2:30 pm, Dept. of Agriculture Conference Room G8-AHartford, CT
Council members present: Theodore Andreadis, William Hyatt, Paul Larson, Richard McAvoy, Tom McGowan, John Silander, Katherine Winslow
Others present: Donna Ellis, Nelson DeBarros
McAvoy called the meeting to order at 2:37pm.
Approval of Meeting Minutes
The meeting minutes from December 8, 2015 were distributed and reviewed. T. Andreadis moved (second: P. Larson) to approve as distributed. Motion Carried.
Legislative update – R. McAvoy reported that D. Sutherland has not yet been able to set a meeting with the Environment Committee. D. Sutherland indicated by email that funding for the coordinator position was unlikely due to the state budget situation. T. McGowan noted that the responsibilities of the Invasive Plants Council as enumerated in statute cannot be discharged without the support of a coordinator. D Ellis indicated that a proposal for a summer intern may be able to temporarily contribute to maintaining some of the lost capacity in the absence of a coordinator. While this help is welcomed, it was noted that the main contribution would be in the area of literature-based research on the spread of invasive species via the transfer of topsoil, fill or compost, and some limited support activities.
The committee discussed strategies to consider in the absence of IPC Coordinator support. Meetings with the Appropriations Committee, Co-chairs of the Environment Committee, and supportive legislators were proposed. A PowerPoint presentation developed by W. Hyatt was distributed for council feedback.
Other old Business: W. Hyatt discussed the rapid response plan for Hydrilla in Coventry Lake. A company was contracted to survey and manage Hydrilla, which is in well-defined small patches in a cove off of the lake. The area will be treated and re-surveyed several times during 2016 and early 2017. Funding was provided via CT DEEP Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs).
W. Hyatt reported that the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) grants to municipalities program is continuing, with $121,000 available for aquatic invasive management projects.
New Business:
Announcements: D. Ellis announced the 8th biennial Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group (CIPWG) symposium, which will be held on October 11, 2016 at the UConn Storrs campus.