Preserving Biodiversity How You Can Help The preservation of biodiversity is important to the health of our planet. This is a list of things you can do to help. 1. The biggest threat to biodiversity on the planet is not the destruction of the rain forests, as terrible as that is. The threat that should alarm us the most is the invasion in all parts of the world, from plants from other parts of the world. In new settings, the exotic invaders have very few natural enemies to keep them in check. Furthermore, the addition of these natural enemies into a new environment is not always a solution, and constitutes the addition of another invasive species! Take this invasion as seriously as though it were a foreign army. It is! Constant vigilance is needed. Learn what is native and what is not, and if you see anything out of the ordinary, find out what it is, and contact the appropriate authorities. 2. Use native plants in your landscape. They have many advantages, including resistance to native pests, acclimation to local weather and soil conditions, tolerance for your local rainfall amounts, and they will not break out and swallow the forests and lakes. 3. If you simply must have that non native plant in your landscape, please make sure that it is not invasive! Check with the state agency in charge of your states "prohibited exotic species list" to make sure that your little botanical jewel is not a voracious invader. Don't rely on the plants seller for this information. One of the largest chain stores for nursery supplies was selling a prohibited species only a short time ago. Remember, it is not only improper, it may be illegal. The fine in my state for harboring or transporting anything on the prohibited exotic species list is $ 500.00 per plant! 4. Clean all your gear after every outdoor excursion, including boats and four wheel drives. Check clothing tents, bedding, vehicles, and pets for hitch hikers before you leave the area! This is a short list, I will try to add more. If you have thoughts or suggestions, email us, and we will be happy to share. We have launched a blog in conjunction with this site. If you would like to comment there, feel free to do so at: True Green Solutions Blog.
|
