The talk by marine biologist Dr. James Carlton was on exotic invaders and their history. But the audience questions for the scientist, who is an expert in ballast water and the spread of non-native species, centered on the modern-day potential for marine organisms to infiltrate Coos Bay. Here are a few questions and Carlton's responses.

€ Q: Why not scrape the hulls of mothballed military ships in Suisin Bay near San Francisco before bringing them to other ports for dismantling?

A: Certainly if they are scraped it should happen in San Francisco. Interestingly, it might require a permit from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

€ Q: Why not take the ships out of the water and let the hulls dry out to kill the organisms?

A: It's possible to render a ship abiotic (kill the clingons), but cost would be the limiting factor.

€ Q: Is there any hope to eradicate a species once it invades a bay?

A: Many invader species quickly can become widespread. It's possible with a rapid response if biologists can find a starter population and knock it out. Some government entities have poisoned entire water bodies. But really, it's like putting toothpaste back in the tube.

€ Q: What can people do to get government officials to quit protecting introduced species, such as bass, perch and bluegill?

A: At some point, the issue leaves the world of science and becomes one of cultural and societal values.

€ Q: What about using biocontrols (other species to take them out)?

A: There's a hesitancy to do that in the ocean.

€ Q: Are invaders causing localized extinctions of native species?

A: There's not much data on it and few people are studying it.

€ Q: How can the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay use this information to ask questions and formulate policy?

A: Often scientists deliver the information but it's not used. They learn about the treatments that are used to control invasive species and the effectiveness. The most valuable thing to know is what species are being brought in on a daily basis.