Arizona's breathtaking landscapes are home to a diverse array of native plants and animals, but amid this natural beauty lurks the threat of invasive species. These non-native organisms wreak havoc on our delicate ecosystems, posing dangers to wildlife, habitats, and even human health. Understanding and combating invasive species is crucial for preserving Arizona's natural places.

Efforts to mitigate invasive species are ongoing across Arizona, with organizations, agencies, and volunteers working tirelessly to combat these threats. You too can make a difference by joining volunteer programs like CAZCA's Desert Defenders, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's Save Our Saguaros, or the Catalina State Park Buffel Slayers. By getting involved, you can help protect our precious landscapes and the diverse life they support.

One particularly concerning invasive species is stinknet (Oncosiphon piluliferum), which poses a significant threat to Arizona's Sonoran Desert. Originally from South Africa, Stinknet has rapidly spread across our desert, displacing native plants and disrupting fragile ecosystems. Its prolific growth and abundant seed production make it a formidable foe that increases the risk of wildfires and outcompetes native species for increasingly limited vital resources. 

If you spot stinknet on your property, take action by removing it completely, including the roots, placing it in a bag, and disposing of it. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing its spread. Remember to wear gloves to avoid skin irritation while handling stinknet.

The battle against invasive species is ongoing, but with a collective effort, we can protect Arizona's beautiful places for future generations. Get involved by becoming a steward of the land. Together, we can preserve the beauty and biodiversity of our beloved state.

To learn about Arizona’s other invasive species, and how you can help make a difference, please visit AZStateParks.com/invasive-species.