful organisms, including invasive species, which can pose risks to biodiversity and human health.

Federal Invasive Species Management Plan: A plan developed by federal agencies outlining strategies for managing invasive species and their impacts across different landscapes.