Friday, December 24, 2010

Firewood Tips

Before using just any firewood this winter, know that moving firewood poses a risk on spreading invasive insect species. To help slow the spread of these insects, remember these firewood tips below.
*Buy and burn firewood locally.
*Don't buy firewood just because it looks clean and healthy.
*Commercially kiln-dried firewood is a good option if firewood must be moved.
*If you already have firewood from another location, burn it quickly and completely.
*Tell others of the dangers of moving firewood.
Click here to read more.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Globalization Weighs Down Future Generations

A new study on biological invasions based on extensive data of alien species from 10 taxonomic groups and 28 European countries has shown that patterns of established alien species richness are more related to historical levels of socio-economic drivers than to contemporary ones. An international group of 16 researchers reported the new finding this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (PNAS). The publication resulted from the three-year project DAISIE (Delivering Alien Invasive Inventory for Europe, www.europe-aliens.org), funded by European Union within its 6th Framework Programme. Click the source link to read more.

Source:Click here

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Gee Creek Undergoes Native Makeover

Gee Creek in Washington recently underwent a native species makeover. The city removed invasive plants along the creek and replaced nonnative plants with 150 native trees. The city did this work through a grant funded by the Department of Ecology. City employees, volunteers and AmeriCorps teams gave their time to help clean up the invasives at Gee Creek. Click here to read more.

100 Pound African Tortoise Found in Arizona

The Arizona Game and Fish Department recently found a 100 pound tortoise living in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. Native Arizona turtles rarely get up to 15 pounds. Scientists believe this African spurred tortoise was an exotic pet and released into the wild. Although these invasive turtles' native environment is similar to the Arizona desert, that does not mean they are not a serious threat to the ecosystem and native species. Scientists want to send out a reminder on how important it is to not release exotic pet species into the wild. Click here to read more.

Delayed Legacy

Research warns that the full impact of an invasive species may take decades after its initial introduction to an area. Scientists also suggest that future invaders have already been sown, which makes them more difficult to control. The threat from invasives is considered to be one of the main factors of biodiversity loss, habitat loss and fragmentation. Click here to read more.

EDRR Alert for Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum)

Leatherleaf viburnum, Viburnum rhytidophyllum, has been found naturalized in Indianapolis parks. It was first spotted last year at a park in the southeast corner of the county, where it is in the landscaping, and this year at parks in the south-central and northwest section of the county. It has probably naturalized in other places also. This is a popular landscaping shrub in Indiana. Is anyone else seeing this shrub spreading to natural areas in Indiana or the surrounding states? If so please report sighting to MIPN or EDDMapS.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Feral Swine is New Invasive Species in Michigan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment signed an order to make feral swine and wild boar an invasive species starting July 11, 2011. These two species pose a great threat on the state's ecosystem, agriculture, wildlife, humans and native species. The feral swines that are in Michigan escaped from hunting or breeding facilities. Since the effective date is not until next summer, this gives legislature time to provide regulations for hunting and breeding facilities. However, if the legislature is not passed to regulate these facilities the invasive species order will go into effect which will make it illegal to possess wild boar in Michigan. Click here to read more.

Want To Fight Invasives And Not A Homeowner?

Ursula Vernon decided to begin working to help wildlife and our native habitats even though  her garden was limited to her patio. By doing this she was also choosing to fight invasive plants in the natural areas near her home. Click here to read her article 'First Steps' at Wildlife Garden: Redefining Beautiful.

National Invasive Species Awareness Week

National Invasive Species Awareness Week 2011 (NISAW) will be held on February 28-March 4, 2011 in Washington, DC. Click here to register for the event.

Saving ‘Georgia’s Amazon’

Georgia’s Amazon River, also known as Georgia’s Altamaha River in the southeast part of the state, is one of the most pristine and undisturbed river systems in Georgia. Two decades of hard work and commitment by The Nature Conservancy of Georgia will allow it to be protected in perpetuity. Click here to read the article: Saving ‘Georgia’s Amazon’ in the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

Killer Bee Attack

Click here to watch a killer bee attack that was caught on video.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Man-Sized Catfish

Click here to watch a video of Jeremy Wade risking his life to catch a man-sized catfish.

Lake Tahoe Decontaminates Boats with Aquatic Invasives

Lake Tahoe's watercraft inspection program was very effective this year. Inspectors performed over 8,000 boat inspections during the 2010 boating season. Also, 19,000 watercraft launches occurred with Tahoe-specific inspection seals. Of these numbers, 11 boats containing aquatic invasives were intercepted and decontaminated. Lake Tahoe's watercraft inspection program is focused on preventing aquatic invasives from spreading and harming the ecosystem. Click here to read more.

New Attack on Asian Carp

A new attack against Asian carp has been established with more tracking and monitoring using environmental DNA and developing new methods to slow the invasive species' movement toward the Great Lakes. Environmental DNA, also called eDNA, consists of collecting cell samples the carp leaves behind such as fish scales, urine and feces. These samples are then matched with DNA records that distinguish Asian carp from other fish species. This method is controversial by many because it has never been used in this way before and due to samples indicating a large number of Asian carp have past the electric barriers that are near Lake Michigan. Click here to read more.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Fuller Brook Park Preservation Project Plans to Remove Invasive Species

The Fuller Brook Park Preservation Project is almost done with its preliminary design phase. Proposed in the plan is a lot of work removing invasive species. Invasive species are species not native to the area. The group will remove these invasives that are of high risk and replace them with native plant species. Click here to read more.

New Ag-Specific Radio Show

Tifton's local radio station WTIF will launch a new ag-specific radio show on January 17, 2011 targeting farmers in Tift County and the half dozen surrounding counties that the station currently reaches. The 30 minute show will air, for now, at 9:30 A.M. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with local ag news, advertising time and interview-style conversation on an ag-related topic. If you are interested in being a part of the show, contact Brad Haire at bhaire@uga.edu or 229-386-3800.

U.S. Apple Market Worries About Chinese Imports

U.S. apple growers fear China importing apples into the United States could be destructive to the domestic market. China is known for exporting invasive insects and plant diseases into countries it currently ships apples. Also, with China producing over half of the world's apple crop, they have the ability to supply apples at prices well below the U.S. cost of production. Click here to read more.

Restoring Native Ecosystems 2011

The Stewardship Network and the Midwest Land Trust Alliance partner this year to bring you two great days of informative talks and workshops that will focus on Stewardship and A Sense of Place. Deep local knowledge of Place is an invaluable resource for understanding our role caring for natural lands and waters and how it relates to regional, national and global events. The event will be held on January 21-22, 2011 in East Lansing, Michigan. To learn more about the event and/or to register, click here.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

95% of Americans Value Trees as Important to Quality of Life

The Nature Conservancy conducted a poll in September that found that 95% of Americans consider trees to be very important to their quality of life; 82% favor policy measures that would limit trade with certain countries; and 85% support government incentives for nurseries to adopt measures to prevent introduction and spread of pests. To read the article click here.

Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species

The 22nd USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species will be held January 11-14, 2011 at The Loews Annapolis Hotel in Annapolis, Maryland. For a registration form and meeting information click here.

The Invasive Species Biologist's Version of "Twas the Night Before Christmas"

By Les Mehrhoff, Chief Botanical Officer, Invasive Plant Control


T’was the night before Christmas, when all through the habitat

Not an organism was locomoting, not even a nonindigenous Mus musculus.

The posterior appendage covers were hung by the chimney by care,

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.


The F1 generation were nestled all snug in their hibernacula,
While visions of monosaccharide pruni danced through their cephalia.

And mamma in her kerchief and I in my cephalial cover,

Had just settled our crania for a long winter’s hibernation.


When out on the hoped-for monoculture of non-native Poa pratensis there arose such a clatter,

I locomoted from my bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I locomoted like a flash,

Tore open the shutter and threw up the sash.


The moon on the mammary of new-fallen frozen precipitation

Gave a luster of mid-day to objects below;

When what to my wondering ocular organs should appear,

But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny Rangifera tarandi,


With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.

More rapid than Haliaeetus leucocephali his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:


“Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! on Cupid! on Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the Porch! To the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”


As desiccated photosynthetic organs that before the wild hurricane fly,

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleighful of toys, and St. Nicholas too.


And then in a scintilla, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little ungula.

As I drew in my cephalium and was turning around,

Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.


He was dressed all in mammalian epidermal covering from his cephalium to his pedis.

And his clothes were all tarnished with the products of incomplete combustion.

A bundle of toys he had slung on his dorsal surface,

And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.


His ocular organs, how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!

His mela were like the overbred flowers of some cultivar of the genus Rosa, his naris like the fruit of the non-native Prunus avium!

His droll little stoma was drawn up like a bow,

And the pubescence on his antherion was as white as the frozen precipitation.


The stump of a pipe he held tight in his dens,

And the smoke, it encircled his cephalium like a circular arrangement of gymnosperm

branches with Ilex opaca and Phoradendron leucarpum.

He had a broad protome, and a little round abdomen,

That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of gelatin.


He was chubby and gibbous—a right jolly old elf—

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.

A wink of his ocular organ, and a twist of his cephalium,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.


He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And filled all the posterior appendage covers; then turned with a jerk,

And laying his digit aside of his naris,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.


He sprang to his sleigh, to the team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew, like the pappus of the highly invasive Cirsium arvense,

But I heard him exclaim, e’re he drove out of sight,

“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Symposium on Phragmites Invasions in Michigan

A Symposium to build capacity for management of Phragmites invasions in Michigan will be held March 28-30, 2011 at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center, Michigan State University. The Great Lakes Commission is working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment and other partners to plan and conduct a regional symposium on management and control of the non-native, invasive plant, Phragmites australis. Click here for more information and to register.

Ecology and Management of Invasive Plant Species Course

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is offering a 3 day short course, July 6-8, on the ecology and management of invasive plant species. The course is open to private and public land managers as well as graduate students. The course is limited to 40 participants so sign up while space is available. Go to the website for more information or to register. For a copy of the brochure click here.

What is Britain's Most Costly Invasive Species?

They were introduced by the Romans and are hated pests. This pest has survived nearly 2,000 years as a non-native invader and Britain's economy spends over 260 million euros each year on this invasive species. What is it? Invasive rabbits! These rabbits cause damage to crops, businesses and infrastructure. Click here to read more.

How Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Infects Cows

USDA scientists discovered the primary site where foot-and-mouth disease virus begins in cows. This break through can lead to new vaccines to help control and eradicate the harmful disease. Food-and-mouth disease is considered to be the one of the worst livestock diseases in the world. It is highly contagious and sometimes fatal. Click here to read more.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

2011 Ag Forecast Seminars

The 2011 Ag Forecast seminar meeting schedule is now available. At each seminar the University of Georgia faculty will give an overview of the upcoming season, Georgia producers or agribusiness owners will discuss what made their business successful and a regional speaker will discus locally grown, one of the hottest topic in food right now. The meeting schedule is:

January 24: Gainesville at the Georgia Mountains Center
January 25: Tifton at the Tifton Campus Conference Center
January 27: Statesboro at the Nessmith Lane Conference Center
February 9: Carrollton at the Carroll County Ag Center
February 10: Macon at the Georgia Farm Bureau Building

Click here to register.

Report on Invasiveness of Biofuel Crops by the Council of Europe

Biofuels and their invasive potential is a problem being address worldwide. A report was written for the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats 30th Meeting held by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, France. Click here to read the report 'Invasiveness of Biofuel Crops and Potential Harm to Natural Habitats and Native Species Report' (2010) pdf. The Good Management Procedures listed on page 13 is very similar to the Best Mangement Practices often recommended in the United States.

Africanized Bees Update

Press Release from Georgia Department of Agriculture

Two additional colonies of Africanized bees have been found in Georgia near the area where a man died from an attack. The colonies were destroyed immediately. Entomological tests confirmed that Africanized honeybees were responsible for the death the elderly Dougherty County man in October. It was the first record of the strain in Georgia.

Since then, the Georgia Department of Agriculture has been monitoring bee swarms, trapping and testing suspect bees. Testing of more than 90 samples identified two more colonies in the southern half of the state near the first confirmed colony.

“It is unclear how Africanized honeybees arrived in Dougherty County,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin. “The bees could have come from almost anywhere.”

Africanized bee swarms are occasionally found on cargo ships coming from South or Central America. A container from one of these ships could have been transported via rail or truck from almost any seaport. Some beekeepers from other states winter their bees in Georgia. Some commercial beekeepers that produce honey or pollinate crops move their bees to California, Florida, Texas and other states where Africanized honeybees are established. Finally, a beekeeper in the area could have purchased bees or queens that had African genes from a commercial beekeeper in another state.

“The important thing to keep in mind,” says Irvin, “is that other states and countries have learned to live with Africanized honeybees. “We need to move beyond the hype of ‘killer bees’. Just as we have learned to live with fire ants, we will learn to take certain precautions when in areas where Africanized bees may be established.”

Both the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the University of Georgia stress that beekeepers are the best defense Georgians have against Africanized honeybees. Without responsible beekeepers managing hives in the area, the density of docile European bees will decrease, leaving that area open to infestation by Africanized bees.

For more information on Africanized bees click here.

To view the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service publication on Africanized honeybees, click here.

Two Headed Turtle

A rare, two headed, spur-thighed tortoise was found in a backyard in Turkey. Click here to see a video.

