Virginia Invasive Species
Tools for Mapping Invasive Species
You can choose from an online mapping tool or a smartphone app to collect and report invasive species information.
Often, the first step in making a report is to take clear photos to allow specialists to identify your specimen. Here is our guide for taking useful photos of plants. The same principles apply to photos of animals and other organisms. Three quick tips: 1) Focus, focus, focus! 2) Get the whole organism, and 3) Get close (but be safe).
On the web:
Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS)
An easy to use web form that makes your data contribution part of a national network. Free registration required. Learn more here >>
On your phone:
EDDMapS mobile app
Available on both App Store and Google Play, the app is a field guide combined with a reporting form. You can add GPS info and photos to your report right from the site where you find an invasive species. Learn more here >>
iNaturalist
Report your discoveries via the web or a mobile app. The iNaturalist platform is a fun and useful tool for amatuer and professional naturalists. In addition to learning about invasive species, users can discover much about common and rare species in their area--and around the world. Free registration required.
Website:
Mobile app: