Non-native and invasive species are species, which spread from their natural habitat and are introduced to a new location by human activity, either deliberately or by accident. Non-native and invasive species invade natural barriers like a continent, ocean or mountain range.
Introduced species in Koillismaa include for instance the following: Canadian Pondweed (Elodea canadensis), Common Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) and Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum).
In Koillismaa, controlling invasive species (e.g. lupins, hogweeds, knotweeds and smartweeds) is important, because these practices may still slow down or even prevent the invasion of non-native species in the region.
The responsibility for controlling invasive and non-native species on land lies with the land-owner.
The Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment may grant funding for projects promoting the prevention, control and advice regarding invasive species as well as for projects monitoring the implementation of preventive measures.