As National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) approaches at the end of February, local environmental groups are getting a head start on combating the spread of invasive species.
The Pelican Island Audubon Society and the City of Sebastian’s Natural Resources Board are organizing an “Air Potato Round-up” at Sebastian Stormwater Park on Saturday, February 8th.
The air potato plant, despite its heart-shaped leaves, is a highly invasive species that threatens our local ecosystems. This aggressive plant spreads rapidly through its aerial tubers, quickly overtaking land and smothering native vegetation. The Air Potato Round-Up aims to remove as much of the invasive plant as possible from the park, located at 297 Englar Road.
Volunteers are encouraged to sign up as individuals, groups, or teams for two-hour time slots between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., though participants are welcome to stay longer. Prizes will be awarded for the most effective removal efforts. The event is family-friendly and offers a hands-on opportunity for residents to learn about invasive species management.
This community effort to tackle the air potato problem comes as the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) is working to spotlight the risks posed by invasive species. NISAW is an international event that brings together local, state, federal, and regional organizations to discuss policies and strategies for preventing and managing these harmful species.
NAISMA emphasizes the importance of legislative action and increased capacity for invasive species managers to protect North America’s lands and waters, especially in the face of climate change and other environmental challenges.
“Governmental and legislative advocacy is only as strong as the constituents behind it,” said Mara Cunningham, Government Relations Manager for NAISMA. “We encourage organizations and individuals to support their representatives at the local and national levels to influence a dynamic approach to invasive species management and prevention.”
The air potato round-up in Sebastian serves as a local example of this advocacy, engaging the community directly in the fight against invasive species. Organizers hope the event will not only help control the spread of the air potato plant but also educate residents about the broader issue of invasive species and their impact on the environment and the economy.
Air Potato Round-Up:
- Saturday, February 8th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Address: 297 Englar Road in Sebastian
