Invasive Species in Minnesota

Invasive species are species that are not native to Minnesota and cause economic, social, or environmental harm, or harm to human health.

Minnesota's natural resources are threatened by a number of invasive species such as common buckthorn, and emerald ash borer. Invasive species can occur on land or in the water.

The DNR works to help prevent the spread and promote the management of invasive species.

How to identify and manage invasive plants
There are many invasive plants of concern in Minnesota. Learn which plants to be on the lookout for and what to do if you find them by visiting the MN DNR updated invasive plants page.

Prevent the spread
The best way to protect our natural areas from terrestrial invasive species is to prevent the spread of new invasives.

• Prevent the spread of terrestrial invasive species »
  How you can stop the spread of terrestrial invasive species.
• Early detection and rapid response »
  Learn about importance on early detection and how to report invasive species in Minnesota.
• Report it »
  Learn how to report invasive species finds in Minnesota.
• Work Cleanly »
  How contractors, grantees, and permittees can prevent the spread when working on state lands.
• Landscape Alternatives (PDF) »
  Learn about landscape alternatives for invasive plants of the midwest

Don't take firewood along for the ride
Help protect Minnesota's trees. Harmful, invasive diseases and pests can be lurking in firewood. Buy local firewood to avoid moving these unwanted hitchhikers. If you enjoy camping, you probably enjoy having an evening fire. Unwanted pests called invasive species are easily and unknowingly moved when you move firewood. To make sure trees are here for generations in the future, we need to slow the spread of harmful tree insects and disease. You can do this by buying firewood close to where you will burn it; buying certified firewood; or gathering wood on site where permitted. Read on to find out more about what kinds of firewood may be brought into state parks and state forests.

Sourced from MN Department of Natural Resources & the University of Minnesota