Invasive Species Centre hosts 18th international conference on Aquatic Invasive Species

OFAH FILE: 842
April 18, 2013

Invasive Species Centre hosts 18th International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species
Experts converge on Niagara Falls to share information and discuss future actions

From April 21 – 25, 2013, hundreds of participants from 26 countries will attend the 18th International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species (ICAIS) at the Sheraton-on-the-Falls Hotel, Niagara Falls, Ontario to share current information on aquatic invasive species. Invasive species are plants, animals and other organisms that are introduced to our waterways through human travel and trade. They can harm the economy, the environment, and our health.

Bob Lambe, Executive Director of the Invasive Species Centre (ISC), notes, “For almost two decades, ICAIS has been a major forum for sharing cutting-edge research and technology that shapes invasive species policy and management around the world. The ICAIS network of partners has been instrumental in environmental successes such as controlling the spread of invasives through ballast water. The Invasive Species Centre is thrilled to host ICAIS here, among the Great Lakes.”

“The introduction of aquatic invasive species into our waters is a major concern for governments, scientists, conservation organizations and fish and wildlife managers, both in North America and around the world,” said OFAH Executive Director Angelo Lombardo, and member of the Invasive Species Centre Board of Directors. “The OFAH recognized this threat as far back as 1992 and created the Invading Species Awareness Program, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, to address the need for enhanced public education and awareness of this growing problem. We are pleased that the ISC was able to bring this conference to Ontario, and we look forward to having the opportunity to share what we have learned, and hear from other agencies involved with invasive species.”

Included on the program will be experts speaking on the multi-faceted approach already underway to prevent Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes, which would devastate fish populations and undermine the multi-billion dollar recreational and commercial fisheries. The conference will also address shipping and ballast water, and species such as the bloody-red shrimp and zebra mussel. Conference details can be found at www.icais.org.

With 100,000 members, supporters and subscribers, and 710 member clubs, the OFAH is the largest conservation based organization in Ontario and the voice of anglers and hunters. For further information visit www.ofah.org or www.invadingspecies.com.

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