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News Brief

June 28, 2023Des Moines, Iowa |  By: Jeremy Werner

State officials warn about invasive species this holiday weekend

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DES MOINES, Iowa - With people traveling all over the area this upcoming holiday weekend, officials are reminding people about the threats posed by invasive species such as emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle, spongy moth, and oriental bittersweet.

These invasive species not only compete with and destroy native trees but also disrupt the natural habitat system, endangering woodlands, wildlands, and waterways that attract countless tourists and outdoor enthusiasts each year.

The spread of invasive species often occurs unknowingly, as they hitch rides on wood, outdoor gear, shoes, and clothes.

To combat this, ensure that the plants you purchase for your yard or garden are not invasive, check for spongy moth egg masses on outdoor equipment, clean your boots before and after hiking in a new area, and avoid buying or selling firewood from outside your county.