Protecting Washington's Environment and Economy from Harmful Invasive Species

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July 17, 2025  in  Olympia
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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

State Asks Public to Check Trees for Invasive Pests this August

OLYMPIA – Several state agencies are asking the public to take ten minutes this month to check trees in their communities for signs of invasive insects. The Washington Invasive Species Council, Washington State Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Program, Washington State Department of Agriculture and Washington State University Extension come together each […]

August 6, 2024Read More
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Does this plant, with its four-petaled white flowers, bring up a sense of dread? This is garlic mustard, a highly invasive herb and a Class A noxious weed in Washington (meaning its control is mandated by law.) Today we want to highlight a good news story from our Oregon neighbors. Since 2007, conservationists have been tracking the plant in Multnomah County and working to control it. Their efforts focus on restricting the spread of this noxious weed into nearby forests and mountains. So far, they have been able to prevent it from spreading into the Coast Range and further into the Willamette Valley. It’s not easy work, but it’s important work. Garlic mustard alters soil chemistry, restricting the ability of native plants to germinate and grow. Thankfully, there is still not a lot of garlic mustard in the PNW, but we really need your help to keep it that way! Immediately report sightings and most importantly, clean/brush off your boots before and after working or recreating in natural areas! To read the full story, including identification tips, visit: https://kgw.com/article/news/… ... See MoreSee Less
Last call! Registration will close this Sunday for the Puget Sound Invasive Species and Exotic Pest Workshop. For just $15, you get a full day of intriguing talks about local pests of concern, identification, and management. Plus, five credits from Washington State Department of Agriculture are being offered! And if THAT isn't enough to entice you, we hear that lunch (provided) is The Honey Baked Ham Company! Register now and view the final agenda: https://washingtonstateuniversity.swoogo.com/2025-puget-sound-invasive-species-workshop ... See MoreSee Less
This was a close call! An invasive mussel-infested tugboat headed for the Puget Sound drove right on by a mandatory watercraft inspection station in Montana. Thankfully, a warden with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks stopped the driver and had them return to the inspection station. At the inspection station, inspectors found a large volume of invasive mussels. The boat was then cleaned and decontaminated. The driver had also driven past two prior inspection stations in Montana. Like Montana, in Washington, it is the law to stop at watercraft inspection stations if you pass one while carrying watercraft. In this case, we mean anything that touches the water! Examples include paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, and rafts. These inspection stations are in place to protect the state's economy, environment, and natural and cultural resources. Aquatic invasive species, such as the invasive mussels hitching a ride on this intercepted watercraft, would destroy habitat, diminish native species, and decimate our economy if established here. Please help us and do your part this summer! Clean, drain, and dry your boat. Stop at the mandatory Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife inspection stations. And spread the word! Full news release: https://fwp.mt.gov/homepage/news/…Photo credit: Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks ... See MoreSee Less
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