Invasive Species Information

Why should you be concerned about invasive species?

Invasive (non-native) species spread aggressively and displace or destroy both native and commercially cultivated plants and animals. After development and habitat conversion, invasive species are considered to be the greatest threat to natural systems, agriculture and aquaculture.

Annually, invasive species cost Virginia more than $1 billion, while nationally the toll exceeds $120 billion. Invasive species damage can degrade crops, pasture and forestlands, clog waterways, spread human and livestock diseases, and destroy street trees. As international trade and travel continue to increase, we face growing ecological and economic threats from invasive species to our farmlands, forests, rivers and streams, and quality of life.

How did they get here?

Ever-increasing globalization and international trade activity have opened the floodgates for both intentional and accidental introductions of invasive species to Virginia from all over the world. Intentional introductions include ornamental plants for gardens, erosion control, food for both livestock and people, and pets. Accidental introductions can be stowaways in ship ballast water, hidden in shipping crates, mixed in with plant materials from other parts of the world, and hitchhikers on traveler’s clothes, luggage, and vehicles.  –  from Virginia’s Dept. of Conservation and Recreation

Please use this as a chance to learn and disseminate this information to family and friends so that we can all work together to manage invasives already established and head off new invaders while they are still limited in their range.