MAINE, USA — Editor's note: The video above was published Feb. 27, 2024.
Invasive Species Awareness Week is officially in Mainers' back yard.
Democratic Gov. Janet Mills declared on Feb. 14 the week of Feb. 26 to March 3 as a time to recognize and learn about invasive species in the state. It coincides with the existing national event.
The week also comes alongside Browntail Moth Awareness Month in Maine, an invasive species that threatens trees and can cause an itchy a rash you might be all-to-familiar with (ouch).
But what makes a species "invasive"? Invasive species, like the browntail moth and beyond, are "aggressive non-native species... [that] grow and reproduce rapidly," and pose a threat to many aspects of Maine's environment, according to the State of Maine's website.
Invasive species broadly include plants, pests, marine invaders—think green crabs—and even fish.
These species impact industries reliant on the wellbeing of Maine's environmental health such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and outdoor recreation, to name a few.
In her proclamation, Mills urges residents to "recognize this observance and to promote knowledge and understanding of the threats posed by invasive species" in order to keep Maine's natural resources healthy and available for Mainers to enjoy.
To learn more about invasive species in Maine and how to report them, click here.