RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES NEEDS ASSESSMENT. Prepared by: Cristina Bourassa, Aquatic Invasive Species Intern

Transcription

1 RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES NEEDS ASSESSMENT Prepared by: Cristina Bourassa, Aquatic Invasive Species Intern 1

2 Executive Summary The Narragansett Bay Research Reserve (Reserve) Coastal Training Program (CTP) is involved with implementing some of the outreach and education objectives outlined in the Rhode Island Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan (RIAIS Plan). The CTP conducted a needs assessment to help guide these activities; below are some findings of this research. The majority of respondents were recreational fishers at 39.7%. Other respondents included: the charter and party boat industry at 9.6%; recreational boaters at 8.2%; commercial fishers and seafood industries at 6.8%; the aquaculture industry at 5.5%; water garden and nursery businesses at 4.1%; SCUBA divers at 1.4%; the bait trade at 1.4%; and other at 16.4%. Many of the respondents belong to multiple stakeholder groups. Many of the respondents are already aware of aquatic invasive species (AIS) issues in Rhode Island. Aquaculturists are already highly informed about AIS and are interested in AIS topics. The respondents, with the exception of those in the maritime transportation industry, could benefit from further AIS education and training. Generally, the respondents do not want to spend a lot of time at training sessions and workshops; shorter sessions are more desirable. There was a strong preference for electronic and web-based communications and materials. Some groups would utilize field exercises. The respondents reported that information on the following AIS topics would be the most useful: 1) AIS identification; 2) preventing the introduction and spread of AIS; 3) the environmental impacts of AIS; 4) an overview of AIS in Rhode Island; and 5) reporting methods. 50.0% of the respondents would find more information on vessel fouling to be very useful, and 63.3% of the respondents would find more information on the roles of the bait trade and recreational fishing and boating in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS to be very useful. The majority of respondents prefer that trainings take place on weekday evenings or Saturday mornings in the winter or summer seasons. The best ways to inform stakeholders of training opportunities and other information are through: 1) workshop-specific announcements; 2) electronic newsletters/e-briefs from various organizations; and 3) websites. 27.4% of the respondents are interested in connecting with relevant organizations to coordinate AIS-related activities. They are looking for: 1) AIS specialists; 2) training and outreach coordination; 3) expert speakers; 4) coordinated planning for AIS-related activities through something such as an electronic forum or listserve; and 5) research platforms such as vessels. Respondents from both the charter/party boat industry and the bait trade indicated interest in coordinating research platforms. 2

3 Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY....2 INTRODUCTION...4 METHODOLOGY...5 FINDINGS Overall Respondent Group...6 Primary Stakeholder Groups..14 Recreational Fishers...14 Recreational Boaters..20 SCUBA Divers...27 Bait Trade...34 Aquaculturists 40 Commercial Fishing/Shipping Industry.46 Aquarium/Pet Shop Trade..53 Secondary Stakeholder Groups..54 Charter/Party Boat Industry...54 Nursery/Water Garden Trade.57 Maritime Transportation Industry.. 59 CONCLUSION...60 APPENDICES Appendix A: Invitation Letter to Complete Survey Appendix B: Web-based Survey 3

4 Introduction The rate of known aquatic species that have been introduced into United States waters has increased exponentially for centuries. While some species introductions are considered to have caused no known impacts, others are considered to be invasive. Invasive species are defined as any introduced species that can or do cause significant harm to the environment, economy, or human health. On November 7, 2007 the Rhode Island Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan (RIAIS Plan) was approved by the Federal Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force. The Narragansett Bay Research Reserve (Reserve) Coastal Training Program (CTP) has been tasked with implementing outreach and education objectives 1E, 3A, and 3C of the RIAIS Plan, primarily focusing on marine and estuarine environments. The tasks are outlined in the RIAIS Plan as follows: 1E. Maintain outreach/communication with stakeholder groups via seminars, list serves, websites, and other means. 3A. Build/maintain understanding of RIAIS Plan in pet/nursery/aquaculture trades. 3C. Educate public on dangers of releasing non-natives into local waters. The Reserve CTP created and administered a needs assessment to relevant stakeholders, including priority groups identified in the RIAIS Plan and others whose feedback was determined to be valuable. Priority stakeholder groups include recreational fishers and boaters, SCUBA divers, the bait trade, the aquaculture industry, the commercial fishing/seafood industry, and the aquarium/pet shop trade. Secondary stakeholder groups include the charter/party boat industry, the maritime transportation industry, and the nursery/water garden trade 1. Key objectives of the needs assessment are to: 1) determine the level of basic AIS knowledge within each stakeholder group; 2) identify AIS topics on which stakeholders would like further information and training; 3) identify the stakeholders preferred delivery formats; 4) identify the timing that would be most convenient for the stakeholders to attend trainings; and 5) determine whether or not potential partnerships for sharing resources to promote AIS awareness exist. This document presents: 1) the methodology used to collect the data from stakeholder groups; 2) an analysis of the 73 survey respondents as one overall group; 3) the analyses of ten distinct stakeholder groups the aquaculture industry, recreational boating, the bait industry, recreational fishing, commercial fishing and the seafood industry, the aquarium and pet shop trade, the nursery and water garden trade, SCUBA divers, and the charter and party boat industry; and 4) recommendations for providing accessible and effective education, outreach, and training to stakeholders so that they may be engaged in helping to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, thus instilling a sense of personal responsibly and initiating steps toward best management practices for each industry. Analyses and recommendations from this needs assessment will primarily focus on identifying the specific topic(s) on which each stakeholder group would like to receive information and in what format(s). Additional findings that do not directly relate to immediate training efforts will be mentioned and brief recommendations will be made. 1 The nursery/water garden trade is listed in the RIAIS Plan as a priority stakeholder group; however for the purposes of this needs assessment will be treated as a secondary stakeholder group. Training objectives for this group will be addressed at a later date to coordinate efforts and consider intersections with freshwater trades. 4

