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Throughout history, humankind’s migration and subsequent trade expansion have introduced non-native species to new ecosystems—often to the detriment of native species. Current scientific evidence shows, for example, that as of 2006, nearly 200 non-native aquatic species now call the Great Lakes home. And their numbers increase every year.
To the causal observer, the effect of alien invasive species in the Great Lakes is readily seen in the degradation of beaches and swimming areas, due in part to weed and mollusk infestations, namely by such species as purple loosestrife and zebra mussels. But look a little further, and the impacts caused by alien invasive species are far more extensive:
- After habitat destruction, invasive species are the second leading cause of species extinctions in the world; and
- Invasive species have directly contributed to the decline of 49 percent of the nation’s threatened and endangered species.
In just the Great Lakes region, economic and environmental losses caused by aquatic invasive species are estimated to be as much as $5.7 billion annually. That’s greater than the 2006 Gross Domestic Product of more than 50 countries.
What The Nature Conservancy is Doing.
Solutions discovered in places where natural systems and commerce intersect, such as the Great Lakes, will provide a gateway to combating the global threat of alien invasive species. That’s why the Conservancy is working to find solutions that can be used in the Great Lakes and elsewhere.
At the heart of this initiative is our collaboration with the University of Notre Dame, which connects groundbreaking invasive species research with the Conservancy’s on-the-ground conservation. Our joint effort applies research directly toward the management and policy solutions needed to address the persistent threat of invasive species. Together we are developing powerful tools to educate the public, inform the debate about new public policy options and provide strategic guidance to decision makers about ways to manage invasive species. Read more about our Great Lakes program.
Action starts when people talk.
In the midst of dire scenarios about declining natural systems due to invasive species, there are reasons for hope and things we can do as individuals. First, start a conversation about this issue with your friends, family and colleagues. Take a look at our Conversation Starters related to invasive species for relevant and compelling facts. And, learn more about The Nature Conservancy’s work to combat invasive species by visiting our Invasives Initiative information.
