The state’s departments of Environmental Conservation and Agriculture and Markets have released the draft Invasive Species Comprehensive Management Plan for public comment. The proposed plan is designed to minimize the introduction, establishment, and spread of invasive species throughout New York. Comments will be accepted through June 1.

Invasive species are non-native organisms that can cause harm to the environment, human health, and the economy. The draft plan identifies eight objectives to limit the negative impacts of invasive species:  

— Build partnerships and capacity while supporting effective ongoing programs;

— Develop a centralized framework for sharing invasive-species information;

— Set priorities for invasive-species management and preparedness;

— Engage and inform the public about invasive species;

— Advance prevention and early detection;

— Improve responsiveness to new invasions;

— Recover ecosystem resilience and services; and

— Evaluate and report progress, adapt to evolving circumstances.

The draft plan may be downloaded from the DEC website: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/265.html. Comments may be sent by email to or by postal mail to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Lands and Forests, Invasive Species Coordination Section, 625 Broadway, Floor 5, Albany, NY 12233-4253.