Serving Elk County, Pennsylvania since 1962! Call Us: 814-776-5373
Elk
County
Conservation
District
Invasive Species
Information
The mitigation of invasive species is a priority for us here at the District. Our goal is to manage invasives from spreading further across Elk County and threatening our natural habitats. We offer education and outreach, as well as opportunities for treatment projects.
Got a question? Contact Juli Silveri, to talk about invasives!
Contact info: tech2@elkconservationdistrict.com
814-776-5411
What is an Invasive Species?
Invasive species are those that are not native to an ecosystem where they do not naturally exist. They are able to spread rapidly resulting in a monoculture.
Invasive species also cause harm to their introduced environment, the economy, and health (both of native species and human).
Noxious weeds include plant species that can be injurious to public health, crops, livestock, agricultural land or other property. These are placed into three classes; noxious weeds can be categorized as Class A, Class B, or Class C.
Why are they harmful?
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Non-native species can create economic problems by affecting production (i.e., agriculture), or they could have a negative impact on recreational activities or tourism.
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Invasives create a threat to the native plants and animals in their introduced environment, which could permanently change an ecosystem.
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Invasive species can also be a host to both new and existing diseases that could potentially impact human health.
How can they spread?
Invasive species are able to spread through the transportation of goods or products, recreational activities, non-native landscaping, or the releasing of unwanted pets.
The spread of invasive species might not always be intentional, but an increase in their populations could result in more serious problems.
Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) is a set of treatment actions used to locate and eradicate any new and/or emerging invasives found in a specific location. This strategy is used to mitigate a species before they become well-established, spread, and cause harm.
Spotlight Species
