James M. Jeffords: “the bill before us today recognizes some of the challenges that face States and metropolitan planning agencies when…”

“the bill before us today recognizes some of the challenges that face States and metropolitan planning agencies when developing plans for future highway projects. We have included natural resource and environmental factors for States and metropolitan planning agencies to consider when developing their transportation plans. They should consider protecting habitat, water quality and agricultural and forest land while minimizing invasive species. While I am most familiar with aquatic invasive species such as the sea lamprey and the zebra mussel that are wreaking havoc on my beloved Lake Champlain, nonnative species of vegetation have been degrading public and private property, degrading habitat, crops, and pastures. State transportation planning agencies can become active stewards in roadside management by phasing out the uses of nonnative vegetation and reestablishing native plants on our rights-of-way. In addition to considering invasive species during the planning process, this bill makes funding available for the control of invasive plant species and establishment of native species. To help States and metropolitan planning agencies assess the. environmental impacts of proposed highway projects we suggest consulting with other State and local agencies. Those responsible for land use management, natural resources, environmental protection, conservation and historic preservation should compare transportation plans with State conservation plans.…”