From nutria to lionfish, natural resource managers and culinary artists have speculated that harvest and use of invasive species could provide a means of managing or even eliminating nuisance populations. Through multiple reviews of the scientific and popular literature, we have concluded that, if used properly, incentivizing and encouraging public or commercial harvest could represent an opportunity to support management goals while simultaneously boosting economic development and environmental awareness. However, if used incorrectly, negative consequences such as generation of perverse incentives to further spread invaders can occur. In this talk, we will highlight principles we believe can help promote success and minimize risks of harvest-based invasive species management approaches. We’ll review the biological, ecological, human health, and socioeconomic factors involved in invasive species incentives. We also offer recommendations to assist in successful, delicious, and fashionable implementation of a successful harvest program.

*Note: The scientific results and conclusions, as well as any views or opinions expressed, are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.