Ecological forecasting: A strategic partnership to predict and manage biological invasions

Product Type: Science Feature

Year: 2005

Author(s): Stohlgren, T., J. Schnase, J. Smith, and J. Wilson

Pages: 2

Suggested Citation: Stohlgren, T., J. Schnase, J. Smith, and J. Wilson. 2005. Ecological forecasting: A strategic partnership to predict and manage biological invasions. http://www.fort.usgs.gov/resources/spotlight/EcoForecasting/default.asp.

Abstract

During the past century, thousands of non-native plants, animals, and pathogens have been introduced into all ecosystems in the United States. A growing number of these species have become "invasive," spreading at such a rapid rate that they have contributed to declines in native species and changes in ecosystem function. Invasive species incur substantial ecological, economic, and human health costs. In the U.S., this translates to an estimated $137 billion per year2, more than all other natural disasters combined. Increased human travel and trade, coupled with the changing types and patterns of environmental disturbance such as climate change and wildfire, are expected to exacerbate these impacts. Land and resource managers face the enormous challenge of identifying and locating invasive species in and around their jurisdictions, controlling what is already present, and preventing further proliferation or new invasions. The need has never been greater for an ecological forecasting capability that will address these urgent management needs and forestall what is in danger of becoming a disastrous trend.