Invasive species impact everyone. When not monitored or controlled, invasive species can cause harm to our economy, environment or human health. A 2021 study estimated that invasive species have cost North America over $26 billion per year since 2010.
This week is National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW), an international event to raise awareness about invasive species, the threat that they pose, and what can be done to prevent their spread. NISAW encourages representatives from all levels of government as well as regional organizations to discuss legislation, policies, resources, and improvements that can be made to prevent and manage invasive species. Learn about NISAW and their policy priorities for the US Congress here.
There are many things you can do to help stem the tide of invasive species in Texas.
- One of the most effective ways to manage invasive species is for recreationalists such as boaters, fishermen, pet owners, and gardeners to Take Action.
- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) lists five other ways to prevent the spread of invasives are listed here.
- The Invaders of Texas Program is an innovative campaign whereby volunteer “citizen scientists” are trained to detect the arrival and dispersal of invasive species in their own local areas. That information is delivered into a statewide mapping database and to those who can do something about it. The premise is simple. The more trained eyes watching for invasive species, the better our chances of lessening or avoiding damage to our native landscape.
- Replace your invasive plants with native plants using this guide.
- Join the Native Plant Society of Texas whose mission is promoting research, conservation, and utilization of native plants and habitats through education, outreach, and example.
#NISAW #InvasiveSpecies #NPSOT #PlantNative #Biodiversity
