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First I want to thank OPB for raising awareness about invasive species through the Silent Invasion documentary, the web site, this blog, and the Think Out Loud radio program. Raising awareness about invasive species helps encourage people to get involved in the conservation of biodiversity and habitat enhancement. If you would like to get involved in invasive plant removal efforts in the City of Portland, please see our web site with a list of upcoming events
http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/index.cfm?c=38304&a=146080

And I can't help but comment on Steve Herman's commentary. I'm sure he is well educated about invasive species and I hope in the future he can help us lead the battle against the most problematic invaders. Sometimes we have to look at the positive changes we can make within a much larger system. For example, Steve commented about cattle grazing on public lands and I appreciated Mandy's response; we might not be able to end grazing on public lands, however, if there are things we can do to reduce the impact on natural systems, then I think that's a good start.

A lot of these blog comments reflect the belief that if we can't change the entire system, does that mean we shouldn't try to make a difference? Not for me. If I can help prevent the next invader, then I am going to do that and I encourage others to do the same.

To keep the energy flowing, the City of Portland will be hosting an invasive species summit sometime this summer. Feel free to contact me if you want to be kept in the loop about the date, time, and agenda for this event.

Again, thanks to OPB and to everyone who has worked on this outreach campaign.

Jennifer
jennifer.goodridge@bes.ci.portland.or.us

posted 5 years ago
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