[RWG] QUESTION: Request info on non-local genotype research 4 aquatic genera or species (fwd)

[Plant Conservation]

Cross-posted from the native-plants list just in case anyone here has
other info or ideas.  Please respond directly to Karen at
growinwild at aol.com

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Tue, 6 Jul 2004 15:06:09 EDT
From: Growinwild at aol.com
Subject: Request info on non-local genotype research 4 aquatic genera or
    species

Any help on a few aquatic species, listed below, regarding research results
on introducing non-local genotypes into a local aquatic community of the same
species would be greatly apprecieated.

    I have been away from research for awhile, however have discovered
recently that the Department of Energy at Brookhaven National Laboratory
(BNL) on Long Island, NY, is planning to introduce 16,000 plugs of four
aquatic species imported from New Jersey into the headwaters of the
Peconic River, a river that possesses globally rare elements. The methods
that they are planning to use are costly, unnecessary, and, according to
some research on other species, potentially disastrous.

    I have been asked to meet with senior staff of BNL and DOE at a suddenly
planned meeting tomorrow regarding this situation. Therefore, if you have done
research or are familiar with others' work or existing research on any
introduction of non-local genotypes of the following species, either pro or con:

    Scirpus (any species okay)
    Juncus effusus
    Vallisneria
    Polygonum amphibian (or any of the aquatic species)

 I would DEEPLY appreciate hearing from you, even if it's a quick note.

    Someone on the senior staff has suggested that "hybrid vigor" may be
beneficial. Any comment?

    Many, many thanks for any help.    Karen

Karen Blumer
Native Plant Consultant
15 Dickerson Drive
Shoreham, NY 11786
631-821-3337
Fax 631-821-5636
growinwild at aol.com