Invasive Species Common Names: Working Towards More Inclusive Invasive Species Education and Outreach

Authors

Megan M. Weber, University of Minnesota Extension & Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center, University of MinnesotaFollow
Angela Gupta, University of Minnesota Extension
Nicholas B.D. Phelps, Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center, University of Minnesota & Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota
Douglas A. Jensen, University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program (previous) & Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (current)
Robert C. Venette, Northern Research Station, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service & Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pest Center, University of Minnesota

Volume

62

Issue

3

Abstract

Invasive species harm natural and managed ecosystems. Awareness and management of these species depends on effective education and outreach. Traditional common names, including those with geographic references, for many invasive pests may perpetuate slanderous terms or stigmatize people from that place. To create more inclusive invasive species educational materials, the University of Minnesota Extension’s Invasive Species Community of Practice developed guidelines for selection of common names. Suggested names were shared with others involved in invasive species communications, leading to broader adoption. These guidelines may be useful to others who struggle to find descriptive, non-alienating common names for invasive species.

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Recommended Citation

Weber, M. M., Gupta, A., Phelps, N. B., Jensen, D. A., & Venette, R. C. (2024). Invasive Species Common Names: Working Towards More Inclusive Invasive Species Education and Outreach. The Journal of Extension, 62(3), Article 11. https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol62/iss3/11