Many plant pests and pathogens are not yet known to be present in the U.S. and could threaten our plant resources upon introduction. Global trade provides the most common pathways through which outbreaks may occur. You can take action against outbreaks or slow the expansion of emerging threats and other invasive species by:

1. Preventing spread—​Don't move firewood! Invasive insects and diseases can hitchhike in and on firewood, potentially transporting them to new places. Instead, purchase firewood where you will burn it, buy certified heat-treated firewood, or gather firewood on site where permitted. Learn more from our partners at Don't Move Firewood.
2. Learning to report—You can easily and rapidly report the presence of pests and pathogens online. Learn more about identifying and reporting signs and symptoms of an invasive species outbreak by taking free online First Detector courses.
3. Knowing the threats—Learn more about some of these potential threats from our partners at the Sentinel Plant Network.

Photo credit - Tremex wood wasp © Stanislav Krejcik, meloidae; oak processionary moth © Bartlett Tree Experts, UK; beech bleeding canker © Forest Research, United Kingdom Forestry Commission, Bugwood.org; oak splendour beetle © Milan Zubrik, Forest Research Institute - Slovakia, Bugwood.org