B.21. PENNSYLVANIA AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN 
B.21.1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PENNSYLVANIA’S PLAN 
The Pennsylvania Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Management Plan was written by the 
AIS Management Plan Committee (AISMPC) for the Pennsylvania Invasive Species Council 
(available at http://www.holstoncrisci.eom/Newsletter/docs/3/PAAISMP.pdf) . The goals of the 
Management Plan are to prevent and manage the introduction and spread of AIS to minimize 
negative impacts. Eight objectives to meet these goals include (1) providing leadership and 
coordination; (2) identifying and minimizing vectors of introductions; (3) detecting 
introductions; (4) developing early detection/rapid response; (5) monitoring existing AIS; (6) 
controlling and eradicating established AIS; (7) increasing AIS research; and (8) educating 
people about AIS issues. Objectives have related strategies and actions, which are prioritized. 
The Plan also includes evaluation and revision strategies and an implementation table. 
B.21.2. CLIMATE CHANGE AND AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES IN 
PENNSYLVANIA 
Projected increases in annual surface temperatures in the Northeastern region of the 
United States are projected to average 10°F (5.3°C) by 2070. Nearly all model simulations of 
future precipitation show consistent increases in winter precipitation and no change to a decrease 
in summer rainfall. By 2100, precipitation is projected to increase an average of 11 to 14% in 
the winter (Hayhoe et al., 2007). 
Warming air and water temperatures, water level fluctuations, and water chemistry 
changes could affect AIS establishment and spread. According to the Plan, hydrilla currently is 
found in three water bodies in Pennsylvania. As temperatures rise, recreation activities may 
become more widespread and prolonged, which may result in more introductions of hydrilla into 
other parts of the state. Hydrilla forms thick mats that can block intake pipes, which could 
hinder the provision of water. If climate change results in larger stream flows and altered water 
chemistry, the European rudd fish may out-compete native species as it is a hardy species that 
can survive in polluted waters. 
B.21.3. THE PENNSYLVANIA PLAN’S CURRENT INTEGRATION OF CLIMATE 
CHANGE 
Table B-20 summarizes how the Pennsylvania AIS Management Plan addresses and 
incorporates the projected effects of climate change. Although the Management Plan does not 
specifically address climate change, it has strong provisions for developing and conducting risk 
analyses to prevent introductions of AIS. 
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