5 Methodology Needs assessment activities proceeded in the following sequence: 1) Planning: One way the project team prepared for the needs assessment was by completing an online, selfguided course entitled Conducting Needs Assessments through NOAA s Coastal Services Center (CSC). Additionally, a variety of needs assessments, both within and outside of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS), were reviewed; these included: An Analysis of End User Preferences for Climate Change-Related Information and Data by the Jacques Cousteau NERR; Land Manager Needs Assessment by the Midwest Invasive Plant Network; Coastal Training Program Wetlands Restoration Community Needs Assessment by the San Francisco Bay NERR; and Bait Business Survey by the University of Wisconsin- Madison. Many other institutions such as the Adirondack Invasive Plant Program, Invasive Species Action Network (formerly the Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species), Connecticut Sea Grant, and Sailors for the Sea of Newport, Rhode Island were contacted to inquire about their approaches and lessons learned from the beginning to the end of the process. 2) Survey Development: The first step in developing the survey was to identify questions to be answered by the stakeholder groups. The team then compared the draft survey with other surveys including some of those mentioned above in addition to Connecticut Sea Grant s Curbing Invasion Pathways through Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness and the Reserve s Land Managers' Needs Assessment to confirm value in the approach. Based on this information, the project team developed a 28-question survey to help identify the preferred topics and issues related to AIS in Rhode Island on which more information would be useful to stakeholders, how they would like to receive this information, and if there are any groups open to discussing partnership opportunities. The project team received input on the draft needs assessment from the members of the RIAIS Working Group as well as significant guidance from the Coastal Resources Management Council s Planning and Procedures Aquaculture Division. Additionally, guidance on the pilot survey was provided by a CSC social scientist. 3) Pre-test Survey: Once the survey was designed, the project team sent an electronic version of the survey to nine evaluators from various stakeholder groups to test the length and question content. Evaluators represented the following stakeholder groups: recreational boating, recreational fishing, SCUBA diving, aquaculture, commercial fishing, and the charter and party boat industry. Each survey evaluator was also asked to answer ten prompt questions to provide additional feedback. Revisions were made based on these responses as well as advice provided by CSC. 4) Survey Execution: A total of 232 surveys were sent by mail and during the week of October 24, Most recipients were given three weeks to complete and return the survey. 167 paper surveys were mailed via the U.S. Postal Service with a cover letter (Appendix A), the 28-question survey (Appendix B), and a business reply self-addressed stamped envelope. Additionally, bait businesses received cards with a link to the survey to make available to their customers. 65 individuals received an with a link to the electronic version of the 28-question survey, created through and were encouraged to forward the to others in their stakeholder group. A link to the electronic survey was also available on the Rhode Island Marine and Estuarine Invasive Species website ( The project team made four appearances at meetings and events to introduce the survey and encourage or remind participants to complete it. Events included a Narrow River Preservation Association Board of Directors meeting, the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers monthly meeting, the Woonasquatucket Paddle for the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, and a Save the Lakes Board meeting. 5) Data Analysis and Reporting: The survey was closed on November 14, 2011 with a total of 73 completed surveys (31.5% response rate). 29 of the surveys were completed by recreational fishers, seven from the charter and party boat industry, six from recreational boaters, five from the commercial fishing and seafood industry, 5

