PlayCleanGo Awareness Week kicks off June 5-12

ByLocal Sources Reading Time: 2 minutes

National campaign shares simple steps outdoor recreationists can take to stop the spread of invasive species 

The Invasive Species Awareness Coalition of Dubois County (ISAC), the Daviess-Martin CISMA, and PlayCleanGo are excited to kick off the third annual PlayCleanGo Awareness Week, June 5 –12, 2021. A week dedicated to highlighting the importance of stopping the spread of invasive species, PlayCleanGo Awareness Week aims to educate recreationists on quick and easy ways to responsibly enjoy the outdoors without spreading invasive species or pests. 

“Invasive insects and plant diseases cost the U.S. an estimated $40 billion annually in damages to trees, plants, crops and related management efforts. They can threaten the economy, food supply, environment and in some cases, even public health,” says Emily Finch, the Invasive Species Specialist for the Dubois, Daviess, and Martin County Soil & Water Conservation Districts. “As people head outdoors, we want them to know that a little bit of prevention can go a long way, and there are easy steps everyone can take to prevent the spread of invasive species.”

Invasive species are a major threat to our native wildlife and ecosystems, with nearly 50 percent of endangered or threatened species at risk as the result of the spread. While often unintentional, people can spread invasive species with the items they move such as their boots, tires, boats, firewood, pets, horses and more.

Whether out on the trail, or biking in your local park, here are five easy steps you can take to stop the spread of invasive species:

  1. Clean your shoes, clothes, packs, and pets before and after exploring and stay on designated trails.
  2. Clean, Drain, and Dry your watercraft and angling equipment to Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!
  3. Don’t Move Firewood! Buy it where you burn it, buy certified heat-treated firewood, or gather on site when permitted.
  4. Before traveling to new areas, inspect and clean your trailers, off road vehicles, and recreational vehicles with water or compressed air to remove mud, plant parts, and hidden pests.
  5. Take the PlayCleanGo Pledge and invite your family and friends to do the same at PlayCleanGo.org.

For more information on what you can do to help stop the spread of invasive pests and to take the pledge, visit PlayCleanGo.org. Follow PlayCleanGo on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and resources.

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