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Submodule 9: Social Impacts
Social Impacts of Invasive Species
Soybeans -- a non-native food
source (photo courtesy
USDA-ARS)
Along with the ecological and economic effects of invasive species come many impacts on society. Invasive species can influence our health and safety, how we perceive and appreciate the environment, and how we spend our time. Especially significant are their effects on quality of life issues, even life and death issues. The threat from exotic diseases is increasing with growth in transportation and trade around the world, and encroachment into new ecosystems where many of these diseases originate. All of this brings the social impacts of invasive species into the political arena. It is, therefore, important that political leaders and the public in general understand of these potential impacts so that they will support land managers in making effective management decisions.
At the same time, it is important to consider the positive social impacts from non-indigenous species, meaning non-native species that do not become invasive. Much of the food produced and eaten in this country is from non-natives; plants including corn, wheat, and soybeans; animals and animal products including beef, cow’s milk, and eggs. Although dogs and cats, both feral and domestic, inflict many human bites each year and kill wildlife and livestock, they also provide companionship as pets.
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