Invasive Species Pose $1 Billion Threat to Washington

A new report from the State of Washington says that invasive species, of both plant and animal varieties, pose a $1.3 billion threat to the state and could cost up to 8,000 jobs without current prevention and control efforts.

Justin Bush, Executive Coordinator of the Invasive Species Council, said the biggest threat is to agriculture.

“For example, noxious weeds can displace crops reducing yield in harvest. In addition, invasive animals may be feeding on crops or impacting the landscape so that the crops no longer grow well.”

If the invasive species were able to spread in agriculture, it could cost the industry $500 million and 4,000 jobs.

Bush noted that there are several different groups that are involved in this fight.

“With this amount of revenue and jobs on the line, we can’t afford to ignore this important issue. This needs to be a partnership between state natural resource agencies, the public and business owners to all work together.

The Washington Invasive Species Council's website has the full report available.

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