Fight against Invasive Species in Oregon, Jan. 17

An annual report card from the Oregon Invasive Species Council shows the state slipped last year in its fight against invasive species. According to a news release from the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the report card shows an overall “B-“ grade. An “A-“ grade was given to “Keeping Invasive Species Out of Oregon,” while a “D+” pulled the overall average down because of “Planning and Coordination”. According to the report, “Survey and eradication programs against Japanese beetle, zebra mussel, giant hogweed, feral swine, and other species on the 100 Worst Invaders list continue. 9,524 gypsy moth traps were set resulting in detection of an infestation near Grants Pass. 7,441 boats were inspected, with a compliance rate of 72.8%. 289 boats were decontaminated due to invasive plants or animals (17 for quagga/zebra mussels). Since 2008, 477 feral swine have been removed in Central Oregon. Funding cuts threaten to undermine the effectiveness of taxpayer-funded invasive species programs. The grade could be improved next year by increasing the number of boats inspected and the number of other invasive species surveys conducted in the state; and by increasing efforts dealing with vectors of introduction.”