BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Whatcom County has proclaimed this week Invasive Species Awareness Week.

The announcement was made in conjunction with Washington state to help raise awareness of the impacts that invasive insects, plants or animals can have on the environment.

Invasive species are considered the second greatest threat to biodiversity after human development and cost the nation about $137 billion annually.

Last year, Governor Inslee issued an emergency order for the green crab infestation in the Lummi Nation’s Sea Pond and outer coast areas.