Project Profile: Prevention/Islands: Traveler Education

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Invasive Species | FY24-25 - $200,000

Mangrove roots in Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. Mangroves are essential to the health of the islands.

Caroline Rogers

The National Park Service (NPS) will lead a collaborative effort with Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus and other partners to promote behaviors that will decrease the risk of spreading invasive species on islands. Education and outreach products will be developed with the goal of reaching the largest audience of island visitors possible. This project is part of a coordinated series of projects that focus on preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species on islands.

Why? Islands are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. They provide a habitat for many high-risk species. Islands are also very popular tourist destinations, but they are experiencing the effects of climate change. Protecting these islands from invasions helps prevent potential future invasions in other locations.

What else? The objective of this project is to increase invasive species prevention behaviors that will minimize the risk of spreading invasive species through education and outreach products that can be adopted through all DOI agencies. Research methods are tailored to specific audiences using social science to reach the largest audience of island visitors and develop specific outreach materials. Production of these materials that can be distributed by NPS and partners would be used to help support this project.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes critical investments in the resilience and restoration of America’s lands, skies, and waters, and enhances conservation and recreation opportunities. Visitors will see tangible results such as repaired and upgraded trails and campgrounds, removal of invasive species, as well as healthy wetlands, grasslands, and forests.