Background

As our global economy moves goods around the world at an increasing rate, the rate of species introductions can be expected to grow proportionately. Although the majority of introduced species will never become established populations, some will pose a great threat to native ecosystems and economies. Invasive species are one of the most important causes of the loss of biodiversity, second only to habitat destruction. Invasive species have also caused billions of dollars in damages across the United States on an annual basis. As unique ecosystems and major locations for recreation and commercial activity, the water bodies of Massachusetts are threatened by AIS.

To deal with this complex issue, CZM, along with the Massachusetts Bays Program, led the development of the AIS Management Plan in 2002 and continue to lead the Massachusetts AIS Working Group which is responsible for implementing the plan.

• Learn more about why AIS are a problem.

• Learn about and download the AIS Management Plan.

• View a summary of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) laws in Massachusetts (PDF, 88 KB) available to download from the Northeast Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel website.
  
  
• View the State of the Gulf of Maine Marine Invasive Species Report (PDF, 14 MB) available to download at the Gulf of Maine Council for the Marine Environment website.