Most species fare poorly when people introduce them to a new environment. However, some survive, and those that thrive and spread unchecked are called invasive species. They can push native species toward extinction, inflict terrible damage on habitats and ecosystems, and harm a wide variety of industries, including fisheries. Scientists estimate that about 7,000 invasive plant and animal species are now in existence in the U.S. Damage and control measures cost billions of dollars each year. Scientists now consider invasive species second only to habitat loss in factors contributing to imperilment of species native to the United States.

About the National Aquatic Invasive Species Act (NAISA):

The NAISA was introduced in Congress in April 2005. This bill focuses on preventing unintentional introductions of aquatic species into the waters of the U.S. Non-native species can damage local ecosystems and cause serious economic harm. If passed, NAISA would reauthorize and strengthen the National Invasive Species Act of 1996. It contains provisions to

• regulate ballast discharge from commercial ships;
• prevent invasive species introductions from non-U.S. pathways;
• support state invasive species management plans;
• screen live aquatic organisms when they enter the U.S. for the first time commercially;
• authorize rapid response funds for invasive emergencies;
• create invasive species education and outreach programs;
• conduct research on invasion pathways, and prevention and control technologies;
• authorize funds for state and regional invasive species grants;
• and strengthen specific invasive prevention efforts in the Great Lakes.

NAISA (S.770) was introduced this past spring in the Senate by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Carl Levin (D-MI), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). In the U.S. House of Representatives, Representatives Wayne Gilchrest (R-MD), Vernon Ehlers (R-MI), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), and Earl Blumenaur (D-OR) introduced complementary legislation.