6 four from the aquaculture industry, three from the water garden and nursery business, one from a SCUBA diver, and one from a bait business owner. No one from the aquarium and pet trade completed the survey. 60 of those who responded used the web-based survey, while the remaining 13 were mailed back. Analyses and recommendations from this needs assessment will primarily focus on identifying the specific topic(s) on which each stakeholder group would like to receive more information and in what format(s). Additional findings that do not directly relate to immediate training efforts will be mentioned and brief recommendations will be made. FINDINGS The Overall Respondent Group The 73 completed survey responses represent primary and secondary stakeholder groups. Primary stakeholder groups include: recreational fishers (39.7%); the charter and party boat industry (9.6%); recreational boaters (8.2%); commercial fishers and seafood industries (6.8%); the aquaculture industry (5.5%); water garden and nursery businesses (4.1%); SCUBA divers (1.4%); the bait trade (1.4%); and other (16.4%). Answers to other include: Wholesale Seafood Distributor, Narrow River Preservation Association, Retail Seafood Store, Save the Lakes, Bait Trade and Recreational Fisher, Watershed Environmental Group, Conservation organization, Watershed group researcher, Fishing Lure Manufacturer, and environmental organization. No one identified their primary stakeholder affiliation with the aquarium and pet shop trade (Figure 1). Stakeholders were asked to indicate other (secondary) stakeholder groups to which they considered themselves affiliated. This resulted in a wider representation of stakeholders: recreational fishers (31.5%), recreational boaters (30.1%), commercial fishers and seafood industries (20.5%), SCUBA divers (19.2%), the bait trade (6.8%), the charter and party boat industry (4.1%), water garden and nursery businesses (4.1%), the aquaculture industry (2.7%), the aquarium and pet shop trade (1.4%), and other (6.9%). Answers to other include: [Rhode Island] Rivers Council, paddling group, RICKA, Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association, and fishing club (Figure 2). Figure 1: Respondents primary stakeholder groups Survey question: Please indicate the PRIMARY stakeholder group to which you belong. (95.9% response rate) Primary Stakeholder Groups 6

7 Secondary Stakeholder Groups Figure 2. Respondents secondary stakeholder groups Survey question: Are there any other stakeholder groups to which you consider yourself affiliated? (Please check all that apply) (79.5% response rate) 67.2% of the respondents said that they could benefit from further AIS education and training, 16.4% said that they would not benefit from further AIS education and training, and 16.4% were unsure (Figure 3). Six of the respondents skipped this question. Any of the respondents who indicated that they would not benefit from further AIS education and training were directed to answer only basic AIS knowledge questions and not those related to training. Some of the respondents who used hard-copy surveys answered these questions; however they were not included in the analysis. Figure 3. Respondents interest in AIS education and training Survey question: Do you feel that you could benefit from further AIS education or training? (By choosing "No" you will not be prompted to answer any questions about training information and accessibility and will be directed to answer questions about Basic AIS Knowledge) (91.8% response rate) Respondents Interest in AIS Education and Training 25.9% of the respondents neither strongly agreed nor disagreed about the importance of their stakeholder group s role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS (Figure 4). Respondents Agreement on the Importance of Their Role Related to AIS Figure 4. Respondents agreement on the importance of their role related to AIS Survey question: Thinking about the role of your stakeholder group, how much do you agree or disagree with the following statement? My stakeholder group can play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS (79.5% response rate) 7

8 General AIS Existing Knowledge 66.7 % of the respondents said that they are very familiar with the definition of native species as provided and 55.0% are very familiar with the definition of invasive species as provided (Figure 5). On a scale of 1 ( haven t heard anything ) to 5 ( have heard a lot ), 36.7% of the respondents said that they have heard about AIS (Figure 6). 35.0% are very aware of the issues caused by AIS (Figure 7). The survey team wanted to know the specific issues of which stakeholders are most aware. The respondents are most aware of the loss of native species habitat (91.1%) and of the decrease in or elimination of species (87.5%). The respondents are least familiar with threats to the water-dependent business and recreational sectors (51.8%) (Figure 8). Figure 5. Respondents familiarity with species definitions Survey question: How familiar are you with these definitions? (82.2% response rate) Respondents Familiarity with Species Definitions Amount Respondents Have Heard About AIS Figure 6. The amount respondents have heard about AIS Survey question: How much have you heard about AIS? (82.2% response rate) 8

9 Figure 7. Respondents general awareness of AIS issues Survey question: How aware are you of the issues caused by AIS?(82.2% response rate) Respondents General Awareness of AIS Issues Respondents Awareness of Major AIS Issues Figure 8. Respondents awareness of major AIS issues Survey question: What are the major issues you are aware of that are caused by invasive species? (Check all that apply) (76.7% response rate) 33.3% of the respondents are aware of the Zebra Mussel (69.9% response rate). In response to the question From your understanding of AIS, what are two species you hear about most often as being invasive?, 43.1% of the respondents said that they have heard of the Asian Shore Crab. Of the 22 times that the Asian Shore Crab was listed, it appeared as Asian crab 15 times. Though this was counted as Asian Shore Crab, it is unclear if these respondents think that all invasive crabs are Asian or if they meant the Asian Shore Crab. Respondents Perception of the Rate of Spread of AIS 29.3% of the respondents do not know how fast or slow AIS can spread (Figure 9) % said that AIS in Rhode Island spread fast. Figure 9. Respondents perception of the rate of spread of AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how would you assess the rate of spread of AIS in RI? (79.4% response rate) 36.2% of the respondents perceive the threat of AIS to the environmental wellbeing of 9

