Storms and Species: How Hurricanes Aid in Invader Expansion

On this episode of the American Shoreline Podcast, hosts Peter Ravella and Tyler Buckingham engage in an insightful conversation with Ian Pfingsten, a botanist and invasive species expert from the U.S. Geological Survey. Pfingsten explains the mechanisms used by the USGS to predict and track the spread of non-native species through Flood and Storm Tracker maps. The discussion further illuminates the impact on ecosystems, potential economic and human health implications, and the mitigation strategies employed to curb the threats posed by these invasive species. This episode not only sheds light on the USGS's critical research and innovative methods, but also underscores the urgent need for preparedness and resilience in the face of increasingly frequent and devastating weather events.