- Categories:
- Animal
- Tags:
- EnvironmentWildlife
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Week starting with the 4th Monday of February
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National Invasive Species Awareness Week takes place every year during the fourth full week of February, running from Monday, February 23 to Friday, February 27, 2026. This vital observance sheds light on the serious threats posed by non-native plants, animals, and pathogens to our ecosystems and economy. Learn how to identify, prevent, and control invasive species, and discover ways to contribute to a healthier, more biodiverse environment.
Want to sponsor National Invasive Species Awareness Week? Learn how
Expected National Invasive Species Awareness Week Deals
As a cause-driven observance, National Invasive Species Awareness Week focuses on education, advocacy, and community action rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA), the USDA, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will host webinars, workshops, and volunteer events to raise public awareness. Expect local conservation groups and botanical gardens to offer educational programs on identifying and removing invasive plants. Many nurseries and garden centers may promote native plant alternatives and provide resources on responsible gardening practices. We encourage individuals to visit NAISMA.org for official event listings and ways to get involved in protecting our natural heritage.
Platform Guide for National Invasive Species Awareness Week
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NISAW. Share quick facts, alarming statistics, and prevention tips to spread awareness rapidly.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NISAW. Join community discussions on local invasive species and share success stories of removal efforts.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NISAW. Post compelling visuals of invasive species, their impact, and the beauty of native ecosystems.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week Hero
David Pimentel
History of National Invasive Species Awareness Week
The National Wildlife Federation defines invasive species as any living organism that is not natural to the ecosystem. It causes damage, including to plants, animals, bacteria, fungus, and even seedlings. These species are recognized predators as they reproduce and grow rapidly, taking over an ecosystem/host plant. In 2015, the first National Invasive Species Week was held, bringing together various groups to promote awareness of invasive species and encourage people to limit their spread.
In late February, delegates from local, statewide, and regional organizations convene in Washington, D.C., to discuss invasive species prevention and management legislation, policies, and possible improvements. Partners organize events across the nation to enlighten the general public and political representatives about how they can help limit the presence of invasive species. The North American Invasive Species Management Association is in charge of the week.
By joining the National Invasive Species Awareness Week sponsorship program, you can assist in raising the profile of invasive species specialists and organizations among policymakers and agency officials in Washington, DC, and around the United States. Sponsors and contributors are critical to NAISMA’s ability to organize and execute outreach advocacy efforts and improve the public and elected officials’ perception of invasive species concerns.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week timeline
The importation and release of several species, including the house sparrow and gypsy moth, become widespread.
The Alien Species Prevention and Enforcement Act states that the transportation of animals or plants considered dangerous is illegal.
NAISMA provides support (training, outreach, and building networks across diverse jurisdictions and stakeholders) to professionals concerned with invasive species control.
The National Invasive Species Act is released to prevent invasive species from entering inland waters.
A voluntary management program by the U.S. Coast Guard is put in place to minimize the transfer of harmful organisms or pathogens.
The ballast water management program is a standard for ships crossing into the United States.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Invasive Species Awareness Week
Local businesses can actively support National Invasive Species Awareness Week by educating their customers and employees. Garden centers can host workshops on native plant alternatives and offer discounts on responsibly sourced, non-invasive species. Outdoor gear retailers can provide information on cleaning equipment to prevent the spread of aquatic invasives. Restaurants can highlight locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing the importance of protecting regional ecosystems from harmful invaders. Partnering with local conservation groups for cleanup or educational events also offers a meaningful way to engage.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week FAQs
When is National Invasive Species Awareness Week?
National Invasive Species Awareness Week 2027 is observed from Monday, February 22, to Friday, February 26. This annual event serves as a call to action against ecological threats.
What is the economic impact of invasive species?
Globally, invasive species are responsible for significant economic losses, with some estimates placing the annual cost in the hundreds of billions of dollars. They disrupt industries and strain resources dedicated to prevention and eradication.
How do invasive species spread?
The primary vectors for invasive species spread include shipping, travel, and the movement of goods. Ballast water in ships, contaminated nursery stock, and even hiking boots can carry seeds or organisms to new environments, allowing them to establish and proliferate.
What's the difference between native, non-native, and invasive species?
A native species is indigenous to a region, having evolved there over time. A non-native species is simply one introduced to an area outside its historical range. An invasive species is a subset of non-native species that outcompetes native flora and fauna, altering habitats and causing detrimental impacts.
How to Observe National Invasive Species Awareness Week
Visit the Bugwood Center
Located in the University of Georgia’s Tifton Campus, the Bugwood Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health is an excellent place to celebrate NISAW. The center was created to further invasive species control, forest health, and integrated pest management.
Post on social media
Support the movement on social media platforms. Look out for educational content and share it with your network.
Research invasive species
The week is an excellent opportunity to improve your knowledge of invasive species. Familiarize yourself with invasive species in your region and learn how to limit their spread. Share your research with family and friends and let them join in on the cause.
5 Facts About Invasive Species That Will Blow Your Mind
One man’s garbage…
Several species like the red squirrel, which are endemic to the United States, are considered invasive in other countries.
Eating up the big bucks
In 1993, the OTA released an estimate stating that over $100 million goes into aquatic weed control for invasive species annually.
Rat attack
According to a 2001 report, the United States Department of Agriculture states that invasive rat species are responsible for over $19 billion in annual damages.
Heavy fines
Transporting firewood is among the ways humans inadvertently spread invasive species — defaulters all over the Eastern United States faced penalties of a 25-year jail term and a $1-million fine.
Extreme measures
Chicago’s Sanitary and Ship Canal has an electric barrier to deter the movement of Asian carp into Great Lakes such as Lake Michigan.
Why National Invasive Species Awareness Week is Important
Raising awareness about invasive species
National Invasive Species Awareness Week helps enlighten the public and relevant authorities about invasive species and the inevitable damage they cause to our ecosystem. By doing so, people can help prevent the spread of invasive species.
Inspiring action against invasive species
National Invasive Species Awareness Week is a time for constructive conversation and proactive action against invasive species. It is an opportunity for concerned individuals and parties to support initiatives and policies limiting their spread.
Saving the ecosystem
National Invasive Species Awareness Week and concerned partners organize a series of events to mark the holiday. These events emphasize the need for conscious effort to combat the decline of vibrant ecosystems.
National Invasive Species Awareness Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | February 23–27 | Monday–Friday |
| 2027 | February 22–26 | Monday–Friday |
| 2028 | February 28–March 3 | Monday–Friday |
| 2029 | February 26–March 2 | Monday–Friday |
| 2030 | February 25–March 1 | Monday–Friday |
Social Media Tips for National Invasive Species Awareness Week
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