Education Opportunities for Invasive Species Management

Click here to view a list of new invasive species management education opportunities for 2011.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Largest Infestation of Oriental Bittersweet

On Friday, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture found the largest infestation of oriental bittersweet in Winona, Minnesota. State officials fear its impact if the invasive plant spreads along the Mississippi River. Oriental bittersweet closely resembles the native plant, American bittersweet, with its woody vine and colorful fruit. American bittersweet is often used for holiday decorations, so be cautious and make sure you do not use Oriental bittersweet instead. Oriental bittersweet has already taken over more than two dozen states and its results can be devastating. Click here to read more.

To compare Oriental bittersweet and American bittersweet, go to our Bugwood Image Database System at www.images.bugwood.org.

Freezing Invasive Mussels

Lake Zorinsky in Omaha, Nebraska has been closed to the public and water levels will be lowered to help fight the spread of invasive mussels. The U.S. Army Corps Engineers are working to lower the water level 7 feet. This will expose the bank line and allow the corps to freeze and kill any invasive mussels that are above the water line. Click here to read more.

NECIS Launches New Website

The National Environmental Coalition on Invasive Species is a coalition of 17 non-profit organizations dedicated to fighting invasive species. They have launched a newly redesigned website and resource on invasive species. It is a source of news and information about invasive species, featuring updates on current NECIS initiatives and information on how to help improve invasive species policies across the nation. A major goal for the new site is to enhance cooperation and communication between member groups and the public. The Coalition's mission is to promote sound policy to prevent harmful invasive species from being introduced, becoming established, and spreading across the United States. Click NECIS to check out the  website

Help Us Track Japanese Chaff Flower (Achyranthes japonica)

Help us track the distribution of the invasive plant, Japanese Chaff Flower (Achyranthes japonica) in the Eastern United States. It seems to be concentrated along the lower Ohio River Valley, but has also been found in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee.
This plant grows well in forested bottomlands and poses a severe threat to forested ecosystems. It can be found growing in ditches, fencerows, and upland forests. Japanese Chaff Flower is a perennial and can form dense populations out competing native flora. The seeds are easily transported sticking to clothing or fur. It resembles the native plant, American lopseed (Phryma leptostachya). Click here to see the Species Alert pdf developed by Christopher Evans of the River to River Cooperative Weed Management Area. If you see this plant, take a picture of it and report the siting to EDDMapS.

America's Most Wanted Insects

Invasive insects are a growing threat to forests and trees in the United States. These insects are called by many "America's most wanted" and consist of the Emerald ash borer, gypsy moth and the Asian long-horned beetle. The invasive trio arrived on wooden shipping crates and have have gradually taken over. They have eaten their way through millions of trees over the years and have cost billions of dollars in tree replacement/removal, eradication and quarantine. Click here to read more.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Job Opportunity - EDDMapS Data Coordinator

Position: EDDMapS Data Coordinator
Location: University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia USA
Appointment: Grant-funded full-time position (salary $40,577 with benefits). The position is currently funded for one year with renewal contingent upon availability of continuing grant funds and satisfactory progress of employee.
Available: Closing date for receipt of applications is January 12, 2011. Position could be available as early as February 14, 2011.
Position Description: This position will be the EDDMapS Data Coordinator for the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health (http://www.bugwood.org/) at the University of Georgia-Tifton Campus. EDDMapS (http://www.eddmaps.org/) is a web-based early detection, distribution mapping and information system for invasive species. EDDMapS is a national platform used and funded by various Federal agencies and non-profit organizations. This position requires someone with excellent biological, computer/technical and communication skills. They will work closely with the Center's Technology Director and Invasive Species Coordinator to enhance and expand EDDMapS and related Center invasive species programs. They will be responsible for identifying and integrating state, regional and national datasets into EDDMapS and identifying gaps in existing distribution data. They will also develop protocols and standards for data included in EDDMapS and work with collaborators to share data between systems. This position will work with the Center Directors to write reports, grants and cooperative agreements to further expand and maintain EDDMapS and other Center programs.

They will be required to develop and deliver presentations to funding agencies and professional organizations at state, regional, and national levels. Some out-of-town and overnight travel will be required.
Qualifications: Completion of a Master's degree OR completion of a Bachelor's degree and several years of experience in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Weed Science, Botany, Agriculture, Biology or related field. Experience with Invasive Plant Management, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and/or Database Management Systems is preferred. Candidates must have good communication skills, both written and verbal, as well as the ability to work independently and with others.

Location: The University of Georgia Tifton Campus, Tifton, GA. The campus provides agricultural and environmental research, outreach and instruction with almost 100 UGA scientists working with USDA Agricultural Research Service researchers. Tifton is listed as one of the "100 Best Small Towns in America". Tifton is located 180 miles south of Atlanta and has a county population of 40,000.

Applications: Interested persons must complete official online University application at: http://www.ugajobsearch.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=57006

Please direct any and all questions to: Chuck Bargeron
Technology Director and Public Service Assistant Center for Invasive Species & Ecosystem Health University of Georgia P.O. Box 748
4601 Research Way Room 113
Tifton, GA 31793 USA
Phone (229) 386-3298

Invasive Species Herbicides Studied

For years, managers have been struggling to get rid of invasive species on Mount Tamalpais while environmentalists were concerned about the herbicides being used. In 2005, the use of herbicides were suspended. Recently, The University of California conducted at study to test herbicides used to kill invasive species and the tainting of drinking water. The study showed that herbicides would not corrupt drinking water. Click here to read more.

Tag and License Needed for Hunting Feral Pigs?

The California Department of Fish and Game recently released a questions and answers column to help keep hunters and anglers informed. DFG explains why a hunting license and tags are required to hunt and kill feral pigs, if there are any laws that prohibit the making of jewelry from empty abalone shells to sell, whether or not hunters can use tree switches and GPS collars on hounds and the legal size of lobster. Click here to read more.

Invasive Plant Science and Management Issue Available Online

Invasive Plant Science and Management - October - December 2010 (Volume 3, Issue 4) is now available online. Click here to read more.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Merry Christmas from Zoo Atlanta

Click here to view Zoo Atlanta's holiday card.

Invasive Microbial Invaders

A study by Michigan State University professor, Elena Litchman, explains why invasive microbes should not be overlooked. The public is well informed of the harms of invasive mussels and Asian carp, however, blue-green algae and other microbes can significantly impact ecosystems as well. Click here to read more.

Eradicating Invasive Mink

The American mink came to northeastern Scotland during the last century and has been driving out native species and harming ecosystems. The water vole was one of its biggest victims whose population dropped 96% since the 1950's. Because of this, Scientists and volunteers joined forces to eradicate the American mink from Scotland. The project was over 3 years and 186 volunteers helped remove 376 invasive mink. Early signs of the water vole comeback are already being seen in Scotland and some of the land is thought to be free of mink breeding. To read more about the American mink eradication project, click here.