10 Respondents Perception of the Threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Narragansett Bay as being very serious (Figure 10). 31.0% of the respondents said that they hav e little knowledge o f policies and laws regarding AIS (Figure 11). Figure 10. Respondents perception of the threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Survey question: In your opinion, how serious a threat are AIS to the overall environmental wellbeing of Narragansett Bay? (79.4% response rate) Respondents Knowledge of AIS Policies and Laws Figure 11. Respondents knowledge of policies and laws regarding AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how knowledgeable do you think you are about policies and laws regarding AIS in the state of Rhode Island? (79.4% response rate) Stakeholders working in retail or wholesale were asked to gauge their customers knowledge of the introduction and spread of invasive species. 15.4% of these respondents believe customers are not knowledgeable at all or have little knowledge (Figure 12). This question did not apply to 55.8% of the respondents. Respondents Perception of Customers AIS Knowledge Figure 12. Respondents perception of customers knowledge about AIS Survey question: If you work in retail or wholesale, how knowledgeable do you think that your customers are about the introduction and spread of invasive species in RI? (71.2% response rate) 10

11 Respondents Interests The survey respondents indicated that i nformation on the following AIS topics would be most useful to them: 1) AIS identification (75.0%); 2) prevention of the introduction and spread of AIS (68.0%); and 3) environmental impacts of AIS (66.7%) (Figure 13). Figure 13. Respondents general AIS topic priorities Survey question: To help us plan future training programs and other outreach events, please indicate how useful information on the following general AIS topics would be to you given your affiliation. (68.5% response rate) Respondents General AIS Topic Priorities 22.0% of the respondents said that more information on the nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade s role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would not be useful at all. 30.0% said that information on native alternatives to invasive and potentially invasive species used in water gardens and aquariums would be very useful (Figure 14). Usefulness of Information on Nursery/Water Garden/Aquarium/Pet Shop Topics to Respondents Figure 14. Usefulness of information on nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics to respondents Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics be to you? (68.5% response rate) 32.0% of the respondents said that more information on vessel fouling and the role of commercial fishing and maritime transportation in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be very useful. 30.0% said that more information on the issue of ballast water and the role of commercial fishing and maritime transportation in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be very useful (Figure 15). 11

12 Figure 15. Usefulness of information on commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics to respondents Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics be to you? (68.5% response rate) Usefulness of Commercial Fishing/Maritime Transportation Topics to Respondents 50.0% of the respondents said that more information on the issue of vessel fouling and the role of recreational fishing and boating in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be very useful. 63.3% said that more information on the role of the bait trade in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be very useful (Figure 16). Usefulness of Information on Recreational Fishing/Boating Topics to Respondents Figure 16. Usefulness of information on recreational fishing and boating topics to respondents Survey question: How useful would information on the following recreational fishing and boating topics be to you? (67.1% response rate) Preferred Delivery Formats The preferred formats for delivering information on the AIS topics listed above include: 1) education programs that are delivered electronically (57.4%); 2) website information (53.2%); 3) printed material (50.0%); 4) demonstrations (40.4%); 5) workshops with a hands-on component (38.3%); 6) informational workshops (32.6%); and 7) field exercises/site visits (ranked about the same at 33.3%) (Figure 17). Figure 17. Respondents preferred formats for receiving AIS information Survey Question: Please rank how likely you are to make use of information offered in each of the following formats. (65.8% response rate) Respondents Preferred Formats It is preferred that training programs are held in winter (70.2%) on weekday evenings (21.7%) or Saturday mornings (20.0%) (Figure 18). 12

13 Respondents Preferred Times for Programs Figure 18: Respondents preferred times for programs Survey question: Please indicate how convenient it is for you to attend a program at the following times. (65.8% response rate) Morning or afternoon programs are preferred on Tuesdays (56.0%) or Mondays (52.0%). The respondents said that weeknight programs would be most convenient on Tuesdays at 6:00 PM (47.2%) and Tuesdays at 6:00 PM with a light meal (50.0%) (Figure 19). Figure 19. Respondents preferences for weeknight programs Survey question: If weeknight programs (~1-3 hours in length) work the best for you, please indicate which of the following days and times are the most convenient (49.3% response rate) Preferred Days and Times for Weeknight Programs The respondents indicated that they would like Monday to learn about workshop and training opportunities through: 1) workshop-specific announcements (59.6%); 2) electronic newsletters or e-briefs from various organizations (52.2%); and 3) websites (41.9%). Answers in the other category included: handouts ; RISAA (Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association) seminar presentation ; and the more electronic information the better. Save the trees, we all have access to computers (Figure 20). 6:30pm 5:30pm (with light meal) 4:30pm (with light meal) Wednesday 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% Respondents Preferred Mechanisms for Receiving Training Announcements Figure 20. Respondents preferred mechanisms for receiving training announcements Survey question: How useful do you find each of the following methods of receiving announcements about workshop/training opportunities? (64.4% response rate) 13

