The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Agriculture and Markets (AGM) today announced that the State’s 11th annual Invasive Species Awareness Week (ISAW) begins Monday, June 3. This annual campaign encourages New Yorkers to learn more about and support the fight against the spread of invasive species. DEC and AGM are hosting free public events and invasive species challenges from June 3 to June 9 across the state and online, including daily webinars at 1p.m. each weekday.
“Each year, Invasive Species Awareness Week educates New Yorkers about how to do their part to safeguard our lands and waters against invasive species,” DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “By building awareness and helping inspire people to take action, we can all make a difference in protecting native ecosystems and our shared environment.”
“New Yorkers are critical partners in our efforts to combat invasives across New York State, helping us to monitor for these species and slow the damage that they cause to our natural resources and agricultural industries,” State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said. “A number of invasive species, such as Spotted Lanternfly and Box Tree Moth, are harmful to our plants and crops and can have a severe economic impact on these sectors. During Invasive Species Awareness Week, I encourage New Yorkers to learn how to spot these non-native species and protect our agricultural community and the environment.”
Invasive species are plants, animals, insects, and pathogens that are not native to an area and cause harm to the environment, agriculture, economy, or public health. Non-native species can become invasive when introduced to a new area with few or no population controls, which allows them to grow unchecked and outcompete native species for resources. New York is particularly vulnerable to these pests due to the state’s role as a center for international trade and travel.
