Biologists say there are more invasive species in Alaska than ever before

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Plants and animals that aren’t indigenous to Alaska are called invasive species, and they can harm the natural environment.

Now, wildlife and plant biologists across the state are saying the issue is worse than ever before.

“We’re kind of facing the most invasive species we’ve ever faced in Alaska, just with increased travel for both locals and visitors,” said Tim Stallard, an invasive species manager and consultant in Anchorage. “There are more threats and invasive species present than we’ve ever seen before.”

Stallard, who works with various public agencies, identifies and mitigates invasive plant species.

“People planted these originally as an ornamental,” said Stallard, pointing to an area of Anchorage’s Chester Creek Trail where the Mayday tree has eliminated the presence of all other plants. “They’re very cold hearty. They grow well here in Anchorage.”

Not only are they annoying, but the Mayday trees are poisonous to moose, Stallard said, and can reduce a healthy food supply for fish.

“In this little area, there’s no food for moose,” he said. “Our native trees contribute a lot of insects to our streams that the baby salmon eat. These trees contribute a few insects but support a lot lower, fewer different species and a lower number. If more areas are allowed to become a monoculture like this, there’s a concern for salmon food availability.”

The European bird cherry, or Mayday tree, is an example of a greater, more serious problem in Alaska.

“It’s very serious,” Stallard said. “Alaskans, we’re so tied in to our natural environment. We rely on our natural resources for our jobs, for employment, for fun, for culture, for food. Everybody in different ways but we all rely on and value our natural resources.”

There are about 50,000 invasive species in Alaska, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The ADF&G has advice, and a list of laws, people are encouraged, or required, to follow when knowingly, or unknowingly, interacting with invasive species.

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