DNR Says Invasive Jumping Worms Are a Threat to Minnesota

Jumping Worms? They sound like a fun game that kids want to play. However, Jumping Worms aren't anything to laugh about.

JUMPING WORMS ARE A THREAT TO MINNESOTA

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says that Jumping worms,
which get their name because of the way they squirm when disturbed, are invasive to the area, and are a threat to gardens and forests because they eat the roots of plants.

Jumping worms are native to Asia and are being spread through North America by moving potted plants, soil, compost, mulch and fishing bait. The DNR says the worms are mainly found in the Twin Cities and Rochester areas.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT JUMPING WORMS

• Prevention is the only way to manage them.
• They live in leaf litter and on the top two inches of the soil.
• They change soil texture to appear to be that of coffee grounds, and strip soil nutrients that kill plants.
• Jumping worms should be disposed of in the garbage, not released into the wild.
• Jumping worms should be reported to the DNR.  Learn how to report them by clicking HERE now.

They are also bad for fishing bait because they break apart easily.

Anyone who comes across them are urged to contact the DNR.