Nebraska Invasive Species Advisory Council

The purpose of the Nebraska Invasive Species Advisory Council is to coordinate invasive species management and research across the State of Nebraska for the prevention and detection of invasive plant and animal species. Through a coordinated and well informed effort, we intend to provide land managers with the information needed to utilize funding and resources more effectively and efficiently. Our goal is to minimize the effects of harmful invasive species on Nebraska's citizens and ensure the economic and environmental well-being of the state.

The responsibilities of the council shall be to:

1. Develop and periodically update a statewide adaptive management plan for invasive species;

2. Serve as a forum for discussion, identification, and understanding of invasive species issues;

3. Facilitate the communication, cooperation, and coordination of local, state, federal, private, and non‐governmental entities for the prevention, control, and management of invasive species;

4. Assist with public outreach and awareness of invasive species issues;

5. Inform legislature in decision making, planning, and coordination of invasive species management and prevention; and

6. Establish advisory and technical committees considered necessary to aid and advise the council in the performance of its functions.

Current representation of the steering committee includes:

Mitch Coffin, Program Manager, Nebraska Department of Agriculture

Jim Douglas, Wildlife Division Administrator, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Scott Josiah, State Forester & Director, Nebraska Forest Service

Rob Schultz, Hall County Weed Control Superintendent, NWCA President

Chris Helzer, Program Director, The Nature Conservancy

Vicki Wohlers, State Plant Health Director, USDA, APHIS, PPQ

Dana Larsen, State Rangeland Management Specialist, Natural Resource Conservation Service

Gary D. Willson, National Park Service, Research Coordinator, GPCESU

Craig R. Allen, Unit Leader, Nebraska Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit