Information > Resources > Maryland Species of Concern lists

Maryland Species of Concern lists

The Species of Concern lists representative species that are, or have potential to be, invasive in Maryland. It is by no means an exhaustive list, but includes species of great concern to the Maryland Invasive Species Council (MISC). These lists include harmful non-native species of concern because they fit one or more of the following criteria: - Currently regulated by the state of Maryland or a local jurisdiction within Maryland - Currently regulated by federal law and present in Maryland - Widely recognized by biologists and resource managers to degrade natural ecosystems, or negatively affect native species - Known to have significant economic impacts on agricultural ecosystems, public infrastructure or natural resources, including impact on recreational activities - Causing or having the potential to cause deleterious effects on human health. MISC is highlighting only certain species. In fact, invasive species lists cannot be all-inclusive because of the evolving nature of the invasive species problem, and because expert opinions can differ about the harm caused by introduced species. Moreover, the MISC list is expected to change over time as new invasives are discovered. Note that the MISC list does not come from original research, but is a curated compilation of species listed by other sources. Do not depend on this list as the sole source for information on invasive species in Maryland. This list is designed as a guidance tool for: - On-the-ground routine management of existing invasive species - Identification and prioritization of emerging or established invasive species that require urgent action to control - Design, installation, and maintenance of landscaping - Regulatory prevention, quarantine, and enforcement activities by local, state, and federal agencies - Support of funding requests to the legislature, government agencies, and private organizations - Education of legislators, regulators, commercial plant and animal industries, non-profit and government environmental organizations, and the public The list does not have regulatory or legal status, and is expected to change over time as the process of invasive species identification and management continues.

In collections: