Invasive Species Awareness Week in NYS is June 7 - June 13

Wait, What Is That?

Invasive species are non-native species that can cause harm to the environment, the economy or human health. Invasives can come from as close as a few states away or as far as across the globe. Some invasives were actively introduced to create huntable or viewable populations, or even as a business enterprise, while others were transported via shipping crates, boat ballasts and other seemingly innocent methods like the bottom of your shoes after outdoor activities. The only limits to invasive travel are human limitations.

To combat the impacts of invasive species, DEC created and supports the Bureau of Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health (BISEH) within the Division of Lands and Forests. This group works across the state by providing expertise, assistance and action where invasive species are a threat. BISEH collaborates with numerous stakeholders including state and federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and industries.

Nathan Hudson works for the BISEH as a specialist. Nathan grew up in Cortland County where he cultivated a love of the outdoors, specifically fishing. His love of forestry was sparked on Cranberry Lake during a high school program at the SUNY ESF Biological Station. “As soon as we had our weeklong program in high school, I knew that was what I was going to do for the rest of my life.”

Nathan started his career at DEC as a seasonal employee on a cutting crew in Region 3 managing the Emerald Ash Borer infestation in the Hudson Valley. He has also worked on Long Islands Southern Pine Beetle infestation. The invasive species targets the pitch pine tree, which is the dominant species in the Pine Barrens, and has already killed thousands of trees in the area.

In his spare time, Nathan enjoys traveling to visit friends and visiting our national parks. His favorite part of the job is working with people. He enjoys interacting with the public and teaching them how to care for and protect their trees.

To learn more about the BISEH and how to prevent the spread of invasive species, visit our website.  

Invasive Species Awareness Week in New York is June 7 - June 13. 

Below are some facts on invasive species in recognition of Invasive Species Awareness Week.

Where are invasive species found?

Invasives can be aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals, or diseases and are found in:

• Forests
• Trees
• Plants
• Waterways
• Backyards

What damage do invasive species cause?

• Habitat degradation and loss
• The loss of native fish, wildlife and tree species
• The loss of recreational opportunities and income
• Crop damage and diseases in humans and livestock
• Risks to public safety

What can you do to combat Invasive species?

Be aware. When traveling or even taking a walk in a nearby forest, make sure to stay on marked trails, and be sure to check your shoes, clothing, packs, cars and boats for anything that might have hitched a ride. The introduction, spread and management of invasive species is heavily influenced by the actions of citizens who live, work and recreate on public and private lands and waterways of New York.