PPQ Asks Stakeholders to Provide Feedback on Invasives

Road Map to 2015: A Strategic Plan for Plant Protection & Quarantine.  The PPQ Deputy Administrator is inviting input on the strategic plan from all stakeholders across the United States before it is finalized. Take advantage of this chance to provide your ideas on the best way to address invasive species issues in America. Click here to find a copy of the current draft for your review and the opportunity to provide comment.

New Marketing Partner for NPAA

The National Profesional Anglers Association (NPAA) will be working with a new marketing partner to educate the public on the impact of aquatic invasives. The new partner is the Great Lakes Sea Grant Network. NPAA will establish educational materials which will be used by their members to help understand and explain the problem of invasive species to the public. Click here to read more.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Cogongrass: The Weed From Hell

Cogongrass, also called "the weed from hell", continues to spread throughout the South. Originally from southeast Asia, cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) came to the United States in 1912 as packing material for a shipment of orange rootstock from Japan. Today it is designated as the seventh worst weed in the world. This invasive species is found on all continents and in 73 countries. Cogongrass is very aggressive and if left unchecked, can replace an entire ecosystem. Click here to read more.

Lake Survey Found Good News

Fourteen lakes in the Columbia Valley were recently surveyed and the results found were good news: there are no aquatic invasive species in the areas surveyed. The survey was completed by volunteers and Wildsight staff who stood on docks and raked in aquatic species. The species were then identified and the process repeated several times. The lakes are currently free of aquatic invasives, however, Wildsight's program manager says users need to continue to keep them out. Click here to read more.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Harlequin Ladybird Spotted in Ireland

The harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) was spotted twice in Ireland during the month of November. In 2007, the species was listed on Ireland's most unwanted potential invader. The harlequin ladybird varies in color and number of spots, is 6-8mm long, has brownish-red legs, and has a distinctive M or W on the back of its head. This invasive species has the potential of declining or extincting Ireland's native ladybird species. Click here to read more about the harlequin ladybird and to see what you can do.

Number of Invasive Species is Growing in Florida

The number of invasive species in Florida is growing. From weeds to feral hogs, invasives in Southwest Florida are growing out of control and are causing problems. Click here to see a news clip from NBC News 2.

Researchers Dress As Pandas

Researchers in China dress as pandas when they are working with their subjects to not spook them. Click here to see a video.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Asian Fruit Fly Eradicated

On November 24, 2010, South Africa's Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that the Asian fruit fly, Bactrocera invadens (Diptera: Tephritidae), was eradicated from South Africa. Bactrocera invadens had been detected in a trap in May of 2010, and phytosanitary measures were immediately taken to eradicate the pest. As B. invadens has not been detected in traps for more than 12 weeks, it is now considered eradicated from South Africa.

Native to Asia, B. invadens is also known to occur in other parts of Africa. It is a pest of Citrus spp. (citrus), Solanum lycopersicum (tomato), Mangifera indica (mango), Psidium guajava (guava), Musa spp. (banana), and Annona spp. (annona). Bactrocera invadens is not known to occur in the United States. The genus Bactrocera is listed as reportable in the PEST ID database (queried 12/1/10).

Climate Change to Drive Spread of Invasive Species

The Nairobi-based Global Invasions Species Programme recently did a study that indicated a combination of more extreme weather, a warmer world and higher levels of Earth warming carbon dioxide can destroy ecosystems. The report warned that climate change is expected to cause the spread of invasive species. This spread will threaten crops, forests and fisheries. Click here to read more.

Friday, December 3, 2010

International Treaty Addresses Invasive Species

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), an international treaty among 193 countries that addresses the global loss of invasive species, made a non-binding agreement to save the world's biodiversity. One of the main goals of CBD is to minimize the spread of invasive species, which is a major contributing factor to the world's large extinction of species. Studies have also proven that the spread of invasive species contributes to climate change. Click here to read more the global spread of invasive species and to watch a research video on invasive species.

Invasive Species on the Rise

Invasive species are colonizing the United States and other parts of the world. These invaders are deposited into new ecosystems, have no natural enemies or predators, grow extremely fast, kill off native species and disrupt ecosystems. This article explains how invasive species get from one place to another, if there are any solutions, how they affect people and if they are only in the U.S. Click here to read more.

Invasive Deer in England

An invasive deer called Reeves' muntijac (Muntiacus reevesi) is spreading through England and becoming a pest to gardeners. The invasive species was brought to England in the 1900's when a duke released the deer onto his estate. Reeves' muntijac is originally from China and Taiwan, barks, is pig shaped and eats ground level thickets. This invader is also responsible for a quarter of Great Britain's vehicle-deer collisions each year, totally over 47 million dollars in damages. Click here to read more.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Effective and Reasonable Invasive Species Laws

"Developing and Implementing Effective and Reasonable Invasive Species Laws." Presentation by: Kelly Kearns on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources FREE Stewardship Network Webcast next Wednesday, December 8th from 11:45am to 1pm EST on Your Computer! Click here for broadcast or more information.

NE Ohio Cooperative Weed Management Workshop

The Midwest Invasive Plant Network and Cleveland Metroparks is hosting a Northeast Ohio Cooperative Weed Management Workshop on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at North Chagrin Reservation. There are still openings for this free workshop, but you do need to register. Click on Registration form or Agenda for more information.

The Global Spread of Invasive Species

In October 2010, an agreement to save the world’s biodiversity was reached among 193 countries, members of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). One of the goals is to halt the spread of invasive species, which is a major contributing factor to the mass extinction of the world’s species. To read more click here.

OSU Fights Aquatic Invasive Species

Oregon State University's Oregon Sea Grant program received a $416,000 grant to help fight aquatic invasive species on the West Coast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded the grant to OSU, which was part of a $2 million effort to fight invasive species in lakes, oceans and rivers. Researchers from Oregon State University will work to develop a method to better predict invasive species risk and understand the impact on the environment of EDRR (early detection and rapid response). To read more, click here.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

659 Lionfish Caught in Florida Keys

During a recent lionfish derby, 659 invasive lionfish were caught in the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The lionfish derby attracts divers who try and catch as many lionfish as they can. Prizes are awarded for the number of catches. During the latest derby, 3 men caught 25 lionfish winning the events top prize of $1,000. The next lionfish derby will be held December 8, 2010. For more information, click here.

Check Out the Ecosystem Gardening Website!

This website offers great ideas on how to create wildlife habitat and protect the environment using native plants in your garden and landscape. This is also a way for every homeowner to make a difference in the fight to control and eradicate invasive species in our natural areas. When you choose native plants for your landscape, then the seeds wildlife spread from your yard will be native plants. Click here to go to the website.

