What are invasive Species?

 
 
 
 

Invasive Species are plants, animals, or insects that:

  • Are not native to an ecosystem

  • Cause significant harm to the environment, economy, or human health

  • Are introduced accidentally or by being planted in gardens and landscaping

Why are they a problem?

  • They compete with native species and decrease diversity

    Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of threatened and endangered species in the United States

  • Invasive species can cause damage to buildings and other infrastructure

    Zebra Mussels alone caused $1.12 billion in infrastructure damage

  • Many invasive species are harmful to agricultural land and crops

    Crop production losses in the United States are estimated to be $40 billion every year from invasive pests

  • Invasive plants can cause water quality issues