Grant: Research Networks

Introduction and spread of invasive non-indigenous species (NIS) is recognized as one of the greatest threats toglobal biodiversity. Invasive NIS also cause up to $1.4 trillion annually in global damage and control costs. InCanada, the Great Lakes have sustained invasions by at least 185 NIS, while a further 112 and 76 NIS haveestablished on the east and west coasts, respectively. We are uncertain how many NIS exist in Arctic portsbecause surveys have never been completed. The Canadian government has been ramping up its capabilities onNIS in response to three critical reports by the Auditor General, however a number of critical gaps remain. TheNSERC Network on Aquatic Invasive Species (NAIS) will address these gaps by conducting a coordinated setof comprehensive studies directed at four research themes pertaining to aquatic NIS: i) early detectionstrategies; ii) rapid response strategies; iii) AIS as part of multiple stressors affecting aquatic ecosystems; andiv) reducing uncertainty in prediction and management. Our projects will be conducted in aquatic ecosystemsacross Canada, including the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and Strait of Georgia, St. Lawrence, St. Clair and RedRivers, Laurentian Great Lakes, mountain lakes in Alberta, and ports across the Canadian Arctic. Projects willbe conducted in conjunction with partners from the shipping industry, from federal and provincialgovernments, and NGO partners. NAIS will provide, for the first time, a comprehensive profile of aquatic NISestablished in waters spanning the entire country, and develop tools that can be used for early detection of andrapid response to invaders. We also will assist managers with critical decision making regarding if, when andwhere mitigation measures should be implemented to eradicate, control, or stop spread of aquatic AIS. Thenetwork will prepare Canada for commercial shipping through Arctic waters in conjunction with climatewarming. NAIS will train a large group of young Canadians to provide future leadership such that the numberof new NIS that establish in Canada is reduced. NAIS also will contribute to policy and educational reforms inCanada based upon review and analysis of on-going programs here and in countries world-wide.