Georgia is known for its rich biodiversity, from the rolling Appalachian foothills through diverse agricultural acreage to the sprawling coastal marshes. But hidden within these landscapes is a growing challenge that threatens native wildlife, agriculture, and even recreation: invasive species.

What Are Invasive Species?

Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or organisms that are introduced, intentionally or accidentally, and cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. Unlike native species, they often lack natural predators or controls, allowing them to spread aggressively and disrupt the balance of Georgia’s ecosystems.

Invasive Species Making an Impact in Georgia

Georgia’s diverse ecoregions – each with unique climate patterns and native species –  make it especially vulnerable to a wide variety of invaders. Here are a few that pose a significant threat and require response: :

1. Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica)
This aggressive grass outcompetes native plants, alters fire regimes, and damages agricultural lands. It’s considered one of the world’s worst invasive species and has been found spreading across southern Georgia.

2. Feral Hogs (Sus scrofa)
Feral hogs are one of the most destructive species in the state wreak havoc on natural habitats, agricultural crops, forests, wetlands, and property. Their rooting behavior destroys native plant communities, increases erosion, and damages crops. They also pose a threat to water quality and carry diseases that impact wildlife, livestock, and human health.

3. Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula)
The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) poses a serious threat to Georgia’s agriculture, feeding on high-value crops like grapevines, peaches, apples, and plums, as well as native trees. Early detection is critical. SLF gathers in large numbers on tree trunks and plant stems, feeding on sap and weakening plants, which increases their vulnerability to other stressors. Their sugary honeydew promotes the growth of sooty mold—hard to remove and visually unpleasant. SLF lays egg masses on surfaces easily moved by people, making human-assisted spread a major concern. Their preferred host, the invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), is common across much of the U.S., including Georgia.

4. Yellow-Legged Hornet (Vespa velutina)
The Yellow-legged Hornet (YLH) was first discovered in Georgia in August 2023. If allowed to establish in the U.S., it could threaten honeybees and other essential pollinators. YLH feeds on a variety of insects, including pollinators that play a critical role in Georgia’s agriculture industry. Early detection and rapid response are key to eradicating this invasive species and protecting the state’s pollination-dependent crops.

5. Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)
A fast-growing aquatic plant, hydrilla clogs waterways, impedes boating and fishing, and depletes oxygen levels in lakes and rivers, affecting fish and other aquatic life.

Why Should Georgians Care?

Invasive species in Georgia threaten:

• Agriculture: Feral hogs cost farmers millions annually in crop loss and damages. And, first time occurrences of  yellow legged hornet and spotted lanternfly pose a serious threat to the state’s active agriculture industry.Native Wildlife: Invasive plants displace the native species that animals rely on for food and habitat.
• Outdoor Recreation: Invasive plants and animals reduce the quality of fishing, hunting, hiking, and boating experiences.
• Economy: Managing invasive species is costly for landowners, municipalities, and state agencies.
  

What Can You Do?

The good news? Everyone has a role to play in protecting Georgia’s landscapes:

1. PlayCleanGo® and CleanDrainDry®: Whether you’re hiking, boating, or hunting, always remove mud, seeds, and plant fragments before traveling to a new area.
2. Plant native: Choose Georgia-native plants for landscaping to support pollinators and reduce the risk of spreading invasives.
3. Report sightings: If you spot invasive species, report them to your local Cooperative Extension office or use platforms like EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System) managed by the University of Georgia’s Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health (UGA Bugwood Center).

Georgia’s Biodiversity Is Worth Protecting

Georgia’s forests, rivers, marshes, and mountains are home to thousands of native species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Agriculture is also a cornerstone of the state’s economy, with crops, livestock, and forestry supporting communities across Georgia. By working together to prevent the spread of invasive species, we can protect the natural heritage that makes Georgia unique, for today and for future generations.

Special thank you to UGA Bugwood Center for their help in constructing this article.