Managing invasive species matters because we want to create and preserve healthy environments for ourselves and future generations of people and wildlife. Invasive species can lead to the extinction of native plants and animals, destroy biodiversity, and reduce and alter wildlife habitat. The spread of invasive species negatively affects the environment, economy, human and animal health and safety.
All life depends on healthy ecosystems.
Invasive plants can cause these negative effects:
Wintercreeper vines grow thickly and smother trees
Invasive animals are considered to be a major factor in the extinction of numerous fish and wildlife species worldwide due to their ability to
Snakehead fish are aggressive predators that may disrupt freshwater ecosystems by feeding on native fishes, amphibians, and crustaceans.
Tree diseases that move into our habitats and can threaten native plants and animals. They do not have the natural controls that exist in their native environment to prevent their spread.
Beech bark disease is a deadly threat to an easily recognizable tree. Red nectria appear like blisters on the bark of beech trees, signaling a fatal end for the tree.
Economists have estimated that all invasive species - plants, animals and diseases - cause $120 billion in losses in the United States each year (Pimentel et al. 2005). Costs are related to farming, forestry and fishing, and infrastructure. The harm to our economy hinders sustainable economic growth by:
Increased agricultural costs are passed on to the consumer through higher food costs.
Bamboo can spread aggressively outside your property limits and be expensive to get rid of.
Photo credit: Joy Viola, Northeastern University, Bugwood.org
Enjoyment of Trails and Forests: Invasive species reduce the health and quality of our local parks and open spaces which reduces our opportunities to relax, think clearly, refresh and rejuvenate. Invasive species can create impenetrable barriers that limit access to trails and natural areas.
Natural Heritage: Our beautiful native Virginia plants, birds, fish and other wildlife are competing for the same food and habitat with invasive species. When they lose out, we can no longer enjoy their natural beauty. We have already lost American Chestnuts and Ash trees. Imagine a spring without Virginia bluebells.
Water Recreation: Invasive plants that spread into our waterways can limit our access or desire to boat and fish in our local lakes and streams.
Invasive Lesser Celandine overtaking field of native Virginia Bluebells
Learn more at Invasive Species Human Health Impacts
Red imported fire ant (RIFA) can attack and cause painful stings on humans, pets, and livestock
Walls of wisteria impair visibility and access through open spaces
