Idaho Invasive Species Assessment

Download a copy of An Assessment of Invasive Species Management in Idaho* or the Executive Summary*.

The Assessment is meant to heighten awareness of the invasive species problem, summarize ongoing efforts both in Idaho and nationally, examine the strengths and weaknesses of these efforts, and suggest some needed changes. Just as Idahoans have met the challenges posed by a host of plant and animal pests or noxious weeds, these efforts need to be extended to invasive species that might arrive here or, if here already, might spread uncontrollably to other parts or the state.

The problem is large and the risks to Idaho’s economy and ecological values too high. A more comprehensive and coordinated effort will be needed to stem an increasing number of undesirable species brought here by an increasingly complex and growing number of invasion pathways. The Assessment describes major threats, presents key challenges and findings, and proposes recommendations from which agencies, policy makers, and landowners can move forward in a more coordinated and comprehensive way.

Despite many efforts, the invasive species problem is growing. New invaders cross Idaho’s borders each year. Some, like forest insects or agricultural pests, are tracked closely and controlled by public agencies. Others may go unnoticed, growing quietly on our lands or in our waters until their populations explode to nuisance levels. Idaho is good at managing some types of invasive species and ineffective at managing others. Overall, management is fragmented, marked by gaps and overlaps in authorities and responsibilities among agencies who could be powerful allies in the fight against invasive species.

*This document is in pdf format.