67 



Mr. Lee. Yes, sir very much so. We believe, over the information 

 that has been provided, that it would be nothing other than a very 

 burdensome load for us to continue to carry. 



Senator Akaka. Mr. McCleese? 



Mr. McCleese. Yes, we certainly agree to that. 



Senator Akaka. You have been wonderful with your responses. 

 If there are no more questions, let me bring the hearing to a close. 

 Today's hearing confirms the need for a more comprehensive na- 

 tional policy to guard against the introduction of harmful alien 

 pests. Invasive alien plants and animals cause great economic and 

 ecological harm to our country, as you have all agreed. The enor- 

 mous change to native ecosystems, as well as potential future im- 

 pacts, demands a thoughtftil, comprehensive approach from the 

 highest levels of government. 



Current Federal and State legislation is piecemeal, at best. De- 

 spite the efforts of numerous Federal and State agencies, invasive 

 non-indigenous species continue to enter and spread, causing eco- 

 nomic and environmental harm. 



We need to embark on a strategic plan, one that will unify the 

 efforts of Federal and State agencies, non-governmental organiza- 

 tions, agricultural interests and universities to combat these 

 threats on a common front. The Federal witnesses testifying today 

 have spoken of their efforts to improve cooperation and to coordi- 

 nate alien species initiatives. The steps they have taken are mean- 

 ingful. Given the magnitude of this problem, however, a giant leap 

 forward will be necessary if we are to achieve meaningful progress 

 against the endless tide of new pests. 



Congress and the administration must promote stronger inter- 

 agency coordination and cooperation at the State and Federal level. 

 From your statements, there are indications that you are doing just 

 that. Federal agencies should work creatively to solve jurisdictional 

 problems. Adequate fiinds should be provided for research, and to 

 fund the agencies that safeguard our natural resources. And we 

 must institute education programs that will enlighten the public 

 about our collective responsibility to prevent the introduction and 

 spread of alien species. New laws will be needed, priorities must 

 be rearranged, and the public must be educated about the dangers 

 of new infestations. 



I thank all the witnesses for their testimony and recommenda- 

 tions. We will have some questions for the record and I will appre- 

 ciate your cooperation in responding. 



Senator Akaka. The Committee will keep the record open for 30 

 days to receive additional written testimony. I also have some ma- 

 terial to be included in the record. ^ 



Senator Akaka. If there are no further questions or comments, 

 this concludes the hearing, and I conclude it v^dth much apprecia- 

 tion to all of you for your help to this Committee. 



The Committee stands in recess, subject to the call of the Chair. 



[Whereupon, at 4:05 p.m., the Committee was adjourned.] 



'Seepages 198-201. 



