R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-33-1: Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise:

(1) “Aquatic invasive species” means those invasive or non-native species that inhabit water resources including lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams.

(2) “Coordination” means to harmonize in a common action or effort and/or to function in a complementary manner.

(3) “Department” means the Rhode Island department of environmental management.

(4) “Invasive species” means an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm, or harm to human health.

(5) “Lake” or “pond” means a place, natural or manmade, located wholly or partly within the state of Rhode Island, where open standing or slowly moving water shall be present for at least six (6) months of the year.

(6) “Lake association” means an association, club, or other organization, formed and registered in Rhode Island, that has responsibility for stewardship and management of a freshwater lake or pond.

(7) “Non-native species” means a species of plant, animal, or microbe that is:

(i) Introduced to a country or region where it is not native;

(ii) Is reproducing and spreading without human cultivation; and

(iii) Is causing harm to native species or the areas in which they live.

(8) “Rhode Island lake management fund” means the fund established by § 46-33-3.