Lake Hosts in New Hampshire are recognized for their vigilance at boat ramps, where they inspect vessels for invasive species. Behind every blue shirt stands a commitment to engage boaters in conversations that help protect the state’s precious waters.

Land Between the Lakes (LBL) is known for its tasty pulled pork dishes—but in 2026, the region witnessed a surge in efforts to eradicate wild hogs. While locals enjoy pork as a regional delicacy, the presence of feral pigs has alarmed residents and sparked a growing environmental concern.

Garlic mustard is cropping up across West Bloomfield, threatening local habitats. By pulling this invasive weed before it spreads, residents and conservationists hope to protect both native plants and wildlife.

Ellsworth officials are weighing a $100,000 initiative to curb the spread of the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect confirmed on Mount Desert Island last year. It underscores the growing local response to one of Maine’s most significant environmental threats.

Tilton Pond has become the latest battleground in Maine’s struggle with invasive species. State officials report widespread swollen bladderwort, shifting their efforts toward preventing it from migrating to nearby waters.

Conneaut’s Port Authority has been awarded nearly $11,000 to continue efforts against invasive phragmites in the local harbor. This vital funding supports an ongoing campaign to protect the city’s waterfront from environmental threats.

St. Peter has secured $300,000 in state funding to remove ash trees ravaged by the emerald ash borer and invest in replacements on public property. As the invasive pest steadily damages trees across the region, officials are determined to keep the city’s green spaces thriving for future generations.

In response to a rapidly spreading invasive plant affecting Lake Austin, the city plans to unleash sterile grass carp to restore balance. Hydrilla currently covers 30% of the lake, and officials believe this fish-based method could halt further spread while safeguarding the ecosystem.

A vigilant Lake Host, Deb Williams, intercepted a zebra mussel and plant fragments on a boat about to enter Lake Winnisquam, thwarting a potentially devastating invasion. Her discovery on August 15 underscores the importance of continued community efforts to keep invasive species at bay.

Florida’s fight against invasive Burmese pythons just took a high-tech turn. Robotic rabbits, costing $500,000 in total, now roam the Everglades, mimicking real prey to draw the snakes out of hiding.