You can help!

Even with the help of diligent community members and volunteers, the problems with invasive species continue to grow. Here is a list of what you can do to help stop the spread of invasives.

By simply choosing native plants when we landscape our yards, neighborhood parks, and public spaces, we can help restore vital habitat for birds in our communities.

In your backyard & community - Audubon's Plants for Birds initiative offers many great practical tips for homeowners to create bird-friendly backyards and community gardens using native species. Properly selected native plants naturally require less time, energy, and water to maintain, and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides to be used. Visit the Native Plants Database to learn more about what species are good to plant in your region, where you can find them, and for more tips for a bird-friendly backyard.

When your boating or paddling - prevent the spread of invasive species (Zebra Mussels, Eurasian Water Milfoil, and European Water Chestnut) to other lakes and rivers in New York by:

• Removing any mussels, plants, and other growth from your boat and trailer, and dispose of them on land.
• Wash boats, trailers, and equipment with hot water, rubbing down gritty areas or spraying with a high-pressure hose. Allow all equipment to dry between uses.
• Drain all water from bilges, live wells, bait buckets, and coolers, and discard excess bait on dry land.
• Flush motors and engines on land - not in the water.
• Wash all tackle before using again.

You can also visit these websites:

• New York Invasive Plant Council
• New York Invasive Species Information
• National Invasive Species Council
• Mid-Atlantic Exotic Pest Plant Council
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• North American Native Plant Society
• Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
• Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force