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CARLISLE -- Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources secretary Cindy Adams Dunn joined officials from across the Shapiro Administration to spotlight efforts to combat invasive species and restore native ecosystems during the Invasive Replace-ive event hosted by the Governor's Invasive Species Council at the Cumberland County Conservation District.
The event brought together leaders from DCNR, Department of Agriculture, Pennsylvania Game Commission and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to highlight how replacing invasive plants with native species helps restore habitat, protect wildlife, and promote biodiversity. Participants received native plants to support restoration efforts in their own landscapes -- part of a series of five Invasive Replace-ive events held across the Commonwealth this spring, all of which quickly reached capacity.
These events reflect Governor Shapiro's commitment to protecting Pennsylvania's natural resources, engaging communities, and fostering healthier ecosystems across the state.
The event also builds momentum for Pennsylvania Native Species Day, which will be celebrated statewide on May 20, 2025. The Shapiro Administration encourages local communities, organizations, and residents to host their own events throughout May to raise awareness and celebrate the vital role native species play in sustaining ecosystems.
"Native species are vital to healthy ecosystems in Pennsylvania," said Secretary Dunn. "When invasive plants take hold, they disrupt food chains and leave wildlife with fewer resources to survive. Through programs like Invasive Replace-ive, we're not only removing harmful species -- we're rebuilding natural systems that support pollinators, wildlife, and people."
"Pennsylvania is home to 480 species of native birds and mammals, all of which depend on native ecosystems to survive," said Timothy R. Haydt, Director, Bureau of Wildlife Habitat Management, PGC. "Invasive species disrupt these ecosystems statewide highlighting the importance of working with agency partners and the public to ensure healthy native habitats for wildlife now and in the future."
"Invasive trees and shrubs take over farm fields, landscapes, and forests, choking out native species and harboring ticks and harmful pests like spotted lanternflies," said PDA Deputy Secretary Fred Strathmeyer, Jr. "Replacing invasives with beneficial natives is one way homeowners can eliminate threats to their farming neighbors and attract pollinators that will continue to benefit farms and beautify Pennsylvania landscapes for years to come."
"Native species are an essential part of life in Pennsylvania, including in our aquatic ecosystems," said Tim Schaeffer, Executive Director, PFBC. "These native fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants bring our waters to life, and where managed and protected responsibly, provide incredible recreational value and sustenance. Many of these delicate species are also nature's best indicators of clean water, which is beneficial to everyone."