Invasive Species

July 2025 Edition: Invasive Species by: Bill Sudyam, ACE

Invasive species have been introduced throughout history. Some evidence has been suggested as early as prehistoric times. Human and animal migration, exploration, travel and intentional introduction have all contributed. Let's take a look at Invasive Species!

First, we need to define what an invasive species is. An invasive species is a non-native organism that disperses quickly and grows in a native ecosystem. These organisms could be an animal, plant, insect, disease, or parasite that is a detriment to the ecosystem.

Many things we consider invasive are normal in other parts of the world and even in our country. The African Fire Ant, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Asian Lady Beetle, Common Starling, Asian Carp and Zebra Mussels, to mention a few, are only invasive when added to an ecosystem that is not native to them. Many of these are introduced to non-native areas as goods are delivered by boat, as we travel throughout the world and even to beautify our landscaping. Some have even been brought in to address a specific pest issue.

Not all non-native species are invasive. Many grains, fruits and vegetables are not native to where they are grown. Some animals and insects are also not native to the areas they inhabit. When species are able to adapt and reproduce easily, harm local wildlife, negatively affect the economy, or harm property they become invasive. They may also outcompete native species for food and harborage. The number of invasive species is extensive and far too many to list.

How do we know if we encounter an invasive species? The first step is to educate yourself. Reading publications, being attentive to local alerts, and knowing the species in your area. When a specimen cannot be obtained, the area can be inspected to determine life stages, breeding habits, type of feeding, and harborage to help identify the species.

Controlling invasive species can be quite challenging. Normally, there are three methods to address this. Mechanical, chemical and biological. Let's take a look at these approaches.

The mechanical approach physically modifies the environment or removes the species. Removing tall weeds, thinning trees and shrubs, tilling the soil, and building retention structures are a few examples. By modifying the habitat to create an area that is not receptive to the species they will not thrive.

The chemical approach involves pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and herbicides. This approach can be effective for large-scale infestations. When using the chemical approach, it is critical to evaluate the safety to the environment and the effect it may have on non-target species.

Biological control introduces natural predators, pathogens, and parasites of the invasive species to control the population. An example would be introducing an insect that feeds on a particular plant or a pathogen that can control the population.

It is our responsibility to prevent the spread of invasive species. Sanitation and education are the two main factors in preventing the spread of invasive species. Keep equipment clean before traveling, remove dirt and debris from shoes and clothing, and responsibly remove waste. Do not transport firewood and vegetation. Use native species for gardening and landscaping. This will help to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Educate friends and colleagues about the dangers of introducing non-native species, be it plants, animals, or insects. Inspect the property and be able to identify species that are not native to your area. We should also report any discovery to the proper authority with a picture, the location of the sighting and the species, if possible, to allow the proper response.

Invasive species have a rippling effect on not only our farms, forests, and personal property, but they can also affect our economy. We all must do our part to keep local ecosystems thriving.