An act relating to aquatic nuisance control

H.879 amends Vermont's permit process for applying chemicals to control invasive aquatic species in state waters. It requires property owners of private ponds to apply directly for permits, while municipalities or lake associations (with multiple groups needing joint applications) must apply for all other water bodies. The bill mandates that chemical use be a "measure of last resort" only after nonchemical methods fail, and applicants must prove minimal harm to non-target species. This directly affects pond owners, local governments, and lake associations seeking to manage invasive plants or animals like zebra mussels. The policy emphasizes prevention as the most effective and cost-efficient approach, aligning with Vermont's precautionary principle for water resource management.