Oregon Sea Grant

Watersheds and Water Resources

A Predictive Approach to Risk Analysis and the Economics of Early Detection and Rapid Response for Aquatic Invasive Species

Munisamy Gopinath
Agricultural and Resource Economics
Oregon State University
300 Kerr Administration Bldg
Corvallis, OR 97331-2121
Phone: 541 737 1402
Fax: 541 737 2563
Email
On the Web:
Dr. Gopinath's page
Co-PI: Sam Chan, Oregon Sea Grant

Budgets for invasive species (IS) detection and management tend to be relatively low compared to the increasing threats posed by invaders. Current budgets tend to focus on control programs, with little investment in prioritization, exclusion, prevention and early detection programs. Oregon lawmakers have recognized that investing in such programs carries a high potential return, but they have also expressed a need for research-based information to substantiate such investments. Thus the need for intuitive economic models that assess IS risks, analyze the most effective control points and prioritize strategies to empower policy makers and resource managers in lowering associated threats and costs.

Dr. Gopinath’s team hopes to predict aquatic invasive species introduction and establishment, and assess the costs and benefits of early detection and rapid response, and alternative management strategies. Subsequent evaluation with stakeholder and coastal dependent communities will contribute to the identification of best policies and strategies for preventing and controlling the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species. The project and its applications will empower policy makers with greater confidence in invasive species management decisions which can lead to more resources.

Learn more:

• OSU Uses Campground Firewood as Invasive Species Education Tool
• Aquatic Invasive Species