Regulation and technology reducing Great Lakes invasive species

Scientists say new treaties and technologies are cutting down the number of new invasive species entering the Great Lakes, according to a report form water news site Circle of Blue. While there were 17 invasions from 1990 to 1999, there were only 5 in 2000 to 2009 and no new introductions since 2006.

Regulators and ship operators are working together to implement stricter standards to reduce invasions that can cost millions of dollars.

Many ocean-going ships have implemented management practices for ballast water, which can transport species from another region to the Great Lakes. New regulations curb ballast water flushing by requiring ships to exchange water far offshore. Additionally, new technologies are being implemented to kill potential invasives in ballast water.

Image: Great Lakes ship (Credit: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Great Lakes National Program