Naturalist says Illinoisans can help slow spread of invasive species

(The Center Square) – An invasive species expert is calling on the public to help slow the spread of intruders in Illinois.

The University of Illinois Extension notes that the state’s centralized location and extensive transportation networks provide many ways for pests to arrive.

Chris Evans is an Extension Forestry and Research Specialist with Illinois Extension based in southern Illinois.

“There is some level of negative consequence for the fact that they are on the landscape so that’s really what makes them invasive is that they alter the habitat, the ecosystem, something in a way that impacts our native species or the functioning of our ecosystem,” said Evans on the Everyday Environment podcast.

University of Illinois Extension staff have been monitoring the spread and impact of the invasive Emerald ash borer since it first arrived in the state in 2006. The invasive beetle is the main reason why Illinois does not allow firewood to be transported more than 50 miles.

“Our native ash trees have zero ability to resist them and so what we’re seeing is the ash borer is basically wiping out an entire genus of trees,” said Evans.

The Emerald ash borer is responsible for the death of an estimated 250 million ash trees across North America. Another pest discovered in Illinois last year that is raising concerns is the Spotted Lanternfly, which is also harmful to trees.

Evans said Illinoisans can help by actively surveying for invasive species whenever outdoors and reporting sightings through EDDMaps or iNaturalist .

“Identifying and mapping and letting somebody know will really help us develop those priorities and know where the hotspots are that we need to focus on,” said Evans.