Protecting Washington's Environment and Economy from Harmful Invasive Species

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Next Council Meeting

July 16, 2026  in  Olympia

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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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That’s not a dinner plate. That’s a cluster of invasive mussels that are hitching a ride on a boat propeller.Springtime in Washington means boats, paddles, waders, and weekends on the water. It also means risk—especially from invasive freshwater mussels.These tiny hitchhikers don’t wait for an invite. They latch onto boats and gear, which can innocently transport invasive species from one waterbody to another. These mussels could cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars a year and close access to state waters for recreation and commercial opportunities and clog water intake pipes and filters, reducing water pumping capabilities for power and water treatment plants. Once established, they will change ecological systems and food sources critical to native mussels and species such as salmon and trout. Before you head to your next lake or river take three simple steps:1. Clean all equipment that touched the water of plants, algae, animals, and mud.2. Drain all water (live wells, bilge, buckets) before you leave.3. Dry everything completely before your next trip to a waterbody.Nothing ruins a perfect Washington lake faster than an invasive species that never leaves.Image courtesy of Government of Alberta ... See MoreSee Less
Cute, destructive, and absolutely not dating material. Swipe left on this pest. Always. The Japanese Beetle is making way too many connections in Washington. Specifically in South Central Washington (Yakima, Benton, Pasco, Wapato) and near the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.It’s a shiny, metallic green heartbreaker with copper vibes, looking for your garden, your lawn, the entire ecosystem.Don’t let this one invade your DMs. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of this lurker:• Watch for damaged leaves that look like lace • Examine struggling lawns, possibly from root damageIf you think you’ve spotted one, don’t ghost it! Report it: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/And please, don’t help it travel. It gets around enough. ... See MoreSee Less
Memorial Day weekend checklist: pack snacks, sunscreen, and a variety of beverages. But don’t pack a pest!Nothing ruins a beautiful weekend faster than accidentally introducing a long-term ecological nightmare. Invasive seeds, mud, and tiny stowaways can cling to your boots, dog, gear, and even your tires and end up changing entire ecosystems.So, before and after you play:- Remove plants, animals, and mud from boots, gear, pets, and vehicles- Clean your gear before entering and leaving recreation areas- Stay on designated roads and trails- Use certified or local firewood and hayRemember, if you’re headed out this weekend, pack the cooler, grab your friends, clean all your equipment and gear first, and leave invasive species behind. Learn more: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/campaigns/play-clean-go/ ... See MoreSee Less
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