The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is charged with regulating the importation and interstate transport of certain aquatic invasive species that have been determined to be injurious.

A committee has developed guidelines that would help to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species through the disposal of unwanted live educational specimens (animals, plants, and microorganisms) into local waters and municipal water systems including release into drains or flushing down toilets. An additional benefit to educators and students who follow these guidelines is to avoid possible violation of Federal, Tribal, and State laws that prohibit the transport or release of aquatic invasive species.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is gathering input on Classroom Guidelines for Preventing the Introduction and Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). The guidelines may be obtained online. Please send your written comments by July 16, to Laura_Norcutt@fws.gov. Responses to individual commenters will not be provided, but a summary of the comments received and how substantive comments were addressed in the final document will be available on this website.