Spartans of UD - Christie Trifone Millhouse (C'04)

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the University of Dubuque special - the people.

Christie Trifone Millhouse (C'04) is the executive director of the North American Invasive Species Management Association. With over 25 years of experience in the conservation sector, Christie oversees the development and implementation of innovative policies and programs that address invasive species management across North America.

As an undergraduate student, Christie was an environmental science major and member of Alpha Chi.

Can you share a little about the North American Invasive Species Management Association?

"The North American Invasive Species Management Association's (NAISMA) mission is to empower invasive species management in North America. We are the collective voice for the invasive species management community. NAISMA provides the tools and connections needed to address invasive species threats to human health, infrastructure, food and water, economic success including tourism and recreation, and cultural and natural resource degradation. Invasive species have a substantial economic impact globally. In 2024, over $423 billion dollars were spent worldwide on invasive species, with $120 billion of that spent in the US alone. NAISMA has built a community of leaders who depend on the professional development and educational support, community outreach campaigns, management tools, and policy and advocacy efforts at the national and international scale that NAISMA offers."

What are some highlights so far from your time as executive director of the North American Invasive Species Management Association?

"As an executive director, it has been my pleasure to usher in a new elevated NAISMA over the last few years. I have worked with our leadership to reshape this organization and have laser focused on providing programming that matters. Some of the highlights from the past few years include a refinement of our mission, brand, membership, programming, and internal structure. Additionally, a primary focus of my work has been on external growth in our international relations. This includes expanding our international partnerships to include Mexico, Canada, Island communities, and tribes across North America."

Why is the invasive species management important?

In response to this question, Christie explained the various impacts of invasive species:

Controlling invasive species is crucial to protect native landscapes, ecosystem biodiversity, and human health, well-being, and culture. Think invasive species don't impact you... think again. Here are just a few reasons why NAISMA's mission to empower invasive species management is so important:

Invasive Species Ecological Impacts Includes:

• Displacement of Native Species: Invasive species often outcompete native plants and animals for resources like food, water, and habitat, leading to declines and extinctions in native populations and biodiversity.
• Habitat Degradation: Invasive plants can form dense monocultures, altering soil composition, water flow, and other ecosystem functions, impacting the health and resilience of natural areas.
• Increased Wildfire Risk: Some invasive plants, like cheatgrass, create highly flammable fuel loads, increasing the risk and severity of wildfires, which can further damage ecosystems and habitats.
• Ecosystem Services: Invasive species can negatively impact ecosystem services like water filtration, soil stabilization, and pollination, which are essential for human and ecological well-being.

Invasive Species Economic Impacts Includes:

• Damage to Agriculture and Forestry: Invasive pests and diseases can decimate crops, livestock, and forests, leading to significant economic losses for farmers and forest industries.
• Infrastructure Damage: Invasive species, like zebra mussels, can clog pipes and disrupt water treatment and power generation facilities, causing costly repairs and disruptions.
• Tourism and Recreation Impacts: Invasive species can negatively impact recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking by altering habitats, reducing biodiversity, and posing risks to human health.
• Property Value Reduction: Invasive species can decrease property values, especially in areas with high concentrations of invasive plants or animals.

Invasive Species Human Health Impacts Includes:

• Disease Transmission: Some invasive species, like mosquitoes, can transmit diseases to humans, posing a significant public health risk.
• Allergies and Irritations: Certain invasive plants can cause allergic reactions or skin irritations, impacting human health and well-being.
• Direct Harm: Some invasive species, like giant hogweed, can cause burns or other injuries through contact.
• Reduced Outdoor Opportunities: Invasive species can limit access to natural areas and outdoor activities, which are important for mental health and well-being.
• Drinking Water: Invasive species can negatively impact drinking water by clogging pipes, disrupting ecosystems, and potentially increasing the risk of disease, ultimately affecting water quality and availability.

Invasive Species Human Cultural Impacts Includes:

• Loss of Traditional Resources: Invasive species can displace or damage native plants and animals that are culturally important for food, medicine, or ceremonies.
• Erosion of Cultural Identity: The loss of native species and their associated knowledge can lead to the erosion of cultural identity and traditions.
• Disruption of Traditional Ecosystems: Invasive species can alter the structure and function of ecosystems, which can impact traditional land management practices and resource use.
• Threat to Cultural Landscapes: Invasive species can degrade culturally significant landscapes, such as traditional grazing lands or areas with historical significance.
• Impact on Indigenous Peoples: Invasive species can disproportionately impact indigenous communities, who often have a strong connection to their natural environment and depend on it for their livelihoods and cultural practices.

Earth Day is coming up on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. What does Earth Day mean to you?

"Earth Day has always been my yearly reminder to renew my commitment to taking care of our precious natural resources. It is our responsibility to steward the earth so she can provide for not only our species but all the other species that depend on her. Earth Day is a call to action that should be shared with others and celebrated by communities! This Earth Day, I will be preparing my yard for tree and prairie plantings by removing invasive buckthorn, honeysuckle, and garlic mustard. The trees and plants that will replace these species will provide critical ecosystem services that are desperately needed here in the Driftless Area."

What is your favorite memory from your time as a student?

"I don't necessarily have a specific event that I'd like to highlight but rather specific people. I am thankful for this opportunity to finally thank Melissa in admission, who didn't stop until I was fully enrolled and secured financial aid. I would not be here without her. She gave me the confidence to invest in myself at a time when I was unsure about everything in life. To Dr. Zeurcher, Dr. Neiman, and Dr. Smith, thank you for shepherding me through courses that challenged and inspired me. They believed in me and my potential. I remember walking through the lineup of professors after graduation, feeling that a handshake and hug were not enough to express my profound gratitude for their support."

In your opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque unique?

"What makes UD unique is the built-in network of advocates that lift you up from the moment you talk to admission to the day you hold that diploma in your hand... and beyond. UD is an institution that is committed to elevating your potential and opening doors."