Yo Pees Veal| naan aaa Ve oe How Hikers And Campers Can Help Nature (NAPSA)—Thenext time you enjoy the great outdoors, you can also help protect it from invasive pests that threaten to destroy America’s national parks andforests. These insects harm trees and plants, displace native species and disrupt ecosystems—costing the nation about $120 billion each year in damages. The pests come from other countries and can spread quickly, since they have few or no natural predatorshere. In particular, the United States DepartmentofAgriculture (USDA) asks outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of 19 destructive, invasive species known as HungryPests. That’s because these pests, which include the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle, are primarily spread in the things people move and pack. Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts Hikers and camperscan help protect the great outdoorsby following a few simpletips: *Before leaving for or from a campingtrip, remove mud anddirt from cars and recreational vehicles to prevent moving invasive pests andtheir eggs to new areas. Be sure to clean debris from tires and wheel wells, as well as tires on mountain or other bikes you mayuse. Likewise, clean dirt from shoes, boots, backpacks and other gear. Although it may be tempting, don’t bring back flowers, plants, leaves or other natural souvenirs discovered in the wild, as they could have invasive pests attached to them. Take photos instead and leave nature in nature. *If you’re planning to enjoy an outdoor campfire, remember, don’t a ’ i a The next time you go hiking or camping,follow USDA’s six tips to protect nature from invasive pests. move firewood. That’s the easiest way to spread invasive species that can be hiddeninside. *Use only wood that has been responsibly harvested near the place you plan to burn it. Alternatively, you can buy wood that has been heat-treated or certified as safe to use. Many national and regional parks no longerlet people bring in firewood from elsewhere. By doing so, you could not only face a hefty fine, but bring in pests that destroy the beautiful wild spaces you love. Gypsy moths eat more than 300 species of trees and shrubs. In the northeast quarter of the country, look for their egg masses attached to outdoor items, such as furniture you bring on your campingtrip. Even items stored in a shed or garage could hide them. Carefully remove and immerse egg masses in soapy water. If you spot any outside of quarantined areas, report them to state agriculturalofficials. Learn More For further facts and tips, go to HungryPests.com, or join the conversation on Facebook or Twitter.
