(1) It is the policy of the State of Vermont that the water resources of the State shall be protected, regulated, and where necessary controlled under the authority of the State in the public interest to promote the general welfare and to protect public health and the environment.

(2) It is the policy of the State of Vermont to prevent the infestation and proliferation of invasive species in the State that result in negative environmental impacts, including habitat loss and a reduction in native biodiversity along with adverse social and economic impacts and impacts to the public health and safety.

(3) The Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation have established an informal working group to address invasive and noxious weeds, but additional authority is necessary for the Agency of Natural Resources to adequately respond to invasive aquatic nuisance species.

(4) The ability to initiate quickly a response to contain and control a new aquatic species introduction before it can spread is critical to reduce future management costs and protect the integrity of Vermont's ecosystems.

(5) Infestations of new aquatic species must be detected early and acted upon swiftly to minimize economic, social, and ecological impacts as well as to increase the probability of a successful eradication effort. (Added 2009, No. 46, § 1, eff. July 1, 2010.)