The subject of invasive species is nothing new, but their increasing presence in the Boundary Waters is.
Nate Quadhamer is a conservation specialist with the Soil and Water Conservation District who is working directly with this infestation. "We work with federal, state, county agencies, as well as local partners to collaboratively address invasive species... it's a really effective way to make sure everyone's on the same page." Quadhamer also works with private landowners to assess invasives.
Purple loosestrife has been in the Boundary Waters for some time, but others, like garlic mustard, are newer arrivals. For Quadhamer, the approach for the public comes down to diligence and education. "Play Clean Go... clean your gear before and after you go and recreate... stay on designated roads and trails," says Quadhamer. "Just learn to identify the plants around you... start to understand which ones are important to the ecosystem."
More information is available at playcleango.org. There are also apps used for spotting and tracking invasives available online.
