Great Lakes Ballast Water Research and Development Plan

Abstract

Per VIDA, the primary goal of this Research and Development (R&D) Plan is to identify approaches, methods, and best available technologies that can be applied to ballast water discharges that are effective at reducing propagules in Great Lakes ballast water, thereby decreasing the environmental risk associated with the ballast water vector from vessels operating exclusively within the Great Lakes System. Projects outlined in this R&D Plan will also consider the implications of these ballast water management approaches for vessels that operate in the Great Lakes System, but not solely within these waters. For example, a seagoing vessel that may visit the Great Lakes once a year may still be faced with having to treat Great Lakes water using a BWMS that has never been tested in Great Lakes water quality and biological conditions. In addressing these goals, ballast water treatment will be considered in addition to alternative approaches, such as ballast water best management practices. Importantly, the research projects outlined in this plan will provide essential scientific and technical information that will support science-based decisions during the VIDA rulemaking and implementation processes.