Asian Carp Are Sent Back to Asia as Food

Read this article about a fish processor who is sending 44,000 pounds of Asian carp back to Asia as food. The Big River Fish Company of Illinois is one group who is using this voracious, invasive species, as a business opportunity. Click here to read the article.

Over $1M in Funding to Restore Lake Champlain's Habitat

Officials announced that over $1 Million in funding has been designated to help restore Lake Champlain's habitat. Government representatives from Quebec, New York and Vermont signed the new Lake Management Commitment making it a regional environmental effort. The funding is focused on stopping the spread of invasive species and pollution. Click here to read more and to watch a video.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Not All Berries Are Created Equal

 Not All Berries Are Created Equal is the title to a great article posted on Wildlife Garden: Redefining Beautiful's website. It explains from a gardeners perspective why it is so important to choose native and non-invasive plants for your backyard. Both gardeners and wildlife benefit from using plants native to their own area. To read the article click here.

EU Strategy to Combat Invasive Species

The Institute for European Environmental Policy has prepared a study that analyses and outlines continued development for the European Union strategy to combat invasive species. The study provides options and approaches to prevent unintentional introductions, rapid response, management strategies, restoration and financial costs. Click here to read more and view the study.

Pulling Together to Fight Invasives in Hawaii

The Hawaii Early Detection Network hopes to educate and engage communities to monitor for invasive species infesting their own neighborhoods .
The Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) and Kohala Watershed Partnership (KWP) are offering training to interested volunteers in the Kohala area. Volunteers can learn how to join in the effort to preserve the integrity of their district’s landscapes, forests, farms, and watersheds. For more information and to read the article in Hawaii 24/7 click here.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Battling Invasive Species in Ballast Water

California's Bay area battles invasive species which contaminate the ballast water discharge from cargo ships. The state has issued a deadline for shipping companies to develop a way to purify the water coming into the Bay area on their cargo ships or pay large penalties. To read the article click here.

Green Roof Plantings Should Exclude Invasive Plants

Be careful when choosing plant species for your green roof or rooftop garden. Green roof plantings which contain invasive plant species can contribute to infestations in the surrounding area. Whether wind borne or carried by wildlife such as birds and mice, the seeds and fruit of invasive plants can be easily dispersed from rooftop gardens.  To read an article on this topic, click here.

Invasives Blamed for Great Lakes Bird Die-Off

Invasive species are being blamed for the thousands of bird carcasses that have washed ashore Lake Michigan this fall. The annual bird die-off in the northern Wisconsin and Michigan area happens each fall. Over the past 15 years, more than 100,000 birds have been claimed which have been linked to the spread of invasive zebra and quagga mussels. The U.S. Geological Survey has studied mussels for over 20 years and rank them among the most destruction biological invasions in North America. To read more about the bird die-off in the Great Lakes, click here.

First Spanish Invasive Species Catalog

The Ministry of Environment has established the first Spanish invasive species catalog. The catalog is on 168 invasive animal species. The purpose of the new invasive species catalog is to eradicate the invasives because of their negative impact on the ecosystem. Click here to read more.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Invasive Mussel Found in Omaha Lake

Addison Krebs, a 13 year old Boy Scout, found a zebra mussel in Zorinsky Lake while collecting cans in Omaha, Nebraska. This is the first time zebra mussel has been found in a public lake in Nebraska. Native to Russia, these invasive mussels were introduced to the United States by international ships in the Great Lakes. Mussels produce millions of microscopic larvae, which spread by hitching rides on boats, wells and bilge water. Click here to read more.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Maritime Administration Funding $4 Million Anti-Invasive Species Project

The Maritime Administration is funding a $4 million project to help prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species, clean toxic pollution, and protect wetlands in and around the Great Lakes. The funding is part of the Obama Administration's Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Click here to read more.

Invasive Turtles Threaten Hoan Kiem Lake

Environmentalists report that invasive red ear turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) in Hoan Kiem Lake, Vietnam are threatening local native species. The public is being blamed for releasing the invasive turtles into the lake for good luck. The red ear turtles multiply very quickly, appear to be thriving and compete with the native species for food. A public awareness campaign has been launched informing the public of the threat of these invasives and has urged the public to kill them. Click here to read more.

Noxious Weed Regulations Effective December 10, 2010

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is amending the regulations governing the movement and importation of noxious weeds. The new amendments add definitions of terms used in the regulations, add details regarding the process of applying for permits used to import and move noxious weeds, add a requirement for the treatment of Niger seed and add provisions for petitioning to add a taxon to or remove a taxon from the noxious weed lists. Click here to read more.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Destin Eradicating Invasive Species

The city of Destin has recently launched an effort to remove Chinese tallowtree from the city's parks and right of ways. Tallowtree is taking over Destin's wetlands and some fear they will wipe out existing native species. The public services department is also working with the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance on a grant application to help eradicate Chinese tallowtree, cogongrass and other invasive species in the state of Florida. Click here to read more.

Invasive Cane Toad Discovered in Australia

The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) is urging residents to check their gardens for cane toads after the discovery of the invasive pest in a suburb in Australia. The resident who discovered the cane toad reported it to the Department of Agriculture and Food's Pest and Disease Information Service, which operates the cane toad hotline. To read more, click here.

Decorating with Oriental Bittersweet

Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), originally from Asia, was brought to the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental plant. Its bright orange roots and thick cluster of berries that grow along its dark brown vines make it beautiful to decorate with, especially around Thanksgiving. The trouble is that this invasive species and its little berries is an "ecological time bomb" that is waiting to spread and destroy the ecosystem. Click here to read more about the dangers of decorating and moving oriental bittersweet.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Outdoors Men & Women Can Fight Invasive Species

5 minute video created by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service and their many conservation partners to help outdoors men and women recognize invasive species and take action. Click here to see the video. 

Video "Invasion of the Snakeheads"

National Geographic and YouTube created a video on the invasive snakehead fish. Click here to watch the video.

Center's Image Database Featured

The Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health's Bugwood Image Database System is featured on several images on this USDA invasive pests website. Click here to view the website and read more on invasive pests.

Invasive Species Around the World

The United States is not the only country dealing with the problems of invasive species. This article highlights other countries who also suffer from non-native pests. Click here to see pictures and descriptions of invasive species around the world.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Gulf Coastal Plains Forests at Higher Risk of Invasion by Tallowtree

A publication 'Invasion of tallow tree into southern US forests: influencing factors and implications for mitigation' by authors  Jianbang Gan, James H. Miller, Hsiaohsuan Wang and John W. Taylor, Jr.shows that Chinese tallowtree (Triadica sebifera) has emerged as the most pervading, stand-replacing, non-native tree species in forests in the southern United States. Their study shows that tallowtree invasions are most likely to occur on lower elevation flat lands and in areas adjacent to water and roadways. Sites recently harvested or disturbed, younger stands, and private forestlands are also at greater risk of invasion by tallowtree.  Monitoring and control strategies are proposed to assist areas of the south threatened by tallowtree infestations. To view or print the article click here.

