Inslee Highlights Need To Prevent and Stop Invasive Species This Week

Now through Saturday, March 3^rd, is Invasive Species Awareness Week in Washington.  Invasive species have many different forms; animals, plants, pathogens or even insects that are non-native to the area.  Justin Bush with the Washington Invasive Species Council told the Washington Ag Network these species will damage natural resources, agriculture as well as the overall economy, nationally and in Washington.

“Nationally, we know that invasive species cost over $137 billion in annual costs, and that’s from crop damage loss of fish and wildlife and damage to forests and that also includes management.”

As far as Washington is concerned, in 2017, 23 different species were either introduce or allowed to spread costing the state $1.3 billion.  Bush said we all have a roll when it comes to stopping the spread of invasive species across Washington.  He said that start by not becoming a vector.

“Cleaning your hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, outdoor vehicles and other equipment like that before you venture into the outdoors, before you go to a park or a natural area so you’re not bringing something to that location.  And then also cleaning everything once you’re done.”

Click Here to learn more about Invasive Species Awareness Week, or to read the proclamation by Governor Inslee.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com