Invasive species have significantly impacted United States ecosystems and cost millions of dollars to prevent, detect and control. The Forest Service Research and Development Invasive Species Program provides the scientific information, tools and methods for regulators, managers and the public to address invasive species. We work with many partners including local and international scientists, land managers and concerned citizens, to reduce, minimize or eliminate the introduction, establishment and spread of invasive species threats.
Forest Service Research and Development studies all sorts of invasive species:
Insects,
Plant Pathogens,
Weeds,
Fish & Aquatic, and
Terrestrial Animals.
Select an Invasive Species Group
Features
Overarching Research Priorities
Our research effort emphasizes the following research priorities:
- Invasive Species Biology, Ecology, Interactions and Impacts
- Forecasting and Prioritizing Invasive Species
- Identifying and Detecting Invasive Species
- Managing Invasive Species and Altered Systems
Spotlights
How Removal of Invasive Trees Affects Nesting Birds in Riparian Areas
In New Mexico’s Middle Rio Grande corridor, birds nest in invasive exotic tree species, raising concern about removing these exotic trees for wildfire control. Would nesting be harmed?
Monitoring of Invasive Tree Takes Flight Over Ohio Forests
Ailanthus altissima, a rapidly growing invasive non-native tree, is spreading into many forested landscapes in the eastern United States and displacing native plants.
Trap to Detect Asian Longhorned Beetles
Development of an operationally effective trap has been a goal of the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) Eradication Program since the first individual ALB was found in New York in 1996.