14 P rimary Stakeholders Recreational Fishers Rhode Island s recreational fishers are listed in the RIAIS Plan as a priority stakeholder group to receive specialized training in AIS. The survey was introduced and circulated to attendees of the October 2011 Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers meeting; copies for absent members were also provided to the group. Recreational fishers were the highest responding stakeholder group. 57.1% of the respondents said that they are interested in receiving further AIS education and training (Figure 21). 27% said that they don t play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS, while 13.6% strongly agree that they do play an important role (Figure 22). Figure 21. Recreational fishers interest in AIS education and training Survey question: Do you feel that you could benefit from further AIS education or training? (By choosing "No" you will not be prompted to answer any questions about training information and accessibility and will be directed to answer questions about Basic AIS Knowledge) (96.6% response rate) Figure 22. Recreational fishers agreement on the importance of their role related to AIS Survey question: Thinking about the role of your stakeholder group, how much do you agree or disagree with the following statement? My stakeholder group can play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS (75.9% response rate) Recreational Fishers Agreement on the Importance of Their Role Related to AIS Recreational Fishers Interest in AIS Education and Training General AIS Existing Knowledge 52.2% of the respondents said that they are very familiar with the definition of native species as provided and 54.5% are very familiar with the definition of invasive species as provided (Figure 23). On a scale of 1 ( haven t heard anything ) to 5 ( have heard a lot ), 43.5% of them have heard little about AIS (Figure 24). 39.1% of the respondents said that they are not very aware of the issues caused by AIS (Figure 25). 14

15 Figure 23: Recreational fishers familiarity with species definitions Survey question: How familiar are you with these definitions? (79.3% response rate) Recreational Fishers Familiarity with Species Definitions Amount Recreational Fishers Have Heard About AIS Figure 24. The amount recreational fishers have heard about AIS Survey question: How much have you heard about AIS? (79.3% response rate) Figure 25. Recreational fishers general awareness of AIS issues Survey question: How aware are you of the issues caused by AIS? (79.3% response rate) Recreational Fishers General Awareness of AIS Issues The survey team wanted to know the AIS issues of which recreational fishers are aware. This group was most aware of the loss of native species habitat due to invasive species (86.4%). 45.5% of the respondents are least aware of the threats to the water-dependent business and recreational sectors (Figure 26). One individual added another issue of which they are aware: the change in character of ecosystem. 15

16 Recreational Fishers Awareness of Major AIS Issues Figure 26. Recreational fishers awareness of major AIS issues Survey question: What are the major issues you are aware of that are caused by invasive species? (Check all that apply) (75.9% response rate) In response to the question From your understanding of AIS, what are two species you hear about most often as being invasive?, Zebra Mussels and Asian Shore Crabs were mentioned nine times each. Seven respondents wrote Asian crab versus Asian shore crab. These answers were counted as Asian Shore Crab, however we cannot be sure that the respondents know of the Asian Shore Crab specifically or if they think that all invasive crabs are from Asia. 21.7% of the respondents think that AIS spread at a moderate pace, 21.7% think that AIS spread at a fast pace, and 21.7% don t know (Figure 27) % said that the threat of AIS to the environmental wellbeing of Narragansett Bay is very serious (Figure 28). 36.4% of the respondents said that they have no knowledge at all or little knowledge about the policies and laws regarding AIS (Figure 29). Figure 27. Recreational fishers perception of the rate of spread of AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how would you assess the rate of spread of AIS in RI? (75.8% response rate) Recreational Fishers Perception of the Threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Recreational Fishers Perception of the Rate of Spread of AIS Figure 28. Recreational fishers perception of the threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Survey question: In your opinion, how serious a threat are AIS to the overall environmental wellbeing of Narragansett Bay? (75.9% response rate) 16

17 Figure 29. Recreational fishers knowledge of policies and laws regarding AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how knowledgeable do you think you are about policies and laws regarding AIS in the state of Rhode Island? (75.9% response rate) Recreational Fishers Knowledge of AIS Policies and Laws Recreational Fishers Interests More information on the following topics would be the most useful to the respondents: 1) overview of AIS in Rhode Island and AIS identification (70.6%) and 2) preventing the introduction and spread of AIS and the environmental impacts of AIS (52.9%) (Figure 30). Recreational Fishers General AIS Topic Priorities Fig ure 30. Recreational fishers general AIS topic priorities Survey question: To help us plan future training programs and other outreach events, please indicate how useful information on the following general AIS topics would be to you given your affiliation (58.6% response rate) 23.5% of the respondents said that information on the role of the nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would not be useful at all, 23.5% said that it wouldn t be useful, and 23.5% said it would be moderately useful. 23.5% said that more information on native alternatives to invasive and potentially invasive plants and animals used in water gardens and aquariums would be very useful while 23.5% said it wouldn t be useful at all (Figure 31). Usefulness of Information on Nursery/Water Garden/ Aquarium/Pet Shop Topics to Recreational Fishers Figure 31. Usefulness of information on nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics to recreational fishers Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics be to you? (58.6% response rate) 35.3% of the respondents said that more information on vessel fouling and ballast water and the role of commercial fishing and maritime transportation in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be moderately useful 17

