Congrats to Texas and thanks outside supporters for helping Texas with the current aquatic plant related issue. From what it says in the message below, it seems like Texas is backing off and foregoing any progress with issuing the white list.
Thank you for your recent letter regarding the proposed regulations of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) creating a “white list” for exotic aquatic plants. This provision, included in TPWD’s Sunset Bill, HB 3391, passed in the 2009 legislative session.
As you may know, in September 2010, I instructed TPWD to go beyond the statutory deadline established in HB 3391 to ensure that all outstanding questions concerning the proposed “white list” and rules were addressed. While I certainly think that a great deal of progress has been made, I am not confident that the arrived-upon proposal is enforceable or realistic for Texas. I don’t believe any of us understood the full scope and significant ramifications that adoption of a “white list” would present.
With the list and rules now complete, it is clear that approval of this measure would severely impact our state’s economy and the biofuel, nursery, and gardening industries throughout Texas. Therefore, I have called on TPWD to forego any further work and cease implementation of this effort. This request will be clarified in statute during the current legislative session. I feel this decision is in the best interest of the citizens of Texas.
I will continue working toward a common-sense solution to prevent the introduction of invasive plants into Texas while still protecting the environment and economy of Texas. While we can all agree that the last thing we want is another giant Salvinia to invade our lakes and waterways, the “white list” approach is just not practical. It is vital that we continue to make a proactive effort to ensure that the natural resources across this state are protected for generations to come.
Thank you again for contacting my office regarding this issue. Constituent input is a vital part of the legislative process. If I may be of assistance to you in the future regarding this or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me. As always, it is a pleasure to serve you.
Sincerely,
Glenn Hegar
Again, you can stay updated with the current news about this issue by visiting any of the links below.
- Video: New Rules For Backyard Water Gardens
- TPWD Aquatic Plant Ban: Where are we now? What should we do now?
- Texas Native Aquatic Plants List
- Texas Enacts White List – AGA Forward
- Dallas Forth Worth Aquatic Plant Club Discussion Forum
Keep up with the great work and never give up! Great victory!
