The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council offers tips to prevent the spread of invasive species...

Governor Mark Gordon

Wyo4News Staff, [email protected] [PRESS RELEASE]

February 22, 2024 : The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) reminds citizens of the Cowboy State to be on the lookout for invasive species with six tips to prevent the spread of unwanted plants and insects. This reminder follows Governor Mark Gordon's announcement that February 26-March 3, 2024 will be recognized as National Invasive Species Awareness Week.

 

The goal of Awareness Week, announced in January, is to share information about invasive species and actions the community can take to protect the environment and themselves, whether by boat, on foot or at a picnic. the park.

"As people head outside this summer, we want them to know that a little prevention goes a long way toward keeping Wyoming wild and beautiful," said WWPC President Donley Darnell. "Invasive insects, noxious weeds and plant diseases cost the United States approximately $40 billion annually in damage to our lakes, forests and farms." They can damage our state's economy, food supply, environment and in some cases even public health endanger.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, invasive species pose a major threat to native wildlife and ecosystems, and nearly 42 percent of endangered or threatened species are at risk due to their spread. Although often unintentional, humans can spread invasive species with anything that moves, such as boots and shoes, tires, boats, firewood, pets, horses, etc.

For outdoor enthusiasts, protecting your favorite natural space from invasive species doesn't take much.

Here are six simple steps you can take to stop the spread of invasive species:

1. Clean your shoes, clothing, backpacks and pets before and after exploring and stay on designated trails.
2. Clean your horse's hooves and feed him certified weed-free hay before your adventure.
3. Clean, drain and dry your boat and fishing gear to deter water hitchhikers .
4. Do not move firewood . Buy it where you burn it and buy certified, heat-treated firewood. If permitted, you can also collect wood on site.
5. Before traveling to new areas, inspect and clean your trailers, ATVs and RVs with water or compressed air to remove mud, plant debris and hidden pests.
6. Take the PlayCleanGo Pledge and invite your family and friends to do the same at PlayCleanGo.org .

Following these steps will do wonders for protecting the places you love. You can do even more by educating yourself and your fellow outdoorsmen about invasive species, especially those found in your area. Your local weed and pest department is a trusted source for the latest protection methods and all the important news in your area. Every preventative measure, no matter how small, helps, and combining small steps at home with the tremendous efforts of local land managers creates a huge, lasting impact.

To learn more about WWPC and how you can help keep Wyoming wild and beautiful, visit wyoweed.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram .

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