Caring for the environment starts right here in our own backyard. Whether it's protecting our rivers, removing invasive plants, or supporting biodiversity, there are many simple, hands-on ways to make a lasting impact. From volunteering with local programs to making everyday sustainable choices, your actions matter. Explore how you can get involved and be part of the solution.
EDRR stands for Early Detection Rapid Response, this is a protective approach to detect invasive species and response quickly to contain, control and prevent the spread of a new or rare invasive species. EDRR is critical when responding to invasive species because it increases the likelihood of containment and eradication while decreasing the long-term control costs.
When looking at invasive species, we are always referring to the bell-curve. The invasion curve starts with prevention, this is the most important stage of weed control because it has the highest economic return, and keeps invasive species absent by raising awareness. The next stage is eradication; you have localized populations in small numbers and eradication is still possible. After eradication we have containment; eradication starts to become unlikely, and the economic costs begin to arise very quickly. EDRR falls in between eradication and containment. The last part of the invasion curve is the long-term management and resource protection. This is when invasive species are widespread and abundant. So how can you help? You can call your local Agriculture and Environmental Department if you have an unknown species on your property, get involved in community weeds pulls and down EDDMaps. Stay tuned for Weed Wednesday post to learn more about the benefits of this app and how to use it!
This is an app used for EDRR (Early Detection Rapid Response). It is a documenting, web-based mapping system for invasive pests and plant species. It has local and national distribution maps, a library of identification and management information. It is fast, easy to use, and all reports will be checked by a verifier. You can mark your location using a pin or a polygon and upload photos of the specimen.
Participants can submit their findings and observations through interactive queries into the database where you can maintain your personal records. Your submissions will be reviewed by a verifier prior to appearing on maps. Once verified, this data is available to researchers, scientists, educators, conservationists, farmers, ecologists, foresters, agricultural fieldmen and parks. You can create a profile through the app or upload your files on the computer.