In This Section

Infrastructure

Because non-native species typically enter the United States through ports of entry in urban environments, some of the first observable impacts may be to infrastructure. In many cases, species that initially impacted infrastructure have had devastating impacts on ecological systems, agriculture, and/or fisheries when they spread into less modified landscapes and waterways. The United States currently lacks the comprehensive authority, or clarity of authority, necessary to effectively prevent, eradicate, and control invasive species that impact the human-built environment (“infrastructure”). This prevents rapid response to some of the most damaging invasive species. It also limits the ability of agencies to prioritize and allocate the resources necessary to control invasive species that threaten public security (e.g., zebra mussels [Dreissena polymorpha] incapacitating power plants and irrigation systems), undermine costly Federal programs (e.g., the Raspberry/tawny crazy ant [Nylanderia fulva], which has impacted electrical systems at the Port of Houston and NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston), and cause homeowners to incur substantial repair and maintenance costs (e.g., Formosan termite [Coptotermes formosanu]).

Was this page helpful?

Please provide a comment