Protecting Washington's Environment and Economy from Harmful Invasive Species

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July 16, 2026  in  Olympia
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Invasive Species Awareness Week Was February 23-27

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New Guide to Combat Ash Tree-Destroying Insect

A new guide to help Washington landowners and land managers detect and limit the spread of an invasive, wood-boring beetle that attacks and kills ash trees is now available thanks to the collaborative effort of state and federal agencies. Native to eastern Asia, the emerald ash borer first appeared in the United States in 2002 […]

May 19, 2026Read More

Governor Declares Invasive Species Awareness Week in Washington

OLYMPIA–Gov. Bob Ferguson, in partnership with the Washington Invasive Species Council, has proclaimed February 23-27 as Washington Invasive Species Awareness Week, recognizing the ongoing threat invasive plants, animals and pathogens pose to the state. “Invasive species continue to threaten Washington’s lands, waters and communities,” Ferguson said. “Everyone—from students to farmers to outdoor enthusiasts—has a part […]

February 10, 2026Read More

Governor Declares Invasive Species Awareness Week

OLYMPIA–Gov. Bob Ferguson, in partnership with the Washington Invasive Species Council, has proclaimed February 24-28 as Washington Invasive Species Awareness Week in solidarity with National Invasive Species Awareness Week. “Invasive species and noxious weeds already are a big problem in Washington and species that have yet to reach our state could pose even greater challenges […]

February 10, 2025Read More
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Plants and animals have always traveled with us. But outdoor gear and transportation systems like cars, planes, and boats have created super highways enabling invasive species to quickly spread across large areas.These introductions can impact our habitats, economy, and human health and safety. The good news is that pathways are something we can manage together.Every time you . . .• Clean your gear, boots, and vehicle (boat, car, bike, etc.)• Buy non-invasive plants• Stay on marked trails and don’t make unauthorized ones • Dispose of waste and yard materials properly• Report unusual species at https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/. . . you’re helping close the path for the next invasion.Invasive species don’t move themselves; we move them. That means we can stop them too by paying attention and closing the pathways they travel.Species shown: Asian longhorned beetle, spotted lanternfly, emerald ash borer, bottlebrush and yellow starthistle ... See MoreSee Less
The spongy moth is a real sicko. It strips leaves from trees in yards, parks, riversides, and entire forests—it's one of the worst invasive forest pests in North America.It doesn’t just snack . . . it devours! And leaves behind only stressed trees, damaged habitats, and communities dealing with messy, repeated outbreaks. It’s not established in Washington yet—and we’d like to keep it that way.Here’s how YOU can help:• Don’t move firewood or outdoor materials • Check vehicles, RVs, and gear for egg masses after traveling • Follow quarantine rules (they exist for a reason) • Leave traps alone—they’re doing important work • Report a sighting: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/Learn more about the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s quarantine rules: https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/quarantines Photos by Ferenc Lakatos, University of Sopron, Bugwood.org (caterpillar) and John Ghent, Bugwood.org (moths) ... See MoreSee Less
That turtle, fish, or lizard you can’t keep anymore? Don’t let it loose! It may feel kind to release an unwanted pet into a neighborhood park, lake, or stream, but it’s not like TV. There’s no ooze waiting to mutate your pet into a crime-fighting mutant ninja. It’s often just a slow harmful ending awaiting the pet and just the beginning of a much bigger problem for the environment.Most pets don’t survive in the wild. Those that do can become invasive, damaging plant communities, harming native wildlife, and impacting local businesses. Across the U.S., invasive species cause billions of dollars in damage every year, and many started as pets or ornamental plants.To avoid that awkward conversation with the kids explaining how Michelangelo “escaped”:- Plan before buying. Research lifespan, size, and care needs of potential pets.- Rehome responsibly. Contact shelters, rescues, or local pet stores.- Ask your network for help. Friends, social media, or community groups can be great tools and support.Releasing a pet into the wild might feel like a reason to shout “Cowabunga!”, but it’s not. Celebrate once you’ve made sure your pet is safe and our environment stays protected.Learn more: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/campaigns/dont-let-it-loose/Photo courtesy of Washington State Parks ... See MoreSee Less
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