This Week’s Report: Invasive Species

Plants and animals that are not native to the United States have invaded many areas of the country, including some of the most environmentally sensitive.

In the Florida Everglades, for example, thousands of giant Burmese pythons –the offspring of pets released illegally by owners – are killing native animals, and wildlife officials have spent millions of dollars trying to eradicate them. In some areas, climate change has allowed invasive as well as native species to spread rapidly and wreak environmental havoc.

This week, veteran environmental reporter Jennifer Weeks covers the full range of issues on this fascinating and important topic. Environmental policy, science, ethics and governance classes can especially benefit from the report.

--Thomas J. Billitteri, Managing Editor