REDDING, Calif. — California’s reputation for biodiversity and innovation is being challenged by invasive species, and state leaders say addressing the threat will require new tools, stronger coordination and greater public awareness.
California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross spoke Thursday morning during an invasive species discussion hosted by the California Natural Resources Agency.
“The people love this state, the bugs love this state, the plants love this state,” Ross said.
Sapna Thottathil, Deputy Director of the California Department of Pesticide Regulation said California needs to remain proactive in preventing and managing invasive species.
“We, the state, have to stay one step ahead. And I think this is where California can really shine. You know, we’re already known for environmental leadership and leadership in technology and innovation. You know, it’s up to us to support the innovation in this space, to turn out more biological tools, support the widespread adoption of new pest management,” she said.
Officials said invasive threats vary across the state. In Northern California, the primary concerns include invasive species in waterways.
At Turtle Bay, staff is working with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to help address those threats. Sharon Clay, Turtle Bay’s Curator of Animal Programs, described how the organization handles invasive species removed during lake cleanups.
“We work with California Fish and Wildlife and take in the invasive species that they get when they clean up the lakes. So if you come to Turtle Bay and go to our big river tank, you’re going to see all kinds of species that were all found in our waterways,” Clay said.
Clay also urged the public to take steps to protect local ecosystems, including not dumping pets into the wild, fishing responsibly, and considering how individual actions can affect the environment.
“To remember that when we put something– an animal, a plant, an insect– if we put something into our environment that is not naturally occurring, then negative or, you know, things can happen,” Clay said.
The California Natural Resources Agency is hosting a summit Oct. 1 and 2 to continue the invasive species conversation. This will be the first summit in five years.
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