Invasive species are organisms that are non-native to an ecosystem and whose introduction causes economic, social, or environmental harm. Nearly every terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic ecosystem in the United States has been invaded by non-native species, with economic losses estimated at $137 billion per year. NIFA is actively engaged in the battle against invasive species through leadership, grant opportunities, and collaboration with partners.
NIFA is leading the implementation of the National Invasive Species Management Plan, funding from Section 406 Pest Management Programs, and grant opportunities offered through the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program. NIFA also has established the National Animal and Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Networks, and the IPM Pest Information System for Extension and Education (ipmPIPE) for the early detection and rapid response against invasive species that pose a high agricultural or biosecurity risk. In addition, NIFA provides annual Hatch formula funding of Agricultural Experiment Station projects and administers special grants related to invasive species.