Central ND News

With the arrival of warmer weather, public awareness about invasive species is crucial. Each year, these harmful weeds, plant pests, and diseases lead to $40 billion in losses across U.S. cropland, grasslands, forests, and more. This figure includes costs related to eradication and control efforts as reported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring highlighted the ease with which these pests can spread: “Plant pests, diseases and noxious weeds can be spread a number of ways,” he said. “It only takes one infected plant or piece of firewood to move invasive species into North Dakota.”

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) advises residents to take several precautions against the movement of plant pests:

- Purchase plants from local nurseries or garden centers that are reputable. The NDDA licenses and inspects nurseries within the state to ensure plants are sourced from inspected origins.

- Buy or collect firewood near where it will be used or opt for certified heat-treated firewood instead. The NDDA has collaborated with a free firewood finder available at https://www.firewoodscout.org/ to help locate local sources.

- Clean hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles, and other equipment thoroughly to prevent invasive species from traveling.

- Report any suspected invasive pests to the NDDA or your local extension office.

For further information on preventing the spread of invasive species, visit websites such as hungrypests.com, dontmovefirewood.org, www.playcleango.org/, or www.ndda.nd.gov/firewood.