National Invasive Species Awareness Week

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu

Feb. 28 - Mar. 3 is National Invasive Species Awareness Week

Whether you know a lot about invasive species or a little or somewhere in between, take this opportunity to grow your knowledge. Learn about invasive species policy, climate change and its effects on invasive species populations, programs happening across the country and more.

What is an invasive species?

According to the North American Invasive Species Management Association, “Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, pathogens, and microorganisms. They can be found on land or in water. Once they become established in areas outside their normal habitat range, they are capable of causing severe damage, including harming the economy, the environment, or human health. 

"Invasive species have many ways of spreading, including human activity. For instance, weed seeds move easily in soil on muddy boots or vehicles. Aquatic invaders, such as the zebra and quagga mussel, can hitchhike and travel overland long distances on recreational watercraft and gear. Some invasive plants are quite attractive and are sold in nurseries as ornamental plants. [Invasive species] can also hide in nursery stock, potting mixes, or home décor made from raw wood products. Many invasive forest pests can move in or on cut firewood, pallets, or solid wood packing material."

esources from Extension

Extension has invasive species resources available to help you identify and manage invasive and non-native species in your yard and garden. Do you own lakeshore or just enjoy the many lakes, streams, creeks and rivers of Minnesota? Learn about keeping shoreland and lakes free of invasive species. Want to help? Become a First Detector volunteer, the first line of defense helping Extension, the MN DNR and the MN Department of Agriculture locate, identify and manage invasive species.