Invasive Species

Ashley Newcomb, Ashley Kahl-Placek, Matt Magel, Nick Stockton, Travis Hood, Tyler Chase, William McDonald, Agency Partner: Shawna Bautista USFS

Portland State University

Invasive species are types of non-indigenous species that cause economic and environmental problems as well as spread further throughout the state.

They especially present threats to the native species of Oregon as a result of various different factors. For example, native and invasive species have not evolved alongside one another and so natives often cannot compete effectively for resources such as nutrients and space. Additionally, invasive species are often free from the predators they would encounter in their home-range, which can lead to rapid and unchecked growth. The successful spread of invasive species can mean the decline or even extinction of important native species, which can drastically disrupt the ecosystems that are critical to recreation, industry and daily life. 

Here is a map detailing some invasive species of extreme concern, as well as their identifying features and preferred habitats, their current and potential impacts on the environment, and common methods for their spread, propagation, and the control thereof.

Public involvement is crucial to detecting and preventing the spread of these invasive species. The more eyes on the issue, the more likely they are to be found and dealt with. If you see one of these species, take a picture and/or report it to your state’s invasive species council:

• Oregon invasive species council: https://www.oregoninvasivespeciescouncil.org/
• Oregon invasive species hotline (1-866-INVADER)
• Washington Invasive Species Council: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov