Overview

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Invasive species are organisms that are non-native to an ecosystem and whose introduction causes economic, social, or environmental harm. Nearly every terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic ecosystem in the United States has been invaded by non-native species, with economic losses estimated at $137 billion per year. Invasive species constitute one of the most serious economic, social, and environmental threats of the 21st century. CSREES is actively engaged in the battle against invasive species through leadership in the implementation of the National Invasive Species Management Plan and funding from Section 406 Pest Management Programs and others in the National Research Initiative (NRI) Program. CSREES also has established the National Animal and Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Networks, provides annual Hatch Act funding of Agricultural Experiment Station projects, and administers special grants related to invasive species.

In Focus

• A CSREES stakeholders' workshop on plant and pest biology elicited research, education, and extension priorities from scientific and commodity groups.
• USDA issues new procedures for hand-carrying and inspecting biological organisms.
• CSREES grants are helping scientists in Florida and Guam studying a fungus affecting economically important crops like soybeans, rubber, and tomatoes.
• Increased integrated pest management (IPM) education and training will help federal agencies address elements of the National Invasive Species Management Plan.
• New CSREES plant and animal health diagnostic laboratories enhance capabilities for detecting and reporting pathogens of national interest.
• A CSREES-supported regional training session focused on combating Soybean Rust.


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Partnerships

• The Invasive Species Advisory Committee helps federal agencies better coordinate invasive species efforts.

Events

• Competitive Grants Grantsmanship Workshops, Washington, DC/Salt Lake City, UT, September/October, 2008.
• Galaxy III Conference: "Celebrating the Extension System: Strengths, Diversity, and Unique Qualities," Indianapolis, IN, September 15-19, 2008.
• 2009 International Master Gardener Conference: "New Frontiers" in horticulture and gardening, Las Vegas, NV, March 22-26, 2009.


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Selected Results and Impacts

• Michigan State researchers use CSREES funds to combat exotic forest insect pests.
• With CSREES funds, Minnesota researchers target soybean aphids.
• CSREES sponsored a stakeholders' workshop discussing national priorities for research, education, and extension in plant and pest biology.


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Resources

• National Plant Diagnostic Network offers on-line and face to face first detector training for anyone likely to first encounter exotic pests in the field.
• NatureServe and its network of natural heritage programs provide the scientific basis for effective conservation action.
• Proceedings National Soybean Rust Symposium 2007, Plant Management Network. Publication with symposium program, presentations, posters, and sessions.


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Contacts

Robert Nowierski

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