DRAFT Aquatic Invasive Species by FAA  Airmen Region

Species selected for the lists were chosen based on the best available information using a variety of invasive criteria. Considering the inconsistency in how state invasive species lists are populated, we used multiple sources to compile these lists, including federal and state prohibited species lists as well as species of concern identified in Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plans, where available, and state agency websites. We strove to ensure that each regional list represented a wide variety of organisms, from microscopic plankton and pathogens to larger plants and invertebrates. Additionally, we prioritized species that had undergone ecological risk summary screenings by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and were identified as high risk. Lastly, each of the selected species is present in the respective region but is not yet widespread, meaning seaplane pilots, by adopting Clean, Drain, Dry preventative measures, can help prevent their further spread and protect aquatic resources. For example, despite the ongoing concern about dreissenid mussels in the Great Lakes FAA region, we excluded them from that regional list due to their widespread presence, opting instead to focus on those lesser-known species in which seaplane pilots can play a key role in lessening their spread.