FONSI for Feral Exotic Invasive Species Management Plan at PAIS

The National Park Service (NPS) completed the environmental review of plans to reduce invasive feral swine at Padre Island National Seashore. Invasive swine were observed at the seashore in 2022. The NPS has taken efforts to remove swine from the seashore since then, but population numbers have still increased.

Feral swine disrupt the native coastal environment and can cause irreparable harm, as the ecosystem is not adapted to support these invasive animals. The finalized plan outlines strategies to remove feral swine, deter future incursions, and resolve related conditions that adversely impact resources through damaging behaviors of these species. Of particular concern is the habitat loss for threatened bird species such as the black rail. Sea turtle nests could be vulnerable should the feral swine move from the interior of the island to the beach. The plan also seeks to remove exotic invasive species including nilgai antelope.

The comprehensive management plan has a suite of management strategies to reduce these invasive species such as aerial gunning, night shooting, installation or barriers and baiting and trapping. The management tools and methods evaluated in the plan were developed based on depredation issues at several similar coastal areas in Texas, as well as those in the Southeast.

Removing invasive animals is necessary to protect the seashore's natural and cultural resources and increase visitor safety and enjoyment.

The Decision Document or Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is at the bottom of this webpage and all the environmental review documents are available at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/PadrePigHomePage

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