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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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

Invasive Species Council Recognizes Leaders

OLYMPIA–The Washington Invasive Species Council recognized three top leaders for achievements in managing and preventing the spread of invasive plants and animals at a first-of-its-kind recognition awards ceremony in December. “These are new awards, and they celebrate the contributions of people who are working hard to protect Washington’s rich natural heritage and ensure that non-native […]

December 9, 2024Read More
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Salmon need more than clean water—they need the right neighbors.When we talk about salmon recovery in Washington, we often picture habitat restoration, streamflow, and water quality. All critical. But here’s something many people don’t realize—invasive plants can quietly and quickly undo that work.These weeds don’t just grow, they take over! They outcompete native plants for resources, reduce oxygen in water, and eliminate habitat for insects that salmon and other wildlife depend on. The good news: controlling invasive species is one of the most effective ways to support salmon recovery.It’s all connected. The next time you hear about noxious weed control, remember it’s not just about plants, it’s about protecting salmon, waterways, and the ecosystems that define Washington. ... See MoreSee Less
It may look as flashy as a K-pop star, but we are not falling for this “idol.”The spotted lanternfly dreams of a permanent gig in Washington and enjoying a full buffet of apples, cherries, hops, and many other crops that are cornerstones to Washington’s economy.This invasive species won’t use an agent to book its gig, it will just hitch a ride on cars, gear, and outdoor items. And once here, it will trash the hotel room (our crops), resulting in costly control efforts to fix damage to agriculture.Help stop the spread! See something suspicious? Report it using the WA Invasives app or online form: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/ Now THAT’S 🎶How it’s done, done, done🎶 ... See MoreSee Less
Most invasive species don’t arrive in Washington on their own, we bring them with us. Sometimes by accident, sometimes on purpose.Everyday activities create the perfect pathways for invasive species to enter and spread across Washington. These pathways include: • ballast water from ships• boats, kayaks, and fishing gear• inside firewood transported across regions• stuck to clothes, shoes, and cars• release of or escaped exotic petsInvasive species can damage ecosystems and are nearly impossible to remove once they’re here. That’s why preventing their arrival is key! Prevention starts with awareness. Check out all of our public awareness campaigns: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/campaigns/ ... See MoreSee Less
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