Non-native, invasive species threaten endangered animals and plants at Point Reyes National Seashore and are costly to control. Learn how you can help prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species before they become a problem.

The Threat of Non-Native Plants and Animals
Native plants and animals living near urban areas are especially vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and the introduction of non-native, invasive species. "Non-native" species are also called "introduced" or "exotic" species; this term refers to plants that originate elsewhere and are brought into a new area. Not all introduced species are invasive, but those which are may dominate the local species or in some way negatively impact the environment for native species.

For example, many non-native, invasive weed species are plants that grow or spread aggressively, taking over important wildlife habitat, devastating shelter and forage, and reducing the diversity and quality of native habitat. These weeds often do not hold and protect the soil the way native plants do, so erosion increases and causes sedimentation of streams, harming fish populations and water quality.

Roads, trails and parking lots are often where we first find non-native, invasive species. Nearly half of the endangered plants and animals in the United States have been negatively affected by non-native, invasive species. In addition, these species cause an estimated $138 billion in economic damage each year in the United States.

How You Can Help
If you plan to visit Point Reyes National Seashore, you probably care a great deal about protecting park resources from harm. Ironically, those who enjoy visiting Point Reyes can also be responsible for spreading non-native, invasive species. You can help prevent the introduction and spread of non-native plants and animals, which is far more effective than costly eradication programs.

• Clean and Inspect Clothing, Gear, and Containers for Weeds and Other "Hitchhikers"
  Many weed seeds readily stick to clothing and camping gear. These seeds can later fall off and germinate, establishing new weed colonies. Weeds and other non-native organisms can hitch a ride in camping equipment, food containers and baggage. Visitors should clean and inspect their footwear, clothing, and gear (especially shoe treads and Velcro) for seeds and soil before traveling to Point Reyes and before departing the park. Socks and cuffs of pants should be given particular attention. Sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and tents should be cleaned and inspected for soil, invertebrates, and seeds before leaving home.

• While Hiking
  Trails can be pathways for a lot more than just people. Weeds often spread along trails and then to adjacent un-infested areas. You can help prevent this from happening by always staying on designated trails, avoiding weed-infested areas, and by not picking or transporting plants when hiking in the Seashore. Pack out all trash. Just because some trash—apple cores, orange seeds, etc.—is “natural” or organic, doesn’t mean it can be left behind. Please be sure to pack out all trash. While most domestic fruit and vegetable species are not invasive, some can germinate and become pests. Food sources associated with people can turn wild animals into habituated, problem animals.

• Campfires
  Campfires are prohibited throughout most of the Seashore and are only allowed on beaches, if you have obtained a Beach Fire Permit from a park Visitor Center or ranger. Common sense will tell you that campfires can be dangerous and potentially harmful in more ways than one. In addition to the threat of wildfire, firewood brought from elsewhere can harbor organisms that can be very destructive. This includes the fungal-like disease Sudden Oak Death that kills several species of native trees. You can help prevent the spread of this disease and other harmful organisms by only bringing pine or almond to the park to use as firewood.
  See our Beach Fires page for more information.

• Domestic Animals
  Although many people know that pets are prohibited throughout much of the National Seashore, they probably never imagine the danger domestic animals can pose to wildlife. Diseases carried by domestic animals can spread to wild animals, or vice versa. A variety of wild animals are sensitive to disease, and pets and their droppings can spread pathogens and cause other problems for wildlife. Even vaccinated and apparently healthy animals can be carriers of diseases that are potentially lethal to wildlife. Although few pet owners like to leave their pets at home, this is probably the best way of avoiding the temptation to take your pet to locations at Point Reyes where they are not permitted.
  See our Pets page for more information.

• Boaters and Invasive Species
  Private boaters should be particularly diligent to ensure that no unwelcome plants, animals and other organisms are living on their boats that could be accidentally transferred to the waters surrounding Point Reyes. A variety of aquatic invasive species can hitch a ride on our clothing, boats, and items used in the water. When boaters go to other bodies of water, the invasive species can be released. And, if the conditions are right, these introduced species can become established and create drastic results. By following the following guidelines each time you leave the water, you can help stop aquatic hitchhikers.

Go to the Protect Your Waters and Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! website for more information.

Thank you for doing your part to stop the spread of non-native, invasive species at Point Reyes National Seashore. If you want to do more to help preserve Point Reyes' ecosystem, you may wish to participate in the Habitat Restoration Program or a variety of other volunteer opportunities.

Top of Page