Pa. governor’s invasive species council shares results, findings

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Governor’s Invasive Species Council recently shared findings from the first statewide survey of impacts from invasive plants, insects, pathogens and animals, and announced that a pilot test of a regional invasive species management program will launch this summer. The Governor’s Invasive Species Council conducted the Pennsylvania Invasive Species Impacts Survey last fall to hear directly from Pennsylvanians about impacts they’re expe - riencing from invasives. The Commonwealth is a steward of the environment, a role that is more important than ever as it takes on threats like invasive species. Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget provides $34 million to support the Department of Environmental Protection’s work to continue to combat and respond to emergencies and disasters. In addition, $3 million will be used to combat spotted lanternfly and other invasive species.

“A biodiverse native eco - system provides the natural resources that are essential to our lives, from agricultural food production to outdoor recreation and fishery, timber, and other industries,” said Department of Environmental Protection Acting Secretary Rich Negrin. “The Governor’s Invasive Species Council is working proactively to help protect the natural resources Pennsylvanians depend on and treasure.”

The Council believes the response to the growing number of invasive species in Pennsylvania requires a statewide program that would identify regional priorities and enable regional solutions – this program would bring together expertise from local and state government, industry, community, and academic organizations. Across the state six Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) would be established.

Over 350 survey respondents said a PRISM program would help them, and over 380 said they’d like to participate in a PRISM in their region.

The Council and the Penn - sylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) will partner to pilot-test a small-scale version of a PRISM program in 13 northwest counties in July. Using $210,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, PACD will conduct on-the-ground projects to remove invasive species and educational outreach to help prevent introduction of invasives. In addition, PACD will develop a strategic plan identifying priorities and committed partners for the region.