Invasive Species of the Hudson Valley

Watch out! Invasive species of the Hudson Valley

by niki@hvny.info

Privet, used popularly as a border hedge in formal gardens, is an invasive species here in the Hudson Valley. So is Japanese Barberry, Yellow Iris, Burning bush, Multiflora rose, and Purple Loosestrife, just like the Emerald Ash Borer, Snakehead fish, Asian Jumping Worm and the Spotted Lanternfly.

These non-native species outcompete and contribute to habitat loss for our local fish, wildlife, plant and tree species, damage crops, and can be severely hazardous to humans – like Giant Hogweed and Wild Parsnip, which are flowering this time of year. Simply brushing against either of those two plants will release a sap containing light-sensitive chemicals, that, when exposed to the sun, will severely burn the skin within 24 to 48 hours.

In addition to identifying and eradicating invasives, there are certain measures to stop the spread of these species: only use firewood sourced from the location you’re having a fire so you're not transporting and spreading infested wood to other areas. (In New York State, DEC regulation says untreated firewood may not be transported more than 50 miles from its source or origin.)  And if you go out on the water, rinse off your boat/kayak before and after boating.

Map the invasive species currently in your neighborhood, here: http://bit.ly/InvasiveSpeciesMap 

Check the "Ones To Watch" on the DEC's new interactive map with links to quickly report any sightings, here: http://bit.ly/DEC_InvasiveSpeciesMap 

(Main image source: https://www.lhprism.org/terrestrial-plants) 

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