What is an Invasive Species?

A invasive species is any species that is nonnative to the ecosystem under consideration, and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm, or harm to human health, with the harm significantly outweighing any benefits.

Capital Region PRISM Tier List

How do Invasive Species Spread?

Invasive species can spread in a variety of ways, some of them are natural, but many are human assisted. Invasive species seeds and other materials can get on your gear and move from place to place!
Some other ways invasive can spread are:

• By tagging along on international trade
• Hitchhiking on vehicles (cars, boats, trains, etc.)
• Through storm events and via waterways
• Seeds or propagules attaching to your pets or wild animals

What are the impacts of Invasive Species?

Invasive species affect nearly every aspect of our world and represent one of the greatest known threats to the biodiversity of New York State. Their presence causes or contributes to:

• Habitat loss and degradation
• Loss of native fish, wildlife, and tree species
• Loss of recreational opportunities
• Crop damage and the loss of income
• Diseases in humans and livestock
• Risks to public health and safety

Invasive Species of New York

Invasive Species Tiers

High Priority Invasive Species Lists

Aquatic High Priority Invasive Species List

Terrestrial High Priority Invasive Species List

Forest Pest High Priority Invasive Species List

Agricultural High Priority Invasive Species List

The Invasion Curve and Tier List Defined

The Invasion Curve demonstrates that prevention is the most efficient and cost-effective method of controlling invasive species. As invasive species becomes more established over time, the effort and associated costs of addressing infestations increases significantly. The PRISM has delineated populations into a Tier System that follows the invasion curve. 
Tier list species are also determined using the NYS regulated/prohibited lists here. The New York State Natural Heritage Program has a comprehensive Statewide Tier List that shows the NYS regulatory status and the NYS Invasiveness Rankings. To view that page click here.                  

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​USDA Forest Service 2005 Invasive Plant Environmental Impact Statement

​Hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension.  Capital Region PRISM