Project background
The goal of this project is to assess the values, beliefs, and prevention behaviors of two key stakeholder groups in the trade pathway: aquarium and pond-related businesses (such as pet stores and water garden suppliers) and aquarium hobbyists. The aquarium and horticultural industries represent significant pathways for the introduction of aquatic invasive species into Minnesota’s waterbodies and across the United States. Understanding the motivations and needs of these businesses and hobbyists is essential for developing effective prevention strategies.
MAISRC researchers will identify and document intervention strategies that are most effective for businesses and hobbyists, as well as the challenges and barriers to implementing these strategies. The project includes four main activities: convening an advisory team to guide the study design, conducting focus groups with pet and water garden business owners and managers, administering onsite and online surveys to aquarium hobbyists, and hosting an outreach workshop with stakeholders to discuss AIS policy, program implications, and future research and outreach needs.
The findings from this study will help inform outreach campaigns that engage and motivate businesses and hobbyists to take action in reducing the spread of AIS.