Congressman Adam Putnam (R-Fla.) is calling for stronger federal action to help stop the spread of invasive species in Florida that threaten the state’s ecosystems. Amendments Putnam is offering to the Interior appropriations bill are aimed at stopping the population explosion of Burmese Pythons and a beetle that spreads a deadly disease among wetlands trees and avocados.

“Despite the involvement of a number of agencies, it’s clear we are fighting a losing battle against these invasive species,” said Putnam. “We need to find out the reason why, and we need to fix the problem now. These invasive species are wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. Burmese Pythons are colonizing the Everglades, suddenly moving to the top of the food chain and devouring native and endangered animals.  This is a serious problem.”

Another invasive species, the redbay ambrosia beetle, is responsible for spreading laurel wilt fungus, a disease that threatens Florida’s avocado plants and native tree species.

“If this fungus spreads unchecked into southern Dade County, it will cause the loss of the entire avocado industry in Florida,” said Putnam. “We need to find a way to get all the agencies involved in stopping invasive species to work together more effectively.”

Putnam’s amendments would be to the Interior appropriations bill on the House Floor this week. They would require the Secretary of the Interior to report on the economic and environmental impact of invasive constrictor snake species, such as the Burmese Python, and the redbay ambrosia beetle. The Secretary would also be required to produce plans for the control and eradication of these invasive species. In addition the Comptroller General would be directed to review the activities and effectiveness of the National Invasive Species Council. His amendments will have to be made in order by the House Rules Committee in order to be considered by the full House.

Since 2001, Putnam has represented Florida’s 12^th Congressional District, which includes most of Polk County and portions of Hillsborough and Osceola counties.