Oregon—Oregon’s clean water, wildlife habitats, and economy are threatened by invasive species—harmful organisms that are introduced into Oregon and are particularly adept at surviving and reproducing in their new environment. Difficult to control and eradicate, their presence can lead to economic and environmental harm. One study estimated the cost of invasives is more than $140 billion a year nationally. The Council is comprised of representatives from seven state agencies: Oregon Department of Agriculture, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon State University (Sea Grant), Portland State University (Center for Lakes and Reservoirs), Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State Marine Board, and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. Nine at-large members are appointed by the agency representatives. Council members are drawn from government agencies, universities, industries, organizations, and individuals with an interest and expertise in some aspect of invasive species management. Five of the at-large member seats will be open at the end of December. The Oregon Invasive Species Council is seeking nominations for these open seats. Nominations and questions about the process should be directed to OISC Coordinator Carolyn Devine at c.m.devine@comcast.net. Please include the individual’s name, title, phone, fax, e-mail, and mailing address as well as a brief description of their qualifications (self nominations are acceptable). In addition, the Council requests a statement from the person being nominated that explains their interest and contributions they are willing to make to the Council. Letters of support for the nominee are helpful. The deadline for nominations is January 10, 2014. The council will welcome the new appointees at the February 24-25, 2014 meeting in Portland.
