| The 100th Meridian Initiative is a multi-state, multi-agency program designed to prevent or slow the westward expansion of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), especially the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha. It was implemented under the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 (P.L. 104--332). A major component of the Initiative is a large-scale recreational boater survey and inspection project conducted by agencies in states located along the 100th Meridian under administration of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The 1999 survey was carried out from April 1999 to April 2000. Survey components included boater interviews and inspections of accompanying watercraft; timed counts of trailered watercraft entering 100th Meridian Initiative states from the east; and counts and inspections of trailers at public launching areas of major lakes and reservoirs. Recommendations include modifying the survey to collect more specific data relating to boater movements, concentrations, and home lake usage, and using survey data to effectively target expanded ANS education and awareness activities. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
