People are primarily responsible for the introduction and spread of invasive species, but that means we are also a major part of the solution. The good news is, it is much easier to avoid spreading invasive species than it is to deal with them once they’ve arrived.
Like all plants and animals, invasive species have their own ways of getting from place to place through methods like producing wind- or water-dispersed seeds, attracting animals using tasty fruits, and by using their wings, legs, or fins to move about. There isn’t much we can do to stop those natural occurrences, but there are simple steps we can all take to help minimize the spread of invasive species as much as possible.
The best way to take a part in preventing the spread is to think of invasive species as unwanted hitchhikers. They love to hitch a ride and can easily be transported by attaching themselves directly to anything they come into contact with, like boats, hiking boots, clothing, pets, and gear. That means we need to be sure to practice Play, Clean, Go and Clean, Drain, Dry every time we visit lands and waters.
Invasive species can also be present within materials that we move, such as firewood, soil, and nursery plants. Once they’re along for the ride, they can be transported to new areas where they can cause irreversible harm. It’s important to make sure anything we’re moving is free of invasives, that the plants we buy are native, and to follow Don’t Move Firewood and NYSDEC guidelines of sourcing firewood within 50 miles of where we intend to burn it.
The Adirondack PRISM has its share invasive species, but it is still largely uninvaded compared to the rest of the country. The majority of our lakes are uninvaded, land-based invasives are isolated to pockets of our forestland, and, most importantly, there are growing numbers of people and organizations working together to keep it that way. You can do your part by always practicing Play, Clean, Go; Clean, Drain, Dry; and Don’t Move Firewood. If you’d like to give back even more, consider signing up for one of APIPP’s volunteer programs.