Previously Unrecorded Invasive Seaweed Found

A previously unrecorded invasive, wakame seaweed, was found in the Fal and Helford Special Area of Conservation. Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) is originally from the waters of China, Korea and Japan. It is large, brown, grows rapidly and has the potential to out compete native species. Scientists hope that the early detection of this invasive species and quick response will prevent further spread. Click here to read more and to see a picture.

The World's Ten Most Ugliest Creatures

Click here to watch a video on the world's ten most ugliest creatures.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

New Invasive Species Conference Calendar

The USDA National Agricultural Library has posted their conference calendar online. Their main conferences are below:
  • 15th Annual Southwest Florida Invasive Species Conference -- December 1, 2010
  • Invasive Species Advisory Committee -- December 7-9, 2010
  • Global Conference on Entomology (GCE 2011) -- March 5-9, 2011
  • 15th Australasian Vertebrate Pest Conference -- June 20-23, 2011
  • 51st Annual Meeting of the Aquatic Plant Management Society -- July 24-27, 2011
  • Seventh International Conference on Marine Bioinvasions -- August 25-25, 2011
For more information, click here.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Redbay Ambrosia Beetle Detected in Alabama

According to forestry officials with the Alabama Forestry Commission, two beetles trapped in Mobile County, just north of Grand Bay, have been confirmed as redbay ambrosia beetles (Xyleborus glabratus). The specimens were collected and identified by Dr. John Riggins from Mississippi State University and confirmed by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Section. This is the first confirmation of the presence of the beetle in Alabama.

The beetle carries a fungus that causes a destructive disease called “laurel wilt.” The fungus moves into the tree, and infects the sapwood. As this fungus spreads, it clogs the vascular system of the tree, causing it to wilt. The infected tree will exhibit wilting foliage that is reddish or purplish in color. Eventually, the entire crown wilts and reddens. In the latter part of the infestation, toothpick-like tubes appear on the trunk of the tree caused by fine sawdust and frass seeping through the entrance holes. If a cross-section of the main stem is viewed, it will show black discoloration of the sapwood. Approximately two weeks after the initial attack, the host tree dies from the disease.

Redbay (Persea borbonia) is the most susceptible tree, but sassafras, camphor and avocado are also known to succumb from laurel wilt disease. Other possible host trees in the Laurel family (Lauraceae) that may die from this disease are pond spice, pondberry, and swamp bay.

The public can help prevent the spread of the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt disease by following these simple suggestions:

  • Become familiar with the signs of laurel wilt disease and redbay ambrosia beetle and be on the lookout for evidence of the pest or disease on your trees.
  • Use local firewood only – Redbay firewood should not be transported. Do not transport firewood of any kind from other states because destructive pests and diseases, such as redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt, can hitchhike into Alabama on infested firewood.
  • Do not transport host trees (redbay, swamp bay, avocado, sassafras, pond spice, pondberry, and others in the Lauraceae family) unless purchased from a registered nursery.
  • Avoid spreading the beetle and pathogen to new areas - Wood or chips from infested trees should not be transported out of the local area where the trees were found. Dead redbay or other Lauraceous tree species cut in residential areas should be chipped and left onsite as mulch, or disposed of as locally as possible.
For more information contact your local Alabama Forestry Commission office or visit your website at www.forestry.alabama.gov/RedbayAmbrosiaBeetle.aspx.

How to Create a CWMA Workshop in Ohio

 The Midwest Invasive Plant Network and Cleveland Metroparks are holding a Northeast Ohio Cooperative Weed Management Workshop on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at North Chagrin Reservation. The workshop introduces Cooperative Weed Management Areas and provides valuable advice and experience on how to organize, develop, and benefit from cross-boundary cooperation and shared resources. For the registration form click here. To view or print the agenda click here.

Invasive Mussel May Have Arrived in Flathead Lake

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced that microscopic larvae suspected to be from exotic mussels may be in 4 of 17 plankton samples collected from the 200 square mile Flathead Lake this summer. The aquatic invasive species director for Montana FWP plans to send divers into Flathead Lake within the next several days to look for adult mussels. Invasive mussels hitch rides on anything from fishing gear to boats and travel by land from other infected waters. Mussels reproduce and spread quickly, attach to hard surfaces, clog irrigation systems, can foul boat motors, disrupt water purification systems and impact fisheries. To read more, click here.

Monday, November 15, 2010

$1.7 Million in Grants go to Buffalo State College’s Great Lakes Center

 $1.7 million in grants have been awarded to Buffalo State College’s Great Lakes Center to research Lake Erie pollution, the lake’s overall health and the water’s invasive species. The grants were awarded through the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. To read the article in BuffaloNews.com click here.

Free Public Lecture on Invasive Species in Ohio

Mary Gardiner, assistant professor of entomology at the Ohio State University Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center in Wooster will speak at 7:30 p.m. Thursday on Invasive Species. This lecture is part of Ashland University's 2010-11 Environmental Lecture Series and will cover the impact of invasive plants, aphids and lady beetles on Ohio's agricultural landscapes.It is a free public lecture and will be held in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center Auditorium. For more information click here.

"Kill It and Grill It!"

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, a 3,900 square mile under water national park, is licensing scuba divers to exterminate lionfish in "no take" areas where spearing and fishing aren't allowed. Scientist want people to kill as many of this invasive species as possible. Originally from the Far East, the invasive lionfish eats up nearly everything in it's path and has spread from the Bahamas and Florida up to the Carolinas. Click here to read more, watch a video and see pictures.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Minimize the Impacts Of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid

A 32 page booklet by the USDA Forest Service, "Eastern Hemlock Forests: Guidelines to Minimize the Impacts of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid", is available online and to print out as a pdf. To see or print the booklet click here.

22nd USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species

The 22nd USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species will be held January 11‐14, 2011 at the Loews Annapolis Hotel in Annapolis, Maryland. To see the preliminary agenda and details on how to submit a poster click here.

Mediterranean Basin Fish Threatened By Invasives

The Forest Technology Center of Catalonia led an international team of researchers on the first large scale study of threats to Mediterranean fish. The study showed that the biggest threats to the fish were invasive species along with over exploitation of the water. Inevitably, this could lead some species of Mediterranean fish to extinction. Click here to read more.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

You Want Me to Wear What?

Louisiana and New York are teaming up against the Nutria, a large non-native rodent. Wetland habitats are bearing the brunt of the damage caused by this invasive pest. A November 21st fashion show is planned featuring clothing and jewelry made from the fur and teeth of the animal. To read the article by Kim Brown in the Brooklyn Paper click here.

Pathways of Invasive Plant Spread

While this research was done in Alaska the information in the article from Invasive Plant Science and Management can easily apply to anyone who uses hay or straw from other areas. To read the article click here.

"Night of the Invasive Plants" by Ken Lonnquist

Click here to go to the Invasive Plants Association of Wisconsin's website and listen to Ken Lonnquist's song "Night of the Invasive Plants". It was written to celebrate the first Wisconsin Plants Out of Place Conference in March of 2001. Ken Lonquist, a song-writer and folk-singer from Madison, was hired to close out the packed conference (600 people attended) with a short concert.

Stop the Invasion

Experiments in Montana have shown that an SUV or truck driving on non-paved roads can pick up as many as 176 seeds in a 50-mile trip. ATVs can pick up as many as 200,000 seeds on a 48 mile off-road trip. Although not all of the seeds were from invasive plants, the problem is that hundreds of them were. To read the rest of the article by Dan Hilburn click here.

EDRR Success in Hawaii

The Hawai'i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has resulted in eradication of a highly invasive pest called Little Fire Ant (LFA). The ant was detected a year ago, delivers painful stings and was found infesting a half acre of a farm. The HDOA used a special experimental ant bait to eradicate the invasive pest. This new bait enabled treatment to be put in trees and vegetation where the ants nest. Because the little fire ants were detected early, pest control methods were a success. Click here to read more.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Check Out the Updated CoastScapes Website

Coastscapes, Native Plants, Landscaping for Wildlife, Invasives, Water Quality and Conservation are all topics to choose from on the CoastScapes website. Each main topic then provides a menu of related topics to choose from. For example, on the Native Plants menu there is a Coastal Plains Native Plant search engine as one of the choices. To check it out click here.

Stink Bug Population Explodes

Along the east coast this summer, the brown marmorated stink bug population exploded. This invasive insect, originally from Asia, is a major agricultural pest and a minor aggravating household pest. They have been spotted in New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia and more. Researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working to find a natural enemy to fight the invasive insect. Click here to read more and to watch a video clip.

Professional Anglers Join Invasive Species Fight

Wildlife Forever and the National Professional Anglers Association have joined forces in the battle against invasive species. By enlisting in the battle together, they hope that other anglers will join the fight and learn how to "Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!"
This is the kind of action which can help to bring everyone on board. We all need to take action and work together to protect the rivers, lakes and other natural areas we love or they will be gone, taken over by invasive species. To read more click here.

Asian Carp Barricades Completed

Barricades were completed along the Des Plaines River and I&M (Illinois and Michigan) Canal to prevent invasive species, including Asian carp, from migrating into Lake Michigan. The US Army Corps of Engineers designed and constructed the project which was funded through the U.S. Army Environmental Protection Agency. This project was part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. To read more click here.

Invasive Hemlock Insect Found in Kittery Point, Maine

Maine Forest Service entomologists announced that a new population of an invasive insect that damages hemlocks has been discovered in southern Maine. The insect is called elongate hemlock scale and can also damage fir trees. An invasive insect called hemlock woolly adelgid has already been causing damage to hemlocks. The addition of another invasive insect attacking hemlocks can accelerate the damage and mortality of the trees. To read more click here.

Help Collect Invasive Plant Best Management Practices from Across the U.S.

Cal-IPC is collecting documents on invasive plant Best Management Practices (BMPs)  Can you recommend additional documents that could be helpful?  This is part of a program to develop “stop the spread” BMPs and trainings for a variety of audiences. Email documents to Doug Johnson dwjohnson@cal-ipc.org.

New York Forests Threatened By Invasive Insects

New York forests have recently been threatened by several invasive insects that kill trees. These insects, also referred to as "the holy trinity of invasive species", are the emerald ash borer, the eastern longhorned beetle and the hemlock woolly adelgid. To respond to these invasions, the New York Department of Enviornmental Conservation (DEC) instituted several new regulations to limit the movement of firewood in the state. The import of firewood is prohibited unless it is first treated with insecticides. Local firewood can be transported no more than 50 miles from its natural area. And all firewood must be accompanied by a receipt. These regulations were all made in response to the invasive insects threatening New York's forests. Click here to read more.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

North American Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Short Course

The 2011 North American Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Short Course (NAIPSC) is three days of intense instruction and learning for those interested in the basics of invasive plant ecology and management. The course combines classroom presentations, site visits, instructor-led discussion sessions and hands on workshops. The NAIPSC date are July 6-8, 2011. For more information on the short course, click here.

GA-EPPC Presentations Are Now Posted

Presentations from the Symposium Sponsored by: The Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council on November 4, 2010 at Zoo Atlanta are now posted. Speakers include keynote speaker Dr. Damon Waitt, Senior Botanist and Director of the Native Plant Information Network at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin; Dr. David J. Moorhead, Professor of Silviculture at the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources and the Co-Director of the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health; Matt Nespeca, Marketing Manager for Nufarm Americas Inc.; Lee Patrick, Co-Owner of Invasive Plant Control; Jimmie Cobb, Forestry & IVM Sales Specialist for Dow AgroSciences; John and Lamyrl Atkinson owners of Towaliga Plants in Juliette, Georgia; and Karan Rawlins, Invasive Plants Coordinator at Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health at University of Georgia. Click here to view the presentations.

Teeg Stouffer Talks About Invasive Species

In the video, Teeg Stouffer focuses on invasive fish: bighead and silver carp, common carp, yellow bass and white perch. He discusses what problems they cause and how to prevent their spread by never dumping aquariums into bodies of water and to not intentionally move fish from one place to another. Click here to watch the video clip.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Invasive Species: A Challenge for California

The California Invasive Species Advisory Committee put together a video entitled Invasive Species: A Challenge for California. The video is an overview of California's biggest agricultural threat. Click here to watch the video.

Watch the Playing Smart Against Invasive Species Videos

Videos 'Playing Smart Against Invasive Species' produced by the USDA Forest Service are wonderful resources for education and public outreach. These videos explain how people can enjoy the great outdoors and avoid spreading invasive species along the way. You can choose videos ranging from 6 to 27 minutes in length. To watch and to share the Playing Smart videos click here.

GA-EPPC Newsletter Available

The Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council Newsletter includes a letter from the President, Cynthia Taylor; a list of Board Members for 2011; a recap of some of the presentations delivered over the last year; and an update on the Non-native Invasive Plant List. Click here to read more or to print a copy.

