To document a new infestation, the department shall:

1. (a) Conduct a site inspection of subject waterbody within 72 hours of a new report;
2. (b) Collect a specimen of the suspect plant;

3. (c) Determine whether the plant is a native or exotic species per RSA 487:16, II, as follows:

   1. (1) When fruit or flower is present, the department shall make an identification directly; and
   2. (2) When no fruit or flower is present, the department shall send the specimen for genetic analysis to verify the species level identification;
4. (d) Map and characterize the extent of the infestation;
5. (e) Document any native plant abundances and community structure around and dispersed within the exotic plant population; and
6. (f) Identify potential impacts to downstream habitats as a result of the infestation or possible control activities.

Source. (See Revision Note #1 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1300) #8703-A, eff 9-5-06; ss by #10696, eff 10-18-14 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1300)