Over 100 Invasive Species Pester Pennsylvania with 1500 Negative Impacts — Report

According to a report, Pennsylvania has over 100 invasive species with at least 1500 negative impacts.

Over the years, Pennsylvania has been plagued by a variety of invasive species, from spotted lanternflies that colonized bridges in Pittsburgh, to emerald ash borers that decimated the state's timber supply.

The Pennsylvania Governor's Invasive Species Council released a report on Monday that calls for a statewide response to the threat posed by invasive species, including the creation of several regionally focused programs to counter the spread of invasive insects, plants, pathogens, and animals.

100 Invasive Species, 1500 Negative Impacts

In a survey by the council, more than 600 respondents shared their personal encounters with invasive species. More than 100 invasive species were found to have had nearly 1,500 negative effects, according to the participants.

Invasive species are frequently found in parks, forests, and close to streams and rivers, according to the survey respondents. Examples include zebra mussels taking over Raystown Lake, autumn olive displacing or surpassing native field plants, and Japanese knotweed encroaching on riverbanks.

According to Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the survey results show that Pennsylvanians are concerned about preventing invasive species from destroying their way of life and our stunning ecosystem. It is crucial that the team act on this survey in order to fulfill the obligation of protecting the commonwealth's natural resources. The council was given the responsibility to minimize the detrimental economic, ecological, and human health impacts of invasive species.

Respondents expressed concern that invasive species, along with some official state wildlife and plants such as the brook trout and eastern hemlock, would hasten the decline of native species.

Others were worried that the dead ash trees left behind by emerald ash borers would encourage the growth of invasive shrubs, impair visibility for drivers, and pose a safety risk. Additionally, locals were concerned that invasive species might spread out too far and begin to obstruct access to lakes, neighborhood parks, and hiking trails.

Damages in Pennsylvania

Many people have already reported invasive species harming agricultural crops.

In order to pilot a small-scale version of the Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) program, the state collaborated with the Council and the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts.

Federal funds totaling $210,000 will fund the pilot, which will begin in July and cover 13 northwest counties. According to a press release, it will carry out practical removal projects for invasive species as well as educational outreach to aid in preventing their introduction.

Numerous survey participants indicated their support for a statewide PRISM initiative aimed at decreasing invasive species problems.

Gov. Josh Shapiro stated that his proposed budget includes $3 million for the spotted lanternfly as well as other invasive species as well as $3 million for the Department of Environmental Protection to address emergencies and disasters, Trib Live reports.

Eradicating Invasive Species

Although eradicating invasive species have proven to be a challenging endeavor, there are also a few success stories. For example, the National Park Service has listed a few of their success stories, including driving the invasive spotted knapweed to decline in Big Hole National Battlefield and keeping invasive mussels at bay.