The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) announces the return of National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) from February 23–27, 2026.

DUBUQUE, Iowa, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) announces the return of National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) from February 23–27, 2026, bringing together leaders from government agencies, Tribal nations, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and community groups for the nation's largest cross-sector effort to prevent and manage invasive species.

With this year's theme, "Defending Our Health by Stopping the Spread," NISAW 2026 highlights the undeniable link between invasive species and human well-being. Invasive plants, animals, insects, and pathogens increasingly threaten public health, food security, recreation, infrastructure, and ecosystem stability across North America. This year's events emphasize coordinated action and practical prevention strategies that every individual, organization, and policymaker can take.

A Critical Moment for Invasive Species Awareness

"Invasive species impact every community. Whether through wildfire risk, agriculture losses, water shortages, vector-borne diseases, or damage to critical infrastructure," said Christie Trifone-Millhouse, Executive Director of NAISMA. "This year's theme underscores a powerful truth: Protecting our environment is directly tied to protecting our health. NISAW 2026 is a rallying point for collaboration and solutions."

NISAW 2026 will spotlight key issues such as:

• Public health impacts of invasives, including allergens, toxins, and disease vectors
• Aquatic invasive species threatening drinking water systems and fisheries
• Forest pests and pathogens are increasing wildfire risk and reducing carbon storage
• Agricultural and economic damages affecting food systems and rural communities
• Best practices for prevention, including recreation-based spread prevention, clean equipment protocols, and biosecurity principles

NISAW 2026 Events & Opportunities

Throughout the week, NAISMA will host free national webinars, policy discussions, and a congressional briefing designed to educate and activate stakeholders at every level. Participants can expect:

Virtual

• Daily educational webinars featuring leading scientists, land managers, and policymakers
• Toolkits, social media graphics, and community engagement resources for partners
• Calls to action encouraging individuals and organizations to stop the spread

In-Person

• Congressional briefing of four panelists highlighting legislative opportunities at the intersection of human health and invasive species management
• Staffer meetings coordinating advocacy efforts with key members of the Congressional Invasive Species Caucus

A full schedule of events will be available at https://naisma.org/programs/nisaw/.

Why NISAW Matters

Invasive species cost the U.S. more than $120 billion each year. Yet, many of the most effective solutions (early detection, rapid response, behavior-based prevention, and interagency coordination) receive limited attention outside the professional field. NISAW continues to fill this gap by connecting practitioners, policymakers, and the public around a unified message: We all have a role in preventing the spread.

How to Participate

NAISMA invites federal, state, Tribal, regional, and local partners as well as educators, outdoor recreation groups, businesses, and the public, to participate in NISAW 2026 by:

• Attending NISAW webinars
• Sharing educational messages across social media
• Hosting local events or trainings
• Highlighting community successes

About NAISMA

The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering invasive species professionals and partners across North America. Through standard-setting programs, education, policy advocacy, and collaborative networks, NAISMA strengthens invasive species management efforts at every scale to protect healthy lands, waters, and communities. Learn more at https://naisma.org.

Media Contact

Christie Trifone Millhouse, North American Invasive Species Management Assoc, 1 1 414-775-8220, director@naisma.org, North American Invasive Species Management Assoc

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SOURCE North American Invasive Species Management Assoc