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Western US Governors Take Aim At Worst Invasive Species

DENVER (AP) — Western U.S. governors have compiled their first region-wide list of the worst invasive species for their states.

 

The Western Governors' Association Thursday released a compilation of 50 pests ranging from weeds and wild boars to insects and amphibians.

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The governors want to prioritize efforts to defend against the intruders.

 

Pests that have been in the headlines before include water-gulping salt cedar trees and quagga mussels, which clog water and sewer pipelines.

 

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Others may be surprises, including feral cats.

 

At least two diseases made the list: white nose syndrome, which infects bats, and whirling disease, which attacks fish.

 

The association says salt cedars are the worst land-based invasive species. The Eurasian watermilfoil is the worst in the water.

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The list is based on a survey of state invasive species coordinators.