Make a New Year’s Resolution that Matters: Take the Pledge to Protect
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to commit to something that benefits both you and the environment: protecting our lands and waters from invasive species.
Did you know that everyday activities like boating, fishing, hiking, gardening, or even bringing firewood to a campsite can unintentionally spread invasive species? These non-native plants and animals harm ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt habitat health. Once they take hold, they outcompete native species and are extremely difficult to remove.
The good news? You can make a difference with simple actions, such as:
- – Clean, drain, and dry your watercraft after every use.
- – Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash when fishing.
- – Brush off your boots before hitting the trail.
- – Plant native species in your garden.
- – Source local firewood for campsites and fireplaces.
These small steps help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the places you love for generations to come.
To get more tips like these, take the Pledge to Protect!
The Pledge to Protect, created by the St. Lawrence–Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM), is designed to inspire and empower you to safeguard your favorite outdoor spaces. When you take the pledge, you’ll become a Protector and receive:
- Monthly email tips with easy actions to reduce invasive species spread.
- Chances to win prizes for completing suggested activities.
- Access to toolboxes for five key categories: gardens, communities, waters, forests, and lands & trails. Each toolbox includes:
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- – Common invasive species to watch for.
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- – Best management practices.
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- – Community science opportunities.
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- – Prevention methods and helpful apps.
“Ready to start the year with a positive impact? Sign up at iPledgeToProtect.org or scan the QR code to join the movement.”
About SLELO PRISM
The St. Lawrence–Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM) is one of eight PRISMs that span the state of New York. SLELO PRISM is hosted by The Nature Conservancy and was formally recognized by NYS in 2011.
The PRISM network stemmed from recommendations from the NYS Invasive Species Task Force in 2005 and became fully established in 2014. PRISMs are funded by the NYS Environmental Protection fund in coordination with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and various partners. PRISMs have made tremendous progress towards preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species and mitigating the impacts of existing invasive species within the state.