Mother Nature occasionally gives us an issue to deal with. In recent times we have seen alien species introduced into our environment. When introduced into an area with no natural predators, these species flourish and reproduce to the extent that they are now a problem. This in turn causes environmental stewards and natural resource managers to put resources into combating them so the natural species can survive.

As most of you are probably aware, Melvern Lake is inhabited with zebra mussels. These little crustaceans are taking over our shoreline and fixing themselves to anything underwater. This, in time, will cause problems for raw water intakes, boat motors, docks, swim beaches, etc. These critters are known as Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS). We must all use precautions to eradicate these individuals.

There are also Terrestrial Nuisance Species (TNS) like the emerald ash borer, gypsy moths, and sericea lespedeza that inhabit land based environments.

Check out the links below for more information on the above mentioned ANS and TNS pests and others that may be found in Kansas.

- KDWP ANS-

-Invasive Species-

-Kansas Forest Service Invasive Species-

-Emerald Ash Borer-

-Zebra Mussels-

-Sericea Lespedeza-