In my first three years as an extension specialist at the Louisiana State University AgCenter, I responded to the detections of six invasive species. I have learned by experience the process of appropriately responding to the report of an invasive species. This manuscript identifies the eight key steps I follow to streamline the response of my extension program and avoid communication failures with the media, fellow university faculty, and regulatory agencies. I also describe a number of groups affected by species introductions, where Land Grant University extension faculty can assist in the response, and the final result of these team efforts.