Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE) is a research-driven organisms-in-trade outreach program. Since launching in May 2016, over 100,000 people have been exposed to RIPPLE’s message of proper aquatic animal and plant handling and disposal, reducing potentially invasive aquarium and ornamental pond species from being introduced into the wild. RIPPLE is an industry-supported program based on partnerships I developed with businesses and regulatory agencies while creating program messaging and outreach materials. Prior to RIPPLE, Michigan had no widely accepted organisms-in-trade program and independent businesses did not have tools to communicate invasive species prevention with their customers. I created partnerships with retailers, hobbyists, environmental groups and K-12 teachers through targeted outreach and communication efforts, including articles in relevant magazines, educational presentations, exhibits at popular events and educational in-store visits.To better understand the knowledge, perceptions and behaviors of those who sell aquatic organisms and supplies regarding invasive species, I surveyed independently-owned pet stores and garden centers in Michigan. Results indicate that sellers generally understand that non-native aquatic organisms in trade pose an environmental risk, but do not feel a high level of responsibility for taking action to prevent organism release. While awareness of RIPPLE was low at the time of the survey, businesses did report sharing many RIPPLE recommended practices including discouraging customers from releasing of live organisms. This indicates that program messaging is relevant and appropriate. The survey also revealed opinion and behavior differences between business types (e.g., pet stores, garden centers). Findings from this survey will support development of more effective invasive species prevention programs aligned with industry knowledge and attitudes.
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