18 (Figure 32). 23.5% said that more information on these topics would not be useful (Figure 32). Usefulness of Information on Commercial Fishing/Maritime Transportation Topics to Recreational Fishers Figure 32. Usefulness of information on commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics to recreational fishers Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics be to you? (58.6% response rate) 52.9% of the respondents said that more information on the issue of vessel fouling and the role of recreational fishing and boating in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be very useful. 70.0% said that more information on the role of the bait trade would be very useful (Figure 33). Usefulness of Information on Recreational Fishing/Boating Topics to Recreational Fishers Figure 33. Usefulness of information on recreational fishing and boating topics to recreational fishers Survey question: How useful would information on the following recreational fishing and boating topics be to you? (58.6% response rate) Preferred Delivery Formats The preferred formats for delivering information on the topics above are: 1) education programs that are delivered electronically (62.5%); 2) website Recreational Fishers Preferred Formats information (56.3%); and 3) printed material (31.3%) (Figure 34). Figure 34. Recreational fishers preferred formats for receiving AIS information Survey Question: Please rank how likely you are to make use of information offered in each of the following formats. ( 58.6% response rate) For those who said that they would attend a training program, winter is the preferred season (76.5%) and on weekday evenings (21.7%) or Saturday mornings (20.0%) (Figure 35). Summer is the second preferred season (17.6%). Programs 18

19 should be held on weekday evenings (35.3%) or Saturday mornings, 9:00 AM to noon (31.3%). Recreational Fishers Preferred Times for Programs Figure 35: Recreational fishers preferred times for programs Survey question: Please indicate how convenient it is for you to attend a program at the following times. (58.6% response rate) Wednesday and Thursday (60.0% and 17.2% response rates, respectively) are preferred days for attending morning or afternoon programs. Tuesday and Wednesday are preferred for weeknight programs at 6:00 PM (50.0%) and the same nights with a light meal (57.1%) (Figure 36). Figure 36. Recreational fishers preferences for weeknight programs Survey question: If weeknight programs (~1-3 hours in length) work the best for you, please indicate which of the following days and times are the most convenient. (48.3% response rate) Workshop-specific announcements and electronic newsletters or e-briefs from various organizations are the most useful ways for the respondents to receive announcements of workshop and training opportunities. 43.8% said that websites are useful (Figure 37). Preferred Days and Times for Weeknight Programs 7:00pm 6:30pm 6:00pm (with light meal) 5:30pm (with light meal) 5:00pm (with light meal) 4:30pm (with light meal) Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Monday 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% Recreational Fishers Preferred Mechanisms for Receiving Training Announcements Figure 37. Recreational fishers preferred mechanisms for receiving training announcements Survey question: How useful do you find each of the following methods of receiving announcements about workshop/ training opportunities? (55.2% response rate) Partnership Opportunities One recreational fisher said that they were interested in connecting with relevant organizations to coordinate AIS-related activities, while 95.2% are not interested (72.4% response rate). Two respondents indicated that speakers would be useful and one respondent indicated that AIS specialists and training and outreach coordination would be useful. 19

20 Recommendations for Outreach to Recreational Fishers Hold programs in 1) winter, or 2) summer; on 1) weekday evenings (Tuesday or Wednesday at 6:00 PM), or 2) Saturday mornings. Deliver information on trainings and other events through workshop-specific announcements and electronic newsletters/e-briefs. Design electronic educational materials and direct stakeholders to websites. Develop trainings on: 1) overview of AIS and 2) AIS identification. Provide information on recreational fishing and boating topics and AIS threats to the water-dependent business and recreational sectors. Recreational Boaters Rhode Island s recreational boaters are listed in the RIAIS Plan as a priority stakeholder group to receive specialized training in AIS. Six individuals indicated their primary stakeholder group as recreational boaters, while 22 people considered recreational boaters to be their secondary stakeholder group. Each section of the assessment pertaining to recreational boaters includes data from 28 respondents for the most representative results, unless otherwise specified. 70.4% of the respondents said they would benefit from further AIS education and training and continued to all sections of the survey (Figure 38). 14.8% said they would not benefit and were not directed to answer questions about accessibility. 22.7% said they can play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS. An equal amount do not think they can play an important role (Figure 39). Figure 38. Recreational boaters interest in AIS education and training Survey question: Do you feel that you could benefit from further AIS education or training? (By choosing "No" you will not be prompted to answer any questions about training information and accessibility and will be directed to answer questions about Basic AIS Knowledge) (96.4% response rate) Recreational Boaters Interest in AIS Education and Training 20

21 Recreational Boaters Agreement on the Importance of Their Role Related to AIS Figure 39. Recreational boaters agreement on the importance of their role related to AIS Survey question: Thinking about the role of your stakeholder group, how much do you agree or disagree with the following statement? My stakeholder group can play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS (78.6% response rate) General AIS Existing Knowledge 69.6 % of the respondents said that they are very familiar with the definition of native species as provided and 65.2% are very familiar with the definition of invasive species as provided (Figure 40). On a scale of one ( haven t heard anything ) to five ( have heard a lot ), 43.5% of recreational boaters have heard about AIS (Figure 41). 34.8% said that they are either aware or neither aware nor unaware of the issues caused by AIS (Figure 42). Figure 40: Recreational boaters familiarity with species definitions Survey question: How familiar are you with these definitions? (82.1% response rate) Recreational Boaters Familiarity with Species Definitions Amount Recreational Boaters Have Heard About AIS Figure 41. The amount recreational boaters have heard about AIS Survey question: How much have you heard about AIS? (82.1% response rate) 21

