Protect Outdoors with Simple Actions

By Scout Nelson

Summer is the perfect season for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, biking, and horseback riding. However, outdoor enthusiasts should take extra care because humans are the primary reason invasive species spread from one location to another.

According to Julia Delick of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or other organisms that can damage the environment, affect human health, and harm local economies. Many of these species are spread accidentally through recreational activities.

Before visiting natural areas, it is important to understand local regulations. Rules related to invasive species, noxious weeds, and protected species may differ depending on the location. Officials recommend checking guidance from state and local authorities before traveling.

Learning to identify invasive species is another important step. Outdoor visitors can use resources such as EDDMapS and iNaturalist to understand which invasive plants and animals are present in an area. Early awareness reduces the risk of accidentally spreading them.

Cleaning equipment thoroughly is one of the most effective prevention methods. Dirt, seeds, insects, and plant material can easily attach to shoes, bicycles, vehicles, pets, and camping equipment. Removing these materials before leaving a site helps stop invasive species from moving to new locations.

Horse riders should clean horse-shoes and use certified weed-free hay. More information about certified forage is available through the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association.

Visitors are also encouraged to stay on designated trails. Doing so helps protect native vegetation and limits the movement of invasive species. Those using kayaks, canoes, or boats should always clean, drain, and dry their watercraft to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive pests.

Proper bait disposal is equally important. Unused bait, fish parts, and packing materials should be placed in the trash rather than left in water bodies or on land. In addition, people should avoid transporting firewood because pests such as emerald ash borer and spongy moth can travel in cut wood.

For more information, visit the Play Clean Go website.

By following these simple practices every time, they go outdoors; individuals can help protect valuable ecosystems and prevent invasive species from spreading.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev