National Invasive Species Awareness Week

National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) is scheduled for February 24 – 28, 2025. A major new United Nations-backed report has found that invasive species cost the world at least $423 billion every year as they drive plant and animal extinctions, threaten food security, and exacerbate environmental catastrophes worldwide.

Now more than ever, our lands and waters need a nationwide campaign to spread awareness about invasive species. Participate in national events to raise awareness and identify solutions to invasive species issues at local, state, tribal, regional, and national scales. Locate an invasive species event in your state or county and plan your own event using the NISAW Toolkit - where and when it works for you!

Here are 9 ways you can help to raise awareness:

1. Learn about invasive species, especially those found in your region. Your county extension office and the National Invasive Species Information Center are both trusted resources.
2. Clean your hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles, and other gear to stop invasive species from hitching a ride to a new location. Learn more at PlayCleanGo.org
3. Avoid dumping aquariums or live bait into waterways. Learn more at Habitattitude.org
4. Don't move firewood - instead, buy it where you'll burn it, or gather on site when permitted. Learn more at DontMoveFirewood.org and Hungry Pests.
5. Use forage, hay, mulch and soil that are certified as "weed free."
6. Plant only non-invasive plants in your garden and remove any known invaders.
7. Report new or expanded invasive species outbreaks to authorities. Here is a state-by-state list of contacts
8. Volunteer to help remove invasive species from public lands and natural areas.
9. Ask your political representatives at the state, local and national level to support invasive species control efforts.