Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Invasives: coming soon to a habitat near you

Its springtime - time for planting, gardening, weeding, rains, picnics, and insects. But unfortunately, it is also the time for (drumroll) the takeover of habitats by invasive plants!

Invasive plants: aka non-native species that flourish and out-compete natives in a region.
Potential problems: changing the pH of soil, blocking sunlight and resources to the understory of native plants, reducing biodiversity, and consequently reducing the amount of food sources and habitat for wildlife (including birds).

According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), there are 60 known invasive plant species in Pennsylvania, and no region is excluded. They are present in the form of trees, shrubs, vines, and aquatics, successfully taking over in fields, forests, and waterways. These species include (but are not limited to) Water Chestnut, Norway Maple, Multiflora Rose, Garlic Mustard, Dames Rocket, and Mile-a-Minute Weed. For full listings and removal techniques, check out the DCNR website at: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/invasivetutorial/List.htm

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