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 is 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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Road trip plans? Your firewood should stay home.Moving firewood—even just a short distance—can spread invasive pests including spongy moth, emerald ash borer, and Asian longhorned beetle that damage and kill trees.In Washington, that’s a risk we can’t afford.That’s why the Washington State Department of Agriculture recently adopted a new rule effective August 18, 2026:• No untreated firewood can be brought into Washington from outside the state.• Treated firewood must meet strict treatment and labeling requirements.Remember, if you’re planning to have a campfire on your trip:1. Buy it where you burn it2. Use certified heat-treated firewood3. Gather firewood locally (where allowed)Learn more about the new rule: https://agr.wa.gov/services/rulemaking/firewood-quarantine-081224 ... See MoreSee Less
Meet the hammerhead worm. James Cameron could base a new sci-fi trilogy on it. These invasive flatworms eat our valuable earthworms (rude) and secrete a toxin to subdue its prey (extra rude).Before you panic, it’s not dangerous to humans. BUT you shouldn’t handle it with bare hands. Gloves on, always. Also, don’t cut it or smash it. The bits can regenerate into new worms. (sci-fi much?)If found, use gloves to place the worm in a bag or disposable and then do one of the following:• Sprinkle salt in the container • Pour vinegar in the container• Place the container in direct sunlightFinally, after ensuring it “won’t be back,” dispose the sealed container with the worm in it and report your sighting on the WA Invasives App: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/ ... See MoreSee Less
One club that Washington is NOT trying to join is the Ivy League. (Not the schools, the plant.) English ivy might give off cozy cottage vibes, but it’s a landscape bully. It climbs, spreads, and crowds out native plants and damages trees over time.Here’s the deal:• It’s on Washington’s quarantine list—it’s prohibited to transport, buy, or sell, including its seed form.• It’s a Class C noxious weed—which means it’s “obnoxious” to the agricultural industry. • It’s way too comfortable hereHelp us keep tabs on it by reporting sightings on the WA Invasives app or online form. Your reports help us track where it’s spreading so we can prioritize control efforts: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/Feeling motivated? Check with your county weed board, many local groups host ivy pull events. It’s basically a workout with a purpose.*Please note: We're currently updating the app and English ivy is not listed yet. For the time being, please use the “unknown plant” selection until we can get the app updated and leave a note that you think the species is English Ivy. Thank you for your help!!* ... See MoreSee Less
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