VDAC provides tips to prevent invasive species from affecting local communities

James Dalpino
·2 min read

RICHMOND, Va. (WFXR)– In honor of Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages the public to help reduce threats that invasive plant pests and diseases pose to the Commonwealth’s agricultural and natural resources.

Non-native, destructive insects, plant diseases and harmful weeds are a huge threat to Virginia’s crops and forests, and can seriously hurt the economy, environment, and even human health. This includes displacing or destroying native plants and insects, severely damaging crops and potentially causing the closure of foreign markets to U.S. products from the infested area.

What makes invasive species so dangerous is once invasive pests occupy an area, they can grow and spread rapidly because most do not have natural predators in their new environment and limited management options.

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Taking steps to prevent their introduction is the best method of reducing the risk of invasive species and the cost to control and mitigate the infestations. The following are a few simple steps to help avoid and stop the spread of invasive pests:

  • Don’t move firewood over long distances as it can be a carrier of invasive insects and diseases. Use firewood that originates from the area where it will be burned. Spotted Lanternfly and Spongy Moth eggs can hitch a ride on firewood and start infestations in new areas.

  • Before leaving a work or recreational site, look for and remove any insects, seeds and other plant parts that might be attached to your equipment, boots, gear, and vehicle.

  • Consult with your local nursery or master gardener to select plants that are not invasive for landscaping and gardening projects. A wide variety of beautiful native plants that thrive in your local environment are available at local nurseries and garden centers.

  • Don’t plant seeds of invasive plants in wildlife food plots.

  • Always declare any plant material brought into the United States when returning from a trip abroad.

More information on invasive plant pests and diseases can be found at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant-pests-diseases.

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