Reporting an Invasive Weed Occurrence

There are currently two ways to report an invasive weed occurrence in Juneau:

1. Enter your observation into the EDDMapS Alaska database for verification and further action. AKEPIC/EDDMapS is a web-based mapping system for documenting invasive species distribution. It is fast, easy to use and doesn't require Geographic Information Systems experience. Launched in 2005 by the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health at the University of Georgia, it was originally designed as a tool for state Exotic Pest Plant Councils to develop more complete distribution data of invasive species.

After you add your information into the system, they will contact someone locally to affirm the report. You can also use the AKEPIC system to see distribution maps of invasive weeds in Alaska or get detailed information on specific species of concern. Report your information here: www.eddmaps.org/alaska/report/report.cfm For more information on how to enter data refer to the guide below.

2. Contact the JNU-CWMA Office at (907) 586-6878 or email info@juneauinvasives.org and we will follow-up with you to make sure the infestation is recorded and added to the appropriate databases. Control actions will depend on the infestation, location, and availablility of staff/volunteers.

Detailed EDDMaps Alaska Information

This function is for reporting sightings of NEW invaders to Alaska or your area that need immediate attention. Location information for common or widespread invasive weeds can be submitted via the AKEPIC data submittal process described at: http://akweeds.uaa.alaska.edu

To Report an Early Detection / Rapid Response Invasive Species Occurrence at EDDMaps Alaska:

1. Go to: www.eddmaps.org
2. Select the "Report Sightings" tab in the top left corner of the page.
3. If you are not already registered, register with a username and password. If you are already a registered user, simply sign in.
4. Select a State.
5. Click on Early Detection Reporting Form link (green text).
6. Follow the prompts to provide as much information about the sighting as possible by choosing from the dropdown menus. You may also upload several images along with your report.

EDDMapS combines data from other databases and organizations as well as volunteer observations to create a national network of invasive species distribution data that is shared with educators, land managers, conservation biologists, and beyond. This data will become the foundation for a better understanding of invasive species distribution around the world.

How does it work?

EDDMapS documents the presence of invasive species. A simple, interactive Web interface engages participants to submit their observations or view results through interactive queries into the EDDMapS database. EDDMapS encourages users to participate by providing Internet tools that maintain their personal records and enable them to visualize data with interactive maps.

Users simply enter information from their observations into the standardized on-line data form, which allows specific information about the infestation and images to be added. Data entered is immediately loaded to the Website, allowing real time tracking of species. Being able to see the current data of a species as it moves into a new area helps to facilitate Early Detection and Rapid Response programs (EDRR). EDRR programs help stop or control an invasive species before it becomes an unmanageable problem.

All data is reviewed by state verifiers to ensure all data is accurate. The data is made freely available to scientists, researchers, land managers, land owners, educators, conservationists, ecologists, farmers, foresters, state and national parks.