What Invasive Species Are Hurting Montana?

No ecosystem is safe from the impact of invasive species, and with the level of national and international travel today, preventing the spread of non-native plants, diseases, and animals is nearly impossible. Montana's diverse landscape faces ongoing threats from these invaders, which can disrupt local ecosystems, outcompete native species, and alter natural habitats.

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has put strategies in place to slow their spread, but the challenge remains a reality. Awareness and proactive action are key to protecting Montana's fragile ecosystem.

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Here's a list of 3 invasive plants and animals in the state to keep an eye out for. 

Zebra Mussels
These little critters may seem harmless, but in reality they have major impacts. They are one of the major species that Montana searches for during watercraft checkpoints. They clog up pipes for hydropower, irrigation, water treatment plants, and compete with local species.

"The potential economic damages if dreissenid mussels were to colonize all water bodies in Montana totaled $72.4 to $121.9 million in mitigation costs, $23.9 to $112.1 million in lost revenue, and $288.5 to $497.4 million in property value losses." - Nanette M. Nelson, M.S., Research Economist Flathead Lake Biological Station, University of Montana

Saltcedar
I love plants, but not these. Saltcedar is considered a big threat here in Montana because it pushes out native species like cottonwood and willows, increases soil salinity, and drinks tons of water with its deep roots. It can also drastically change landscapes, such as stream channels. So far, it has been found along the Missouri and Yellowstone.

Feral Pigs
Wild hogs are incredibly destructive—I know this firsthand from growing up in the South. They wreak havoc on crops, spread disease, and even prey on other wildlife, including ground-nesting species like wild turkeys. These invasive animals will eat just about anything they can find.

I was shocked to learn that Montana could face this problem, but there have already been reported sightings, though no established populations yet. The concern is serious enough that there's a campaign called "Squeal on Pigs!" urging people to report any sightings. With our neighbors in North Dakota and Saskatchewan already dealing with wild hog invasions, Montana is staying vigilant.

Credit: Mt.Gov