Invasive Species Week Hopes to Educate on Dangers
Governor Jay Inslee has declared February 26th through March 4th as Invasive Species Awareness Week.
Executive Coordinator of the Washington Invasive Species Council Justin Bush said, “The goal is to raise awareness of the threat that invasive species pose to our state and to help educate state residents on how they can help prevent the spread and introduction of invasive species in their local communities.”
A study that was released recently indicated that if left unchecked, invasive species could cause $1.3 billion in damage to the state and cost 8,000 jobs.
Bush said one of the most common invasive species in Eastern Washington is yellow star thistle which can hurt livestock either by disease if eaten, or by taking away other more desirable food. That’s why it’s critical that anyone who sees noxious weeds, or invasive pests reach out and tell the Council.
“Invasive species truly require a group effort to adequately manage them. Invasive species and noxious weeds don’t respect property boundaries or borders and they don’t necessarily follow management.”
You can actually download an app on your smart phone to help the Invasive Species Council. It’s available for both Android and iPhones by searching “WA Invasives.”
If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.
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