§ 1454 - Transport of aquatic plants and aquatic nuisance species - Vermont Statutes

[Section 1454 effective July 1, 2010.]

§ 1454. Transport of aquatic plants and aquatic nuisance species

(a) No person shall transport an aquatic plant or aquatic plant part, zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis), or other aquatic nuisance species identified by the secretary by rule to or from any Vermont waters on the outside of a vehicle, boat, personal watercraft, trailer, or other equipment. This section shall not restrict proper harvesting or other control activities undertaken for the purpose of eliminating or controlling the growth or propagation of aquatic plants, zebra mussels, quagga mussels, or other aquatic nuisance species.

(b) The secretary may grant exceptions to persons to allow the transport of aquatic plants, zebra mussels, quagga mussels, or other aquatic nuisance species for scientific or educational purposes. When granting exceptions, the secretary shall take into consideration both the value of the scientific or educational purpose and the risk to Vermont surface waters posed by the transport and ultimate use of the specimens. A letter from the secretary authorizing the transport must accompany the specimens during transport. (Added 2009, No. 46, § 1, eff. July 1, 2010.)