Once a population of invasive species has been established, we have the option to ignore it or to control it by slowing its spread. Ignoring infestations can be expensive in the long run (for example, an infested tree costs much more to remove than a healthy one) and will have detrimental effects on the surrounding community. The quicker an infestation is identified, the easier and more cost-effective it will be to manage it.

To slow the spread of invasive species, there are three main forms of management to consider:

• Mechanical - hand-pulling, trapping, mechanical harvesting, cutting, mowing, digging, etc.
• Chemical - using both conventional and organic pesticides to eliminate an invasive population. 
• Biological - involves releasing a predator into a community to limit the growth of the invasive species' population. Biological controls are typically introduced into an area by scientists from their native environment. Extensive research is necessary before releasing biological controls. 

To learn more visit:

• Land Mangement
• Aquatic Gallery of Invaders
• Land Gallery of Invaders