Protecting Washington's Environment and Economy from Harmful Invasive Species

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September 24, 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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The only thing larger than an invasive nutria’s toothy grin is their appetite. They destroy about ten times more plant matter than they eat too, damaging vegetation in fragile shorelines and marshes. They also create burrows that may contribute to erosion. Nutria are listed as a Prohibited Aquatic Animal Species, which means it’s unlawful to transport nutria anywhere within the state without a permit to do so. Landowners should review all state regulations before proceeding with plans for trapping and euthanasia. Learn more: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/priorityspecies/nutria/ Image courtesy of Timo Sack/Wikimedia ... See MoreSee Less
An emerald ash borer was discovered in Washington— the first detection of this invasive insect in our state. Two vigilant citizens spotted the live insect on their car window, collected it, and made a report. As a result of their efforts, the Washington State Department of Agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed their report of emerald ash borer in Vancouver, WA.The arrival of emerald ash borer means ash trees in our forests, parks, and backyards are at risk. This invasive pest has wiped out more than 100 million ash trees throughout the country.YOU can help protect our trees: - Never move firewood more than 10 miles to avoid accidentally transporting forest pests- Consider planting alternatives to ash trees- Scan existing ash trees for signs of damage (thinning canopy, small D-shaped holes) or emerging adults (metallic green insect about a half inch in length). Learn more: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/priorityspecies/emerald-ash-borer/Images courtesy of David Cappaert ... See MoreSee Less
Washington’s exterior firewood quarantine law goes into effect today! Only heat-treated firewood labeled “approved pest free” is allowed from outside of the state.Our lands are at risk from invasive insects like spongy moth, emerald ash borer, and Asian longhorned beetle, all known to spread to new areas in firewood.You can help protect our forests and prevent the spread of harmful insects by:- Telling your friends, neighbors, and family about Washington’s firewood quarantine and the dangers of moving firewood. - When recreating, buying firewood locally (ten miles or less from your destination) - Burning all your firewood before leaving your campsiteLearn more using the link in our bio. Photos courtesy of David Cappaert ... See MoreSee Less
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