The Nature Conservancy in Indiana - JWN

Be on the Lookout!

Here are just a few invasive species that Hoosiers should be concerned about:

garlic mustard
Asian bush honeysuckle
hydrilla
gypsy moth
emerald ash borer
kudzu
autumn olive

Here at Journey with Nature, we can't mention enough the negative impact invasive species have on our natural, recreational and agricultural lands. With nearly 140 billion dollars spent to fight invasive species in the Unities States every year, its an issue that can't be ignored.

Don't Hike with Pests

Individuals can prevent infestation in private lawns and fields by knowing what to look for and how to properly eradicate those particular invasive species if found. The Indiana Cooperative Agricultural Survey (CAPS) program and the Midwest Invasive Plant Network (MIPN) are great resources for Hoosiers who are curious as to whether a plant on their property could be a pesky invasive specie.

State parks, national parks and preserves get help by staff and volunteers in pulling, spraying and preventing the spread of invasives. Unfortunately, those who love these protected natural areas are most likely the ones spreading species such as garlic mustard, Japanese stiltgrass and purple loosestrife. Unsuspecting hikers can harbor hitchhiking invasive species in the form of small plants that stick to their clothing, shoes and recreational equipment. Once these species take root in Hoosier natural lands and waters, they can upset entire ecosystems.

Keep Those Boots Clean!

The good news is that hikers can prevent spreading invasive species. The best way: keep those boots clean! Hiking boots, shoes and even sandals can unwittingly transports invasive plants to wherever you hike next. Ideally all gear should be wiped clean before leaving a natural site, but footwear is .

Using a stiff-bristled scrub brush to scrap away visible traces of sand, mud, gravel and plant fragments will do the trick. This should be done before you leave the park or preserve, but can be done at home as long as you have a place to dispose the dirt. You wouldn't want to accidentally spread any possible invasive specie fragments to your yard or garden. To help, The Nature Conservancy has installed boot brush stands at several of their Indiana sites to make sure hikers don’t bring or leave invasive hitchhikers in or out of the preserve.

The Indiana Chapter is also working to spread the word about invasive species and to educate the public on what to look out for through our work with IPSAWG and the Invasive Species Task Force. Remember, invasive species have devastating impacts on our natural communities, agricultural fields, recreational opportunities and our local economy. By learning more about them, and what they can do, can make a world of difference.