Human activity and landscaping trends have dramatically altered New Jersey’s natural ecosystems. Invasive plants, animals, insects, and diseases often spread across disturbed land, displacing or killing native species. This class will introduce the history of how invasive species were brought to our region and the cultural practices that have allowed them to persist. Participants will learn how to identify common invasive plants and animals, explore strategies to restore damaged ecosystems and protect those that are still intact, and review management approaches and policies that shape these efforts at both the state and national levels.