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<br />RISK AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT <br />Ramsey County Multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan | July 2012 4-65 <br />Hazard Summary <br />There are no civil disturbances on record in St. Paul or Ramsey County that have affected the population. <br />With several sporting arenas and the many socio-political demonstrations that may occur, the potential for <br />a civil disturbance is high. <br />4.4.9 Invasive Species <br />Hazard Identification <br />Invasive species are plants and animals that are not native to our region and are very aggressive growers <br />that can take over and change habitat. The control of invasive species is difficult and expensive. <br />Hazard Profile <br />Within Ramsey County, the main invasive species are European Buckthorn, Glossy Buckthorn, Garlic <br />Mustard, Reed Canarygrass, purple loosestrife, leafy spurge, spotted knapweed, smooth brome, and <br />earthworms. There are also many species that are found in adjacent states but currently are not in <br />Minnesota. Zebra mussels, Eurasian water milfoil, ruffe, and other invasive species pose a severe threat to <br />Minnesota waters and native aquatic plants and animals. These nonnative invaders also pose a threat to <br />water-based recreation, including fishing. Currently, these invasive species are living in relatively few <br />Minnesota lakes and rivers. <br />The control techniques of these species varies from mechanical and chemical to biological. Ramsey <br />County works with various state agencies to develop better techniques. The Department of Natural <br />Resources (DNR) tracks and develops programs to minimize the impacts and spread of invasive species. <br />The inclusion of invasive species in the HMP was recommended by residents of Ramsey County during <br />public meetings. <br />Assets Exposed to Hazard <br />Impacts of invasive species within Ramsey County are mainly localized to parks and wooded areas as <br />well as lakes, rivers, streams, and other bodies of water. <br />Damage Assessment <br />There are no recorded instances of damage to facilities as a result of invasive species. <br />Land Use and Development Trends <br />There are no land use and development trends related to invasive species. <br />Vulnerability <br />Invasive Species <br />Frequency of Occurrence Occasionally <br />Warning Time More than 12 hours <br />Geographic Extent Localized <br />Potential Impact Negligible to Moderate