22 Figure 42. Recreational boaters general awareness of AIS issues Survey question: How aware are you of the issues caused by AIS? (82.1% response rate) Recreational Boaters General Awareness of AIS Issues The types of issues caused by invasive species that recreational boaters are aware of include: 1) decrease or elimination of native species (90.9%); 2) loss of native species habitat (86.4%); and 3) economic issues associated with the costs of control/restoration (Figure 43). Recreational Boaters Awareness of Major AIS Issues Figure 43. Recreational Boaters awareness of major AIS issues Survey question: What are the major issues you are aware of that are caused by invasive species? (Check all that apply) (78.6 response rate) In response to the question From your understanding of AIS, what are two species you hear about most often as being invasive?, recreational boaters entered the following species once each: Zebra Mussel, Asian Carp, Cormorant, and Asian Shore Crab. Figure 44. Recreational boaters perception of the rate of spread of AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how would you assess the rate of spread of AIS in RI? (78.6% response rate) Recreational Boaters Perception of the Rate of Spread of AIS 27.3% of 28 recreational boaters did not know how to assess the rate of spread of AIS in Rhode Island (Figure 44). 31.8% said the threat of AIS to the environmental wellbeing of Narragansett Bay is serious (Figure 45). 36.4% are not knowledgeable about policies and laws regarding AIS in Rhode Island (Figure 46). 22

23 Figure 45. Recreational boaters perception of the threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Survey question: In your opinion, how serious a threat are AIS to the overall environmental wellbeing of Narragansett Bay? (78.5% response rate) Recreational Boaters Perception of the Threat of AIS to Narragansett Bay Recreational Boaters Knowledge of AIS Policies and Laws Figure 46. Recreational boaters knowledge of policies and laws regarding AIS Survey question: Thinking about your understanding of AIS, how knowledgeable do you think you are about policies and laws regarding AIS in the state of Rhode Island? (78.5% response rate) 100% of primary recreational boaters said that customer knowledge about the introduction and spread of invasive species in Rhode Island was not applicable. Regarding the 28 recreational boaters, 5.0% (one individual) said that their customers are very knowledgeable (Figure 47). Figure 47. Recreational boaters perception of customer knowledge of the introduction and spread of invasive species If you work in retail or wholesale, how knowledgeable do you think that your customers are about the introduction and spread of invasive species in RI? (71.4% response rate) Recreational Boaters Perception of Customers AIS Knowledge 23

24 Recreational Boaters Interests Recreational boaters said that the most useful AIS topics are: 1) AIS identification (84.2%); 2) overview of AIS in Rhode Island (78.9%); and 3) information on preventing the introduction and spread of AIS and reporting methods (57.9% each) (Figure 48). Figure 48. Recreational boaters general AIS topic priorities Survey question: To help us plan future training programs and other outreach events, please indicate how useful information on the following general AIS topics would be to you given your affiliation. (67.9 response rate) Recreational Boaters General AIS Topic Priorities 26.3% of the respondents said that information on the role of the nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS would be moderately useful. 31.6% said that native alternatives to invasive and potentially invasive plants and animals used in water gardens and aquariums would be useful (Figure 49). Usefulness of Information on Nursery/Water Garden/ Pet Shop Topics to Recreational Boaters Figure 49. Usefulness of information on nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics to recreational boaters Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics be to you? (67.9% response rate) 36.8% of the respondents said that more information on vessel fouling and ballast water and the role of commercial fishing and maritime transportation in the prevention of AIS introduction and spread would be moderately useful (Figure 50). Figure 50. Usefulness of information on commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics to recreational boaters Survey question: How useful would additional information on the following commercial fishing/maritime transportation topics be to you? (67.9% response rate) Usefulness of Information on Commercial Fishing/Maritime Transportation Topics to Recreational Boaters 52.6% of the respondents said that more information on the issue of vessel fouling and the role of recreational fishing and boating in the prevention of AIS introduction and spread would be very useful. 63.2% said that more 24

