TPWD Public Meeting on Adding Algae to Proposed List of Approved Exotic Aquatic Plants

Title: TPWD Public Meeting on Adding Algae to Proposed List of Approved Exotic Aquatic Plants
Location: Commission Hearing Room at TPWD headquarters, 4200 Smith School Road
Event Link: Click here
Description: AUSTIN – The use of algae for beneficial purposes such as the production of biofuels has recently received increased attention. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department wants to ensure the introduction of algae not normally found in Texas or surrounding waters will not harm the state’s natural resources.

In an effort to allow the use of some non-native algae while adhering to its mission of wildlife protection and conservation, TPWD will hold a public meeting to gather input regarding which non-native algae to consider for importation, possession, use and sale in Texas. The meeting is set for 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 29, in the Commission Hearing Room at TPWD headquarters, 4200 Smith School Road.

The Texas Legislature has directed TPWD to create a list of approved exotic aquatic plants, which includes algae, and that list must be finalized by the end of the year. The use of a list of approved plant species is a departure from the department’s present use of a list of prohibited species to restrict the importation and sale of certain non-native plants. No algae are on the current prohibited list.
Start Time: 13:30
Date: 2010-07-29