AK HB12

Establishes the Alaska Council on Invasive Species in the Department of Fish and Game to plan, coordinate, and control threats posed by invasive species to the state.

Council consists of 14 members including 5 state commissioners (ex officio), 1 soil and water conservation district member, and 8 appointed members representing conservation, agriculture, commercial fishing, shipping, University of Alaska, Native corporations, and the public.

Council must develop a comprehensive triennial strategic plan by September 15 addressing federal, state, local, public, and private invasive species control efforts, with annual progress reports to the governor and legislature by December 15.

Council members serving as private citizens receive no compensation; the commissioner may employ clerical staff; council meetings require a quorum of majority membership and meet at least annually.

All provisions sunset December 31, 2020; initial strategic plan deadline extended to September 15, 2011, with initial member terms staggered by the commissioner of fish and game.