Invasive Species 101

Learn about our Global Invasive Species Initiative.

What is an Invasive Species?
In their natural environment, plant and animal populations are kept in check by natural controls - predators and food supply. When a new species is introduced - accidently or intentionally - these balances can be thrown off and the consequences can be devastating. While not all "non-native" species cause problems, some can spread unchecked, crowding out natural plants and animals and costing billions in property damage. These are called "invasive species."

What are the Consequences?
Invasive species contribute directly to the decline of 49% of the threatened and endangered species in the US. They disrupt breeding grounds, shade out native plants, and destroy food chains. Additionally, they can have strong economic impacts as well. Invasive species can destroy economic productivity by infesting livestock pastures or farmlands, causing land owners to spend millions combating them.

What is The Nature Conservancy Doing to Help?
The Nature Conservancy aims to control the threat to biodiversity posed by invasive plants, animals, insects, and diseases through a combination of prevention, early detection, eradication, restoration, research, and outreach. We believe that the threat of invasive species can be effectively abated by using these techniques and approaches.

Learn More
Want to know more? Here are some great resources:

•Six Easy Ways to Combat Invasives
•The Global Invasive Species Initiative
•New York State Media Calls for Action
•Central New York: The Swallow-wort (.pdf, 145 kb)
•Long Island's Task Force (.pdf, 460 kb)