National Invasive Species Awareness Week (February 26 – March 2, 2018)

What exactly is an invasive species? 

Every species has a native habitat where they are found naturally.  However, due to human intervention, may be relocated to an area where the species is not found.  Some of these species may not be an issue as they are unable to thrive or are easily contained in the new ecosystem.  Unfortunately, other species may be aggressive and have a negative impact on the new ecosystem. 

How do Virginia Master Naturalists Help?

The Master Naturalists are involved in a number of local invasive species removal projects.  Invasive species removal has concentrated on plant removal in historic, conservation, parkland and other area.  Typically, it involves physical labor to hand remove the invasive species from surrounding native plants.  We just worked with Friends of the Rappahannock on the removal of Japanese Honeysuckle from a section of their wildflower trail.  

How can people help?

Get involved in local projects where invasive species removal is needed.  The Virginia Master Naturalist program will post opportunities we are involved in.

Also, according to the NISAW (National Invasive Species Awareness Week), there are nine ways you can help reduce the spread of invasive species.

1. Learn about invasive species, especially those found in your region. Your county extension office and the National Invasive Species Information Center are both trusted resources.  For invasive species in Virginia use the Virginia Invasive Species site.
2. Clean hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles and other gear to stop invasive species from hitching a ride to a new location. Learn more at PlayCleanGo.org
3. Avoid dumping aquariums or live bait into waterways. Learn more at Habitattitude.org
4. Don't move firewood - instead, buy it where you'll burn it, or gather on site when permitted. Learn more at DontMoveFirewood.org
5. Use forage, hay, mulch and soil that are certified as "weed free."
6. Plant only non-invasive plants in your garden, and remove any known invaders.
7. Report new or expanded invasive species outbreaks to authorities. Here is a state-by-state list of contacts
8. Volunteer to help remove invasive species from public lands and natural areas.
9. Ask your political representatives at the state, local and national level to support invasive species control efforts.

What are some of the top invasive species in Virginia?

Plants

Ailanthus altissima	Tree-of-heaven
Alliaria petiolata	Garlic Mustard
Lonicera japonica	Japanese Honeysuckle
Lythrum salicaria	Purple Loosestrife
Microstegium vimineum	Japanese Stiltgrass
Pueraria montana var. lobata	Kudzu

Animals

     Emerald Ash Borer

     Northern Snakehead Fish

     Feral Swine

     Rapa Whelk

This is interesting and I would like to learn more:

VA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has a full list of invasive plants 
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/invsppdflist)

DCR has an extensive website with publications and resources http://www.vainvasivespecies.org/resources

Report Sightings of Invasive Species
http://www.vainvasivespecies.org/report-sightings