National Parks - Sol Margin Fishing & Conservation Foundation University

Who are NPCA & NPS
Invasive Species Overview
What Makes a Good Invader?
How Do They Spread?
Impacts – Case Studies
How Can You Advocate?

Invasive species are a leading cause of biodiversity loss worldwide, outcompeting native plants and animals for resources, altering habitats, and introducing diseases. Their spread is often accelerated by human activities like global trade and habitat modification.

In national parks, invasive species disrupt ecological balance by altering food webs and diminishing native populations. For instance, invasive plants can overshadow native vegetation, reducing available habitat for wildlife and impacting species dependent on those plants. This disruption decreases biodiversity and makes ecosystems less resilient to environmental changes.

The economic impact of invasive species is significant, leading to increased management costs for national parks and surrounding communities. Their presence may necessitate expensive eradication efforts, restoration projects, and ongoing monitoring. Additionally, they can negatively affect recreational activities, such as fishing and hiking, by degrading natural landscapes and diminishing wildlife populations, ultimately reducing tourism revenue for local economies reliant on these parks.

OUR EVENT SPEAKER

Dr. Vanessa Trujillo is the Senior Conservation Program Manager at the National Parks Conservation Association, where she leads conservation efforts across Florida, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Originally from North Florida, she holds a Ph.D. in Conservation Biology from Florida International University. Her work focuses on uniting stakeholders to protect biodiversity, advocate for climate resilience, and preserve cultural resources. With leadership experience in Miami-Dade County Parks, she is dedicated to connecting people with parks through advocacy, public engagement, and civic workshops at both the state and national levels.

Dr. Vanessa Trujillo

Senior Conservation Program Manager

National Parks Conservation Association