Protecting Parks from Invasives

Over 30 University of Vermont students and members of the community worked together to remove invasive species from the Charlotte Park and Wildlife Refuge. The park is over 290 acres and made up of diverse wetlands and woodlands. The park does not have the money to hire people to cut down and get rid of unwelcome invasive species and were very grateful for the help. The volunteers removed glossy buckthorn and Japanese honeysuckle from the park. This will enable the native plants to thrive again and will improve the wildlife habitat of the park. Click here to read more.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Michigan Fights Oriental Bittersweet

The Nature Conservancy funded $700,000 to the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to fight invasive species on the Lake Michigan shore from Indiana to the Mackinac Bridge. As part of the grant, the Land Conservancy just finished fighting oriental bittersweet on Mount Baldhead. Oriental bittersweet is an aggressive vine that pushes out native species and can kill small shrubs and damage trees. The invasive species is easily spread by birds feeding on its berries. Click here to read more.

Minnesota Restricts Firewood

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding deer hunters that only firewood purchased from a DNR approved vendor or from a state park may be brought onto any DNR administered lands. Visitors must keep their firewood receipt, bundle label or DNR approved vendor ticket to prove where they purchased the wood. A $100 fine may be given to visitors who bring in unapproved firewood. This firewood restriction is to help prevent the spread of an invasive beetle called emerald ash borer. The beetle kills trees, tunnels through the wood and cuts off the tree's water supply and nutrients. Click here to read more.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Converting Invasive Plants into Fuel

The Center for Invasive Plant Management at Montana State University and the Missouri River Watershed coalition are investigating a project that will convert invasive plants into fuel. The Center at MSU was recently awarded $1 million from the Natural Resources Conservation Service to develop innovative ideas for for managing invasive plants. Invasive plants cause ecological and economic problems, choke river systems, reduce water quality and quantity, restrict irrigation access and degrade wildlife habitat. The Missouri River is 2,540 miles long and drains around one-sixth of North America. In the Western United States, over one million acres are infested with Russian olive and salcedar alone. These two species could supply biomass far into the future. Click here to read more.

7th Graders Learn about Invasives During Ecology Day

Northbrook Junior High School students in Northbrook, Illinois helped clear out invasive buckthorn during Ecology Day. The students worked with Park District employees to cut down buckthorn near the Chicago river. During the half day of activities, students also participated in river and pond water quality tests and identified macro-invertebrates. Click here to read more.

Invasive Species Worth Admiring

Invasive species worth admiring? Yes! This article takes a minute to admire invasive species as living creatures, not just the invaders that mess up the ecosystem and kill off native species. Dandelions, pythons, Asian carp and wild boars are only a few of the invasive species discussed. Click here to read about and admire invasive species.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

$1 Million Grant to Turn Invasive Plants into Biofuel Is Awarded to MSU

Converting invasive plants to fuel is being investigated by partners in a regional project headed by the Center for Invasive Plant Management at Montana State University and the Missouri River Watershed Coalition. They were awarded $1 million from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grant program, to develop ideas for managing invasive plants and work with public and private partners in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming Colorado and Nebraska. To read the full article click here.

Call for Papers - Annual Southeast EPPC Conference 2011

The joint meeting of the 2nd Kentucky Invasive Species Conference and the 13th Annual Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council conference will encompass topics related to the research, management, outreach, education, and policy of invasive species in the eastern and central regions of the United States. We welcome contributions in the following major areas:
1. Ecology of invasive species and their impact on ecosystem functions and processes
2. Invasive species management
3. Invasive species education and policy
For more information on Submission of Abstracts click here.

WOC Urges Government Ratification to Stop Aquatic Invasives

According to the Wold Ocean Council (WOC), cargo ships transport between 7,000-10,000 aquatic species each day across oceans. This creates a major pathway for aquatic invasive species to spread. This being said the WOC has called for an urgent ratification of the Ballast Water Convention that was approved in 2004. The international treaty has not been enforced yet due to the lack of government ratification. One ratified, the Ballast Water Convention will enter 30 nationals, representing 35% of the world's merchant shipping. Click here to read more.

Antiguan Racer Making a Comeback

The world's rarest snake, the Antiguan racer, is making a comeback after being highly endangered for years. The snake was killed off by invasive mongoose and invasive Eurasian black rats, leaving only 50 Antiguan racers in the world. However, six conservation groups joined together to increase the snake's population. Now, 500 Antiguan racers exist and its territory has expanded to other islands. Click here to read more and view pictures.

Proposals Requested for Grant to Develop Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention

Special Regional Competition Funded Through Maryland Sea Grant College Program. The Maryland Sea Grant College, in partnership with the Sea Grant College programs in the Mid-Atlantic states, seeks proposals for a special 18-month (Mar 15, 2011 - Sep 14, 2012) funding cycle. This Request for Proposals seeks to support ecological and social science research to develop an aquatic invasive species prevention demonstration project for the mid-Atlantic region. To read more or submit your proposal online click here.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

The Backyard Invasion Connection

As home gardeners we can make environmentally sound choices by becoming aware of the issue of biological invasions and understanding the connection between invasions and our own backyards. To read the rest of the excellent article, 'History of Southeastern Invasive Plants' in the American Nurseryman by Hallie Dozier of Louisiana State University click here.

'Dirty Jobs' Confronts Invasive Species Tonight

Tonight on the Discovery Channel show 'Dirty Jobs', Mike Rowe will learn to wrangle the creepy and destructive invasive species, sea lampreys. Lampreys invaded the Great Lakes during the 1920's. They are eel-like creators who have toothy, suction cup mouths that attach themselves to the side of fish, saw holes through the skin and feed on the fish's insides. These invasives had nearly destroyed several species by the 1950's. Tonight, Rowe and his crew will catch, transport and sort the lampreys by gender. After which, they will be poisoned or the males sterilized and released. Click here to read more and tune in tonight to watch the episode!

Monday, November 1, 2010

No Borders for Six Rivers CISMA

Six Rivers Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area located in Florida's Panhandle was established in 2009 as a network to address the growing threat of invasive species in Northwest Florida. But they did not stop with the six original counties in Florida. They have grown to include three counties across the border in Alabama. Congratulations to Florida and Alabama for truly working across borders. Are there other Cooperative management areas out there working across state or national borders to address invasive species issues? I would love to hear from you and post your story on our blog. Email your story to Karan krawlins@uga.edu.

EDDMapS Training Workshop at Local High School


The Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health taught an EDDMapS training workshop at Tift County High School last Tuesday. Fifteen AP Biology students participated in the workshop. Karan Rawlins, the Center's Invasive Species Coordinator, first showed the class a powerpoint on the most common invasive species in the area. Then, she took the class outside to find and map invasive species. Students found Chinese privet and honeysuckle all over the school campus. Lastly, Rawlins taught the students to upload the information into EDDMapS (www.eddmaps.org). The workshop was a great success and the students were surprised to learn of the many invasives in their "own backyard". To learn more about EDDMapS workshops contact Karan Rawlins at 229-386-3298 or krawlins@uga.edu.