Non-Native Invasive Plants

Invasive species threaten the sustainability of our forest ecosystems, regionally, nationally, and globally. Forests within the thirteen states of the Southern Region are rich in biological diversity and provide vital goods and services. The current infestations and growing threat of non-native invasive (NNI) species can displace diversity and habitats, disrupt vital ecosystem functions, and degrade productivity and recreational benefits. NNI plants have increased in their range and severity, while others await entry through global commerce.

Project Highlights

• In FY 2003 R8 received the first funding for cooperative work on NNI plants.

• Since that time 9 of 13 states in R8 have established NNI plant projects.

• Cooperators include State Forestry Agencies, State Departments of Agriculture, non profit organizations, land grant universities, and county governments.

• Several states (FL, GA, NC, AR, MS, and TX) have multiple projects.

• Most major invasive plants are involved in at least one project (Chinese privet, Chinese tallow tree, cogongrass, Ailanthus altissima, kudzu, autumn olive, old world climbing fern, Japanese climbing fern, Japanese silt grass, Chinese wisteria).

• In excess of 2,000 acres have been treated to control NNI plants.

• Over 850,000 acres have been surveyed for the presence of NNI plants.

• Native vegetation has been or will be restored on over 300 acres.

• Training in identification and control techniques have been provided to over 2000 land managers.

• Forest Health Protection projects have leveraged over $1,336,900 for use in NNI plant activities.

• FHP support has played a key role in establishing Exotic Pest Plant Councils in three states.

• Installation of demonstration projects in GA (3), NC (2), MS (2), AR, and TN have increased public awareness of the role of FHP in non native plant management.

Conclusions/Future direction

• The NNI plant management issue is one that truly concerns land managers in the Southern Region.

• FHP is recognized as a leader in evaluating technology and developing and supporting implementation of management strategies for NNI plants.

• The program is maturing in the Region and is ready for the next step; providing significant cost share opportunities for land managers.

FHP Contact:

John Taylor
Forest Service-USDA
1720 Peachtree Road, NW, Room815 N
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-347-2718
Email: jwtaylor@fs.fed.us

More Information

Noxious Weeds Home Page

Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide

Weed Management Guide

HungryPests - USDA Invasive Pests information

 

 

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USDA Forest Service - Forest Health Protection, Southern Region
Last Modified: Wednesday, 09 January 2013 at 13:52:05 EST