I serve as the Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator for NYSDEC Region 7. In collaboration with multiple partners and stakeholders, we conduct surveys for early detection and rapid response of invasive species, manage, monitor, and control known infestations of high priority, and engage the public in education and outreach, as well as organize and participate in community invasive species control events. In short, our mission is to “conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment…” Our recent efforts have focused largely on hydrilla management, a particularly aggressive invasive, as well as water chestnut, a well established but troublesome invader.
