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NY Declares War on Invasive Species: Residents Urged to Act

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -on-invasive-species-residents-urged-to-act.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 12:26 GMT by WCAX3
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

ALBANY, N.Y. (February 26, 2026) - As National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) draws to a close, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) is intensifying its call to action, urging residents and visitors to recognize the critical threat posed by non-native species to the state's delicate ecosystems and burgeoning economy. Running from February 22-28, 2026, NISAW serves as a vital platform for raising public consciousness and fostering collaborative efforts to combat the spread of these harmful organisms.

"Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, and pathogens that cause harm to our environment, economy, and public health," stated DEC Commissioner Sean Mahoney in a press briefing earlier today. "They outcompete native species for resources, disrupt ecological balance, and can inflict significant economic damage. Preventing the introduction and spread of these species is a shared responsibility, and NYS DEC is committed to working with partners and the public to protect New York's natural resources."

The issue of invasive species is not new, but the scale and rate of introduction and spread have accelerated in recent decades, fueled by global trade, travel, and climate change. New York, with its diverse landscapes - from the Adirondack Mountains and Catskill Forests to the Great Lakes and Long Island's coastal ecosystems - is particularly vulnerable. The DEC estimates that controlling and managing invasive species currently costs New York State tens of millions of dollars annually, a figure that is expected to rise without increased preventative measures.

A Wide Range of Invaders

The impacts of invasive species are remarkably diverse. Aquatic environments are severely threatened by plants like Eurasian watermilfoil, which forms dense mats that impede navigation, recreation, and harm fish populations, and zebra mussels, which filter out plankton, disrupting the food chain and clogging infrastructure. Terrestrial environments face challenges from species like the Emerald Ash Borer, devastating ash tree populations, and Japanese Knotweed, aggressively overtaking forests and fields. Pathogens, such as Beech Leaf Disease, are also gaining ground, weakening and killing iconic trees.

The economic consequences extend beyond direct control costs. Invasive species can reduce agricultural yields, damage forestry resources, and decrease property values. Tourism and recreation, vital components of New York's economy, also suffer as invasive species degrade natural beauty and recreational opportunities. For example, the proliferation of spiny waterflea impacts fishing and boating, costing the state significant revenue.

Taking Action: What You Can Do

The DEC is emphasizing that preventing the spread of invasive species requires a concerted effort from everyone. Simple actions can make a substantial difference. Key preventative measures include:

• Clean Boats and Gear: After each use, thoroughly clean boats, trailers, fishing gear, and other equipment to remove any aquatic plants or animals. Pay particular attention to crevices and hidden areas.
• Inspect and Remove: Regularly inspect properties and remove any identified invasive plants. Proper disposal methods are crucial - do not compost invasive plant material.
• Firewood Restrictions: Avoid moving firewood long distances. Transporting firewood can inadvertently introduce invasive insects and diseases to new areas. Buy it where you burn it.
• Report Sightings: Report sightings of invasive species to the DEC through the iMapInvasives online mapping tool ([ https://www.imapinvasives.org/ ]). This data helps track the spread of invasive species and prioritize management efforts.
• Use Native Plants: When landscaping, choose native plants over non-native species. Native plants are better adapted to the local environment and provide essential habitat for native wildlife.

Looking Ahead: Enhanced Monitoring and Research

The DEC is also investing in enhanced monitoring programs and research to better understand the distribution and impact of invasive species. This includes utilizing advanced technologies like drone imagery and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to detect invasive species early on. The department is also collaborating with universities and research institutions to develop innovative control methods and explore biological control options - using natural enemies to manage invasive populations.

"We are committed to a long-term, proactive approach to managing invasive species," Commissioner Mahoney affirmed. "This requires ongoing investment in prevention, early detection, rapid response, and sustainable management strategies. By working together, we can protect New York's invaluable natural resources for future generations."

For more information on invasive species in New York, including identification guides, prevention tips, and reporting resources, visit the DEC's website: [ https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9580.html ].