The Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force was established by Congress with the passage of the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act in 1990 and reauthorized with the passage of the National Invasive Species Act in 1996. Composed of 13 Federal and 13 ex-officio members, the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force works together, and with partners, to protect the waters of the United States by creating a coordinated, unified network that raises awareness and takes action to prevent and manage aquatic nuisance species.
Co-chaired by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force also works in conjunction with Regional Panelsand issue-specific subcommittees to coordinate its efforts among Federal and State agencies as well as efforts of the private sector and other North American interests.