A national online survey of seaplane pilots has launched, with the results of the survey used to develop tools and recommendations to reduce the risk of seaplanes spreading aquatic invasive species.
Aquatic invasive species harm the environment, economy, and public health, outcompete native plants and wildlife, spread diseases, and damage infrastructure, according to officials.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is funding the project to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species by seaplanes.
Phase II of the four-phase project includes a national survey of seaplane pilots.
Once the survey results are compiled, pilot and flight instructor focus groups will be convened to discuss and refine tools and information to lessen the spread of aquatic invasive species by seaplanes.
This 26-question survey is estimated to take 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Results of the survey will be shared in a compiled format — no personally identifying information will be made available or linked to any responses, according to officials.
The survey, which closes on May 31, 2024, is available at Form.jotform.com/createstrat/Seaplane-Pilot-Survey.
Four organizations are implementing the seaplane-aquatic invasive species project for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Creative Resource Strategies, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, National Sea Grant Law Center, and Conservation Collaborations.
For more information about the project, go to Seaplanesandais.com
Any questions about the survey can be directed to [email protected].