Invading Species Awareness
The era of globalization has caused many species to become introduced outside of their natural ranges, and many have found success and established successfully. Species that are introduced to a new environment are known as exotic species, unless they cause harm to the new system, in which case they then become known as invasive species.
Trade and worldwide travel have created many new opportunities for these species to become established. Routes by which invasive species are introduced are known as pathways. Whether pathways happen on a large scale (cargo ships crossing the ocean) or a small scale (not cleaning boots before hiking in new area) they can both have serious impacts on native systems.
Outdoor recreationalists are often responsible for introducing these species to new areas, but luckily there are some simple things we can all do to reduce the spread! Invasive species are excellent hitchhikers, and can attach themselves to the pants, shoes, fur, and bags of well-meaning adventurers. It's important to follow Play Clean Go's easy steps to be a responsible outdoorsman as invasive species are the second largest threat to biodiversity.
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