Spotted lanternfly, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org
Photo of a spongy moth caterpillar, Washington State Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org
MI State U., www.forestryimages.org
Japanese knotweed, USDA Forest Service
Adult Jumping Worm. The smooth clitellum or band distinguishes it from other earthworm species.
Invasive Species
An "invasive species" is defined as a species that is: 1) non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and 2) whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Invasive species can be plants, animals, and other organisms (e.g., microbes).
When an invasive species is introduced into an area, there are often no predators or biological factors present to keep population numbers or growth in check. This can wreak havoc for native landscapes and species, destroying biodiversity and disrupting ecosystem processes. They can even cause problems in our own yards and gardens. Some plants, like Giant Hogweed, can also be toxic to the health of humans. It is important that residents of Sullivan County are aware of these invasive species so we don’t inadvertently spread them, and so that we can report their presence to managing organizations.
If you find an invasive species, please report directly to: iMapInvasives Network
If you need help identifying a suspected invasive species, please contact Horticulture program coordinator Katie Gasior at (845) 292-6180 or kmg287@Cornell.edu
More information and Resources on Invasive Species
Spotted Lanternfly | Agriculture and Markets (ny.gov)
Invasive Plants & Pests | Cornell Garden-Based Learning
Find and Report Invasive Species - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
About Invasive Species | National Invasive Species Information Center
Nuisance & Invasive Species - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
Contact
Katie Gasior
Horticulture Subject Educator
kmg287@cornell.edu
(845) 292-6180 Ext. 123
Last updated February 13, 2023
