(by Willa Coroka)

February 24th-28th is National Invasive Species Awareness Week!

Invasive species can be a bit overwhelming (have you ever wrestled Asiatic bittersweet!?). Fortunately, there are tips you can implement into your life to help reduce invasive plants and invasive pests alike (think: jumping worms and spotted lantern flies).

Tip one: Ensure you aren’t accidentally purchasing invasive plants! Almost every invasive plant in this region was once a sought-after specimen for the yard and garden. While many invasive plants have been removed from the consumer market, the introduction of online sourcing has made it possible to buy invasives such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) without even leaving the comfort of the couch. Check with UNH Extension for any plants you think might be problematic of prohibited before purchasing.

Tip two: Practice wild hygiene. Be cognizant of where your boots, your bag, and your boat have been before going somewhere new. Seeds and cocoons are quick to travel on shoes and carry in-carry out principles apply not only to wrappers but to organic substances like fruit cores, pits, and peels too. Rinse boots on-site at the end of every hike and take your uneaten food remains home for disposal. If you transport your boat to numerous bodies of water, be sure to wash them thoroughly between locations to avoid the possible transmission of aquatic seeds and hitchhiking organisms.

Tip three: Buy local; burn local! Avoid spreading invasive insects by purchasing local firewood and resisting the urge to transport it to different environments for campfire use. Support your favorite campsite by asking who they recommend or buy directly from them. If you end up having extra, pay it forward by leaving it onsite for the next visitor rather than transporting it elsewhere.

Tip four: Volunteer and spread the word! There are frequent opportunities throughout the year to assist with invasive plant removals or invasive insect monitoring. Nature Groupie is an online hub for upcoming removal events with smaller local clean-ups occurring throughout the warmer months listed on community calendars and at wildlife sanctuaries. Attend one to learn how to identify invasive species, connect with others who are committed to making a difference, and get involved through various means! From sharing information about a removal event to physically pulling up a problem plant, together we can reduce invasive species, spread awareness, and protect our natural environment for wildlife and for people.