Our Mission

The New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission “To prevent the spread of emerging invasive species across the state of NJ”.

The Strike Team uses the method of Early Detection & Rapid Response (ED/RR) to find and destroy new populations of invasive plants, animals and pathogens before they become widespread and cause significant ecological damage to our forests thereby preventing their negative impacts.  We all know the serious impacts created by Japanese Barberry, Eurpoean gypsy moth and hemlock wooly adelgid and approximately 50 other widespread invasive species. 

The problem continues to expand through the introduction of new invasive species and continuous changes to our climate and landscape. If left unchecked, these new invaders will assure that their already-significant impacts will become considerably worse in the future. Through cooperative efforts, we can thwart over 100 additional invasive species that threaten our state's forests, grasslands, ponds and streams. 

What does the Strike Team do?

  • Search and document emerging invasive species
  • Perform eradications on emerging invasive species
  • Display data on an interactive map
  • Education programs- workshops & field trainings
  • Fee-for-service work

Where does the Strike Team work?

The Strike Team owns no land so we have the ability to work anywhere across the state. We have a northern, central and southern region.

The support of our members provides us the opportunity to deliver our mission far more expansively than we could achieve on our own. 

Insects benefit from native nectar plants.

Our Goals

  • Serve as data clearinghouse for all emerging invasive species in NJ
  • Directly assist public and private land owners in detecting & eradicating invasive species
  • Education to encourage voluntary restrictions for the production and purchase of invasive species

Search your county, town or property. Find out which invasive species are taking over your area.

Callery Pear

This popular landscape plant is a highly invasive meadow invader.
  • small tree with a "lollipop" shape branch structure
  • white, showy flowers are in full bloom mid-late March
  • small speckled fruits ripen in the fall