Montana Lawmakers Consider New Ways To Protect Against Aquatic Invasive Species

A prolific alien organism is closing in on Montana's ecosystem and could have dire consequences for food production, outdoor recreation and the economy if it crosses the state's borders.

Aquatic invasive species have widely infected the Midwest and are continuing to spread.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and state lawmakers are racing to protect the state from all invasive species, but aquatic species like quagga and zebra mussels in particular. Proposals include allowing counties to implement new taxes, creating a new fee for boat owners and establishing new boat inspection requirement.

It'...