Water

Rivers and streams are a vital part of our environment. They give us water to drink, water for growing food, and homes for fish and wildlife, like salmon. They also provide places for fun activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. Keeping rivers and streams healthy is important for our communities and the environment.

However, invasive species, whether plants or animals, can harm the health of our waterways. Invasive weeds take over streambanks, pushing out native plants that protect the soil from erosion. Without strong roots to hold the banks together, erosion increases, and sediment enters streams causing poor water quality, and covering spawning areas for native fish. Sediment buildup and flooding can also cause big problems for people beyond the rivers and streams.

Fast-growing invasive plants can also outcompete young trees on the streambank. The weeds keep the trees from growing large enough to provide shade and protect water from warming. Water that is too warm loses its ability to hold oxygen, which can cause problems for fish and other aquatic wildlife.

Invasive weeds that grow in the water make rivers and streams less usable. They can clog boat propellers and motors, tangle fishing gear, and block pipes and pumps. When these plants die, they release nutrients in the water that increase algae growth.  Both algae and decomposing plants use up oxygen in the water, which can harm fish and wildlife.

Invasive species, other than plants, can also cause water quality problems.  Our friends at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife keep close tabs on the movement of aquatic invasive species.