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Resolutions Adopted at the
67th Annual Conference of Mayors
New Orleans, Louisiana
June 11-15, 1999 |
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ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
SUPPORTING INCREASED FUNDING TO COMBAT INVASIVE
SPECIES
WHEREAS, the introduction and spread of invasive species, plants and animals
non-indigenous to the United States, is becoming a serious problem for many communities
across the country; and
WHEREAS, the total economic impact of invasive species on the U.S. economy is
estimated to be about $123 billion annually; and
WHEREAS, the environmental impact is as devastating as the economic loss. For
example, in Chicago, over 700 public and private trees were removed due to the infestation
of the Asian Longhorned Beetle. New York has lost over 2,800 trees from the same pest.
This invasive species has cost the federal, state, and local governments more than $5
million. These costs are expected to escalate as the beetle population spreads, resulting
in the loss of more trees which will need to be replaced; and
WHEREAS, aside from the Asian Longhorned Beetle infestations in Chicago and New
York, the Beetles have been sighted in 11 states at 26 separate locations; although they
are not established populations, these states are at risk for developing infestations.
While this is only one pest, it is indicative of the problems the nation is facing with
invasive species; and
WHEREAS, the Administration's budget for FY 2000, proposes an increase of more
than $28.8 million in funding to combat invasive species. This includes funding for
combating exotic pests and diseases, as well as accelerating research on
biologically-based integrated pest management practices and habitat restoration; and
WHEREAS, the detection and eradication efforts associated with the Asian
Longhorn Beetle in Chicago and New York are examples of the types of programs to be
supported through the Administration's proposal; and
WHEREAS, the President also signed Executive Order 13112 on February 3, 1999,
which establishes the Invasive Species Council. The Council will develop a federal
interagency strategy to prevent the introduction of invasive species and to restore native
species. The Council is tasked with preparing and presenting the National Invasive Species
Management Plan within 18 months after the issuance of the order,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors supports the
Administration's proposed $28.8 million increase in funding for FY 2000 to combat invasive
species which are negatively impacting many communities across the nation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors calls upon Congress to
appropriate the necessary funds for invasive species control in FY 2000; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors asks that the Council
considers input from local officials during the development and implementation of the
National Invasive Species Management Plan.
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