25 information on the role of the bait trade would be very useful (Figure 51). Usefulness of Information on Recreational Fishing/Boating Topics to Recreational Boaters Figure 51. Usefulness of information on recreational fishing and boating topics to recreational boaters Survey question: How useful would information on the following recreational fishing and boating topics be to you? (67.9% response rate) Preferred Delivery Formats The preferred formats for delivering information on the topics above are: 1) website information (72.2%) and 2) education programs delivered electronically and printed materials (57.9% each) (Figure 52). Figure 52. Recreational boaters preferred formats for receiving AIS information Survey Question: Please rank how likely you are to make use of information offered in each of the following formats. (67.9% response rate) Recreational Boaters Preferred Formats Winter is the preferred season for programs (77.8%) followed by summer (11.1%) (64.3% response rate for each). On weekday evenings (42.1%) or Saturday mornings, 9:00 AM to noon (31.6%) (Figure 53). Recreational Boaters Preferred Times for Programs Figure 53: Recreational boaters preferred times for programs Survey question: Please indicate how convenient it is for you to attend a program at the following times. (67.9% response rate) Preferred days for afternoon and morning programs are Thursday (100.0%), Tuesday (66.7%) and Wednesday (21.4%). Weeknight programs are preferred for Tuesday and Thursday (53.3%) at either 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM (53.3%) (Figure 54). 25

26 7:00pm 6:30pm 6:00pm (with light meal) 5:30pm (with light meal) 5:00pm (with light meal) 4:30pm (with light meal) Thursday Preferred Days and Times for Weeknight Programs Figure 54. Recreational boaters preferences for weeknight programs Survey question: If weeknight programs (~1-3 hours in length) work the best for you, please indicate which of the following days and times are the most convenient. (53.6% response rate) Wednesday The preferred mechanisms for recreational Tuesday Monday boaters to receive the above information are: 1) 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% websites (55.6%); 2) electronic newsletters/ebriefs from various organizations (50.0%); and 3) electronic newsletters/e-briefs from various organizations (Figure 55). Figure 55. Recreational boaters preferred mechanisms for receiving training announcements Survey question: How useful do you find each of the following methods of receiving announcements about workshop/training opportunities? (64.3% response rate) Recreational Boaters Preferred Mechanisms for Receiving Training Announcements Partnership Opportunities Two of the six recreational boaters in the primary stakeholder group indicated interest in connecting with relevant organizations to coordinate AISrelated activities and one declined (50.0% response rate). Of 28 boaters, six indicated interest in AIS specialists (83.3%) and training and outreach coordination (66.7%) (Figure 56). Recreational Boaters Interest in Connecting with Relevant Organizations to Coordinate AIS-related Activities Figure 56. Recreational boaters interest in connecting with relevant organizations to coordinate AIS-related activities Survey question: Are you interested in connecting with relevant organizations to coordinate AIS-related activities? If yes, which general types of resources would be the most useful? (Please check all that apply) (27.3% response rate) 26

27 Recommendations for Outreach to Recreational Boaters Hold programs in: 1) winter, or 2) summer; on 1) weekday evenings (Tuesday or Thursday at 6:00 PM), or 2) Saturday mornings. Deliver information on trainings and other events through electronic newsletters/e- and direct stakeholders to websites. briefs and websites. Design electronic educational materials Develop trainings on: 1) overview of AIS and 2) AIS identification. Provide information on nursery/water garden/aquarium/pet shop trade topics, recreational fishing and boating topics, the degradation of environmental quality, and threats to the water-dependent business and recreational sectors. SCUBA Divers Rhode Island s SCUBA divers are listed in the RIAIS Plan as a priority stakeholder group to receive specialized training in AIS. One respondent indicated that SCUBA diving was their primary stakeholder group. 14 people listed SCUBA diving as their secondary stakeholder group. Responses from all 15 will be analyzed for a representative assessment. 76.7% of the respondents said that they would benefit from further AIS education and training, 13.3% do not believe they would benefit and therefore were not directed to answer questions about accessibility, and 20. 0% do not know (Figure 57). 35.7% neither agree nor disagree on the importance of their role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS, and 21.4% said that they strongly agree that they play an important role in this instance (Figure 58). SCUBA Divers Interest in AIS Education and Training Figure 57. SCUBA Divers interest in AIS education and training Survey question: Do you feel that you could benefit from further AIS education or training? (By choosing "No" you will not be prompted to answer any questions about training information and accessibility and will be directed to answer questions about Basic AIS Knowledge) (100.0% response rate) 27

28 Figure 58. SCUBA Diver s agreement on the importance of their role related to AIS Survey question: Thinking about the role of your stakeholder group, how much do you agree or disagree with the following statement? My stakeholder group can play an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS (93.3% response rate) SCUBA Divers Agreement on the Importance of Their Role Related to AIS General AIS Existing Knowledge 71.4% of the respondents said that they are very familiar with the definition of native species as provided and 57.1% are very familiar with the definition of invasive species as provided (Figure 59). On a scale of 1 ( haven t heard anything ) to 5 ( have heard a lot ), 35.7% SCUBA divers said that they have heard a moderate amount about AIS (Figure 60). 35.7% of the respondents said that they are moderately aware of the issues caused by AIS (Figure 61). SCUBA Divers Familiarity with Species Definitions Figure 59: SCUBA divers familiarity with species definitions Survey question: How familiar are you with these definitions? (93.3% response rate) Figure 60. The amount SCUBA divers have heard about AIS Survey question: How much have you heard about AIS? (93.3% response rate) Amount SCUBA Divers Have Heard of AIS 28