Invasive species management

Invasive plant monitoring, control and eradication at Bandon Marsh NWR

Invasive plants are one of the most frequently cited threats to biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health within the National Wildlife Refuge System because of their negative impact on habitat structure, species composition, and overall function of ecological communities. The refuge collaborates with partners on the eradication of Gorse and other high priority noxious weeds. Annual inventories and the application of control methods to eradicate noxious weeds are a high priority activity at Bandon Marsh NWR. 

Annually, refuge staff map the location of known invasive plants. Based on a set of prioritized weeds, control methods are applied. In addition to mapping, monitoring and controlling existing weed species, the refuge staff also conduct surveys in all refuge habitat types to identify new pioneer species of concern. This method enables early detection of highly concerning species so that a rapid response for eradication can be applied. 

News

Biologist walks along shore of St Lazaria island at dusk with Mount Edgecumbe in the background.
While at first glance it might not be obvious what seabirds and invasive species have in common, by taking a step back, the larger mission comes into focus. St. Lazaria, like other islands, is a vulnerable ecosystem, and it’s a place on which storm petrels, and many other species, rely. One...
Collage of invasive plants featuring bird vetch, butter-and-eggs, oxeye daisy, and spotted knapweed.
Recognizing the devastating impacts invasive species can have, the Anchorage Municipal Assembly approved an amendment to the municipal prohibited list of invasive plants on Dec 2, 2025. The amendment included the addition of 16 specific species, plus previously restricted species by State of Alaska...
Two biologist stand smiling behind an outreach booth focused on invasive species prevention and identification in Alaska.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) is a time to learn about the threats posed by non-native plants and animals—and to take action to protect local ecosystems. Invasive species spread quickly, outcompete native species, disrupt food webs, and cause billions of dollars in environmental...
Colored lights decorate the cozy interior of the Dolly Varden log public use cabin at Kenai Refuge on Dolly Varden Lake.
For many, the holiday season is a time of gathering, traveling, and gift-giving. The last thing on anyone’s mind is likely invasive species. However, the season brings about unique opportunities for their potential spread.
Biologist smiling while lifting a boot up to have friend clean dirt out of tread.
Invasive species are well known to be bad. But what makes a species invasive? There are two key components that determine if a plant, animal, or other living organism is invasive: # 1. Thrive in an environment where they don’t naturally live and #2. Cause Harm (or are likely to cause) to economic,...
Researchers holding aquatic vegetation from the lake while sitting on the side of a boat.
Thankfully, in Alaska, right now we’re ahead of the curve with many invasive species. But before you celebrate that news, it’s important to understand that staying early on the invasion curve requires strategic dedicated efforts. 
Watercraft inspector, Steve Wogtech, posed in Santa suit in front of Welcome to Alaska sign.
During the winter holiday season, Santa Claus uses the "naughty and nice list" to sort people based on their behavior in the community. This isn’t all that different from managing invasive species, where the "nice" species are native and beneficial, and the "naughty" species are invasive and...