Invasive Species Resources

Humans have intentionally and unintentionally accelerated the movement of a wide variety of plant and animal species to habitats outside of their historic range. While only a small fraction of foreign plants and animals establish themselves to become "invasive" or nuisance species, the invaders that succeed threaten native biodiversity and may disrupt entire ecosystems. Eradication is often difficult or impossible, and the economic costs of managing the impacts of these nuisance species can be significant. The spread of invasive species represents a unique and particularly threatening type of pollution that can have irrevocable consequences for the quality and beneficial use of the local environment.

In Oregon, a number of different organizations are addressing the impacts of invasive species. Strong partnerships between industry, advocacy, volunteer and educational groups is critical in the fight to protect Oregon’s treasured natural resources from the impacts of invasive species.  Most importantly, everyone needs to learn to do their part to help minimize the risk of introducing new species to Oregon or spreading those that are already in our state.

What You Can Do

• How outdoor enthusiasts can help
• Volunteer for invasive species eradication efforts (SOLV)
• Call the toll-free Invasive Species Hotline, 1-866-INVADER (1-866-468-2337), if you spot a potential invasive species pest. You may also call this number if you have a question regarding a specific invasive pest.

DEQ Program Activities

• Ballast Water Management Program
• Task Force on Shipping Transport of Aquatic Invasive Species

Other State Programs and Resources

• Oregon Invasive Species Council
• OR Dept of Agriculture
  
  
  • Insect Pest Prevention Section
  • Noxious Weed Control Program
• OR Dept of Fish and Wildlife - Oregon Conservation Strategy
• OR Dept of Forestry - Forest Health Management
• Oregon Clean Marina Program  
• Portland State University - Aquatic Bioinvasion Research and Policy Institute
• Oregon Sea Grant - Marine Invasion Outreach/Education Program

 

 

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