Aquatic Invasive Species in New Jersey: Ecology, Management, Monitoring, and Mitigation
Presented by:
Heather Desko, Senior Watershed Protection Specialist, New Jersey Water Supply Authority
Kyle Clonan, Watershed Protection Specialist, New Jersey Water Supply Authority
CEUs: .15
A rapidly growing number of invasive species lurk in aquatic habitats in New Jersey. Threats of new invaders are ever-present due to the abundance of aquatic recreation opportunities, including boating and fishing. Some aquatic invasive species in New Jersey include hydrilla, Eurasian watermilfoil, water chestnut, snakehead, blue catfish, and New Zealand mudsnail. This presentation will provide an introduction to aquatic invasive species in New Jersey, an overview of management options, including physical, chemical, and biological control options, and monitoring and mitigation techniques. The presentation will include a case study of boat inspection steward programs implemented in New Jersey in recent years.
Presenters:
Heather Desko is a Senior Watershed Protection Specialist for the New Jersey Water Supply Authority. She joined the Authority in 2009, after serving as an AmeriCorps NJ Watershed Ambassador. Heather manages the Authority’s water monitoring programs, aquatic invasive species and harmful algal bloom projects, and River-Friendly Business and School certification programs. She is a member of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS), the Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species, the New Jersey Water Monitoring Council, and is on the Board of Directors of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society (NEAPMS). Heather received both her BA in Environmental Science and MA in Energy and Environmental Analysis from Boston University.
Kyle Clonan is a Watershed Protection Specialist with the New Jersey Water Supply Authority—Watershed Protection Division. Kyle is involved with projects regarding the Authority's invasive species management program, cyanobacteria and water monitoring programs, environmental planning, and outreach efforts. He earned his B.S. in Environmental Science at Fordham University and is wrapping up his M.S. at Montclair State University. Kyle has previously worked with the Monmouth County Park System, the Delaware DNREC, and the Monmouth County Division of Planning.
Supporting Sponsor: EJG Sports, LLC (www.ejgsports.com)
