Overview
Per HB 865:“Invasive species" means a species that is not native to an ecosystem and whose introduction to the ecosystem causes or is likely to cause economic harm, environmental harm, or harm to human health. Humans, domestic livestock, and non-harmful exotic organisms are not invasive species."
The Texas Invasive Species Coordinating Committee (TISCC) was established by House Bill 865 in the 81st Legislature. Members of this committee include representatives from the following agencies; The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas Forest Service, and the Texas Water Development Board.
The committee is administratively attached to the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board. The committee meets 3-4 times per year in Austin. The goal of the committee is to collectively seek funding opportunities and to facilitate governmental efforts to prevent and manage statewide invasive species. There are opportunities for the creation of Sub-Committees and Advisory Groups under the TISCC.
Technical Resources
Texas Department of Agriculture- Noxious and Invasive Plant List of Texas
Texas Parks and Wildlife- Invasive, Prohibited and Exotic Species that are fish, shellfish and aquatic plants
Contact
For additional information or questions, contact John Foster, at 254-773-2250 ext. 235 or jfostertsswcb.texas.gov (jfoster[at]tsswcb[dot]texas[dot]gov).