Invasive Animals and Plants in Massachusetts Lakes and Rivers: Lessons for International Aquatic Management

There is a growing demand for appropriate management of aquatic invasive species in lakes and rivers worldwide. This book covers biology, invasion ecology, sightings, and control techniques of 4 invasive animals and 15 invasive plants in Massachusetts lakes and rivers. It provides valuable information on their biological characteristics and potential expansion pathways, as well as monitoring and management, including alternative management tools using updated biological, chemical, and mechanical methods. The book also includes the regulation of invasive species management to allow resource managers, biologists, practitioners, volunteers, and students a better understanding of compliance and enforcement with environmental law. An example of successful management is highlighted for each invasive species.

Invasive Animals and Plants in Massachusetts Lakes and Rivers is the first book to provide comprehensive and systematic coverage and illustrations for both freshwater invasive animals and plants. Although focussing on Massachusetts, it will provide readers with the bigger picture on multiple invasive species, from prevention, early detection, control, ecological restoration, to public education. Natural resource managers in Massachusetts and surrounding states will glean the detailed and valuable information they need to learn and use to prevent and manage freshwater invasive species in the field.

Dr. Wai Hing Wong (David) is an environmental analyst at Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, a Research Associate Professor in State University of New York at Oneonta, and an adjunct Associate Professor in Worcester State University. David’s interests and experience include environmental monitoring, biological invasions, risk assessment, eutrophication management, ecological restoration, and the Clean Water Act. He has over 20 years of experience in studying and managing aquatic invasive species in North America and Asia. He has a Ph.D. in Marine Ecology from City University of Hong Kong, and Master and Bachelor degree in Aquaculture/Fisheries from Ocean University of China. He is a principal investigator or co-investigator for over thirty projects funded by federal, state, and private entities. He is a reviewer for 29 scientific journals and 12 grant agencies. He has been a member of the federal Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force Research Subcommittee since 2012 and was the co-chair of Northeastern Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel from 2019 to 2020. Currently he is managing the following two Programs: 1) WM04 Chemical Application Program, and 2) 401 Water Quality Certification Program.