A bipartisan law passed back in 2019 by Democrats and Republicans is still paying benefits for people all across Connecticut – and for the ponds, lakes and rivers that they swim, boat and fish in, too.
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced the latest round of town grants to help control the spread of aquatic invasive species: $400,000 to 12 towns in Connecticut stretching from Amston to Salisbury.
The AIS Grant Program is a major component of DEEP’s strategy to combat the threat of aquatic invasive species (AIS). This program funds projects proposed by municipalities, state agencies, and non-profit organizations to address the impacts of invasive plants and animals on inland water bodies in Connecticut. DEEP previously awarded approximately $1.5 million to 59 projects during the first four years of the AIS Grant Program.
Invasive species like hydrilla and zebra mussels are a serious threat to freshwater ecosystems and outdoor recreation, negatively impacting native plants and animals and often forming dense mats that can seriously hamper boating, fishing, and swimming. They’re also costly to eliminate.
Connecticut recognized the problem of invasive species on our lakes and streams in 2019 when it established an AIS Stamp and associated fee that applies to all registered boats using Connecticut waters. Public Act 19-190 created a dedicated funding stream through the $7 stamp for in-state vessels to fund education and remediation efforts around Connecticut. Of the 72 Republicans in the General Assembly that year, 60 voted “yes” on the new boat tax.
Among the recent grants announced last week is $27,553 for the Candlewood Lake Authority to educate boaters on aquatic invasives threatening Candlewood Lake.
Sen. Julie Kushner, D-Danbury, was the lead sponsor of the 2019 legislation. Kushner cited concerns about invasive species affecting outdoor recreation and home values on Candlewood Lake.
“We needed to address this invasive species problem,” Kushner said. “Candlewood Lake is a huge economic driver in western Connecticut as well as being a beautiful natural resource. I’m pleased that Republicans joined Democrats in creating a dedicated funding stream for a program that every city and town across Connecticut can take advantage of to keep its waters clean.”
