Invasive Species
The Invasive Species rule lists specific criteria that a plant or animal must meet in order to be considered invasive. The species must:
be non-native,
rapidly grow, establish and spread in minimally managed habitats,
have the biological potential to spread widely including across spatial gaps (unassisted by people),
exist in high numbers or large colonies in minimally managed habitats and
displace native species in minimally managed habitats.
In a lake community, we not only need to be on the lookout about what is growing on land, but what is growing in the water as well. Both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species exist here in Maine, and prevention and early management are essential to keeping these intruders at bay. If you are concerned about a potential invasive species on your property or one that you found in/around the lake, please report it to the appropriate agency. You can learn more about invasives and how to report them by clicking the button below:
Terrestrial Invasives
They may be lurking right in your garden! Pictured below is Asiatic Bittersweet and the Browntail Moth caterpillar.
Aquatic Invasives
They’re not always as they seem! Pictured here is Water Chestnut and the Chinese Mystery Snail.
