Laserfiche WebLink
V'Vater Supply Reserve Account - Grant Application Form <br />Form Revised May 2007 <br />Task 3 - Public Education <br />DescripNon: <br />States such as Minnesota have put careful thought into the role of public education and have deternuned that public <br />education is the number one cost effective way to minimize the spread of zebra mussels. They believe their <br />aggressive public education campaign to educate the public about zebra/quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive <br />species has led to reduction in the rates of spread. They have focused heavily on altering recreational water users <br />habits to ensure they are draining all water when leaving a lake, inspecting, cleaning and drying boats between <br />reservoirs. There is a wealth of educational material available for this purpose from other states that describes the <br />biology, life history, and modes of transporting zebra mussels, as well as providing specific and detailed <br />instructions for minimizing the risk of spreading these invasive species. Materials specific to Colorado are <br />required as well, but can be produced using other states information as a cost efficient starting point. <br />Methods: <br />The first step in the public education process is to ensure park staff are fully trained and versed in the biology <br />and impacts of these invasive species, as well as in the procedures for draining, inspecting and decontaminating <br />as well as sampling. These trainings are readily available and cost efficient because so many others in other <br />states are setting up the same processes right now. The second step is to create specific tailored handouts and <br />signs to direct people to the specific situation in Colorado and the specific policies and procedures they need to <br />follow. The signs will then be placed at the parks to direct the public to the right locations and for the right <br />procedures. The brochures will be distributed by hand at all points of contact with the pubic (visitor centers, <br />entrance stations, inspection points, boat ramps and marinas). We would also create tailored and specific <br />materials for all registered boat owners in Colorado and mail them out prior to Memorial Day weekend. We <br />would include materials again with the boat renewals in December 2008, and again in a smaller mailing before <br />Memorial Day 2009. These materials and education processes will be a very cost efficient way to enlist the <br />cooperation of the public in minimizing the spread of these harmful invasive species. <br />Deliverables/products: <br />A report at the end of the grant detailing the numbers of Mailings, brochures and signage distributed. <br />II. Personnel <br />This project will be administered by Park biological staff and Pueblo park management staff. <br />Inspections and Decontamination will be conducted by seasonal workers according to these rates: <br />Lake Pueblo Seasonal Workers <br />Comrnissioned Seasonals - $19.031hr <br />Non-commissioned seasonals - $15.06/hr <br />Gate workers - $8.25/hr <br />5