The legislature finds that:

(1) The land, water, and other resources of Washington are being severely impacted by the invasion of an increasing number of harmful invasive plant and animal species.

(2) These impacts are resulting in damage to Washington’s environment and causing economic hardships.

(3) The multitude of public and private organizations with an interest in controlling and preventing the spread of harmful invasive species in Washington need a mechanism for cooperation, communication, collaboration, and developing a statewide plan of action to meet these threats.