Help Curb Invasive Species This Fall With Wild Spotter

by
posted on October 17, 2018
wild-spotter-website.jpg

“Our public lands under attack," says Pat Conzemius, Executive Vice President of Wildlife Forever. But for once, it's not human activity that's in question: It's about invasive species. Continues Conzemius, "Invasive species are contributing to fires and habitat loss around the country." The problem is (as always) that there is so much public land, and so few scientists and government surveyors to examine it. That's why, this fall, hunters, hikers and backpackers are encouraged to check out Wild Spotter. Launched in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, University of Georgia and Wildlife Forever, Wild Spotter helps identify, map and report invasive species to better assist the Forest Service with managing public lands.

"Sportsmen and women have long been on the front lines of conservation so Wild Spotter is a perfect stewardship program to use to engage and protect our favorite places,” continues Conzemius. In just over six months, Wild Spotter has been downloaded and used by hundreds of people hunting, fishing, hiking or simply exploring national forests. Field reports of invasive species are coming in to managers on a regular basis, helping to locate problem areas. Endorsed by dozens of conservation groups from around the country, the program leverages countless tools such as a free mobile app, Facebook page, website and training materials for anyone to become an official “Wild Spotter.”

Piloted on 12 National Forests from coast to coast, Wild Spotter appeals to citizen scientists, recreationists, volunteer groups and youth clubs venturing outdoors and looking to help protect their favorite wild places from aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. New ‘wild places’ and partner organizations can join the Wild Spotter program at any time. Looking to learn more and become an official Wild Spotter? Visit the website at www.WildSpotter.org; follow along on Facebook; and download the free Wild Spotter app for Apple and Android devices.

 

Latest

life.jpg
life.jpg

Trigger Control: How to Make Every Shot Count

From tactical to smallbore competition to big game, success depends on trigger control.

3 Welcome Surprises of Concealed Carry

What the author thought were invisible hurdles to CCW turned out to be welcome surprises ... you may find the same!

11 Things You Need In Your Survival Kit

Nobody ever plans to get lost in the woods; it just happens...and it can happen even to experienced outdoors people.

Rising Shooting Stars: Benjamin Holliger

He made the Top 20 at the 2022 National Matches ... at the age of just 15. What are his secrets?

Fun Friday: Pulp Fiction "Pumpkin" Revolver

A Hollywood moment that subverts the "Chekhov's Gun" trope...or does it?

5 Reasons To Wear Ear Protection Even While Hunting

The face of hunting has changed, so the face of hunters ought to as well.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.