Palau National Invasive Species Strategy.

This nation-wide sectoral document has the main purpose of minimizing the harmful effects of invasive species on the environment and society of Palau through coordination of efforts at all levels of Palauan society, and to facilitate cooperation with neighboring countries and the Pacific Islands region to prevent the movement of invasive species. Guiding principles of the Strategy are (i) this issue management is an integral part of the sustainable management of natural resources and the environment; (ii) prevention and early intervention are the most cost effective techniques; (iii) the need for a coordinated national approach which involves all levels of government in partnership with private business, landholders, and communities; (iv) collective action is necessary where the problem is beyond the capacity of the individual land owner/manager to address.
The Strategy has four main goals (i) to provide a national framework for invasive species prevention and management; (ii) to prevent further invasions; (iii) to reduce the impacts of invasive species already present in the country; and (iv) to strengthen Palau’s participation in regional and international efforts for invasive species prevention and management. For the achievement of each goal, positive objectives for action are outlined and measurable outcomes defined. Specific action programs to be implemented under this Strategy are detailed in action plans.
To make agriculture and fisheries more sustainable and productive, the NISS suggests to apply for the Voluntary Code of Conduct for Farms (Agricultural and Aquacultural) annexed to the document. The document mentions other Codes of Conduct that are helpful to reduce the impact of invasive species in agriculture.
To enable a more inclusive and efficient agricultural systems to face invasive species that threaten Palau’s economy and agriculture, local parts are involved, such as (a) communities that are responsible for (i) organize local, cooperative efforts to mitigate the impact of invasive species; (ii) support and organize educational efforts regarding invasive species; and (iii) participate in the development and implementation of codes and policies to reduce the impact of invasive species; and (b) traditional leaders that are mainly responsible for (i) encourage responsible invasive species management using traditional authority: and (ii) manage invasive species on their own land responsibly, in cooperation with other landowners.
As for the Governance, the national Government has the management responsibilities, including land management, development of an appropriate legislative framework, including quarantine and environmental legislation, necessary to prevent the introduction or reduce the impact of invasive species and prevent them from spreading, and provide leadership, coordination and resources for research, assessment and eradication of invasive species.