Invasive Species Awareness Week

From Great River and Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuges:

February 22-28 Is Invasive Species Awareness Week! One invasive species on our refuges, Reed Canary Grass, is native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia and North America and is adapted to much of the northern half of U.S. However, in North America, introduction of–and interbreeding with–European strains of reed canary grass has created an aggressive and invasive strain. It is a major threat to marshes and natural wetlands because of its hardiness, aggressive nature and rapid growth. It out competes most native species. Native wetland and wet prairie species are replaced after several years of reed canary grass presence. We continually work to control the spread of this invasive species.

For a list of ways you can help observe the week and for more information about activities, events and environmental education planned, go tohttp://www.nisaw.org/.