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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking applications from stakeholders who are interested in serving on a statewide Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Advisory Committee.

People who are concerned about aquatic invasive species and have the ability to commit to reviewing reports, preparing comments, and participating in six to eight meetings a year are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by Oct. 19.

DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr seeks to continue building strong relationships with AIS stakeholders (e.g., individuals, citizen organizations, local units of government) and use their insights and perspectives to help guide DNR AIS activities.

AIS are one of the state's most important natural resource issues. Preventing the spread of zebra mussels, Asian carp and Eurasian watermilfoil and other invasive plants and animals in lakes and streams is of critical importance, along with effective control of established invasive populations.

The DNR AIS Advisory Committee will be comprised of 15 stakeholders appointed by the commissioner. The first set of appointees will be asked to serve either a two- or three-year term in order to stagger appointments. Eventually, committee members will serve three-year terms.

Application questions reflect the DNR's desire to have a well-rounded AIS Advisory Committee. Members will have a range of personal and professional experiences with AIS issues, including prevention, decontamination, public awareness and control activities. Similarly, different parts of the state will be represented, as will a diversity of ages, genders, recreational interests and education. The committee also will reflect the range of private, nonprofit and public sector organizations that are actively engaged in AIS issues.



HOW TO APPLY

The DNR commissioner determines all appointments. Appointees may request mileage reimbursement, but they are not paid or eligible for per diem. They must abide by requirements pertaining to potential conflicts of interest. Advisory committee work can be a significant time commitment. Applicants should be prepared to make a two- to three-year commitment.

Applications will be accepted online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/ais-app. Data provided for the oversight committee application is classified as public data under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.

For more information, contact Ann Pierce at 651-259-5119 or [email protected], or Jim Japs, 651-259-5656 or [email protected].[[In-content Ad]]

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