Well, the Nat’l Invasive Species Week (March 3-8) is a good time to stress the economic impact of invasive species. Here is an Oregon run down of plant species that cause problems.
Madeline Von Foerster’s painting “Invasive Species II”
“Invasive weeds and pests are more than a gardener’s dilemma. These species are not native to our area and pose a threat to natural areas, human health, and our local economy.
The estimated economic impact of invasive species totals 143 billion dollars per year within the United States. Within the state of Oregon, the impact associated with just twenty-one invasive weed species costs Oregonians $125 million dollars per year in lost agricultural production, fire damage, and control expenses. We all pay the bill through increased food costs, higher taxes, and decreased property values. These impacts clearly show the economic benefits associated with controlling invasive weeds.”
Factor in exotic animals, water borne invasions with the plant and the non-native tweaking of the habitat does have consequences for us all.
SwittersB & Exploring 