Invasive Species

According to the Nature Conservancy (www.nature.org), invasive exotic species are the second greats threat to global biodiversity after habitat destruction. An 'invasive plant' is a plant which grows quickly and aggressively, displacing other plants as it spreads. An 'invasive exotic plant' is a plant that is not native to North America and because its aggressive nature, quickly displaces native plan species. Invasive exotic species harm wildlife by eliminating the plants our native animals need for food and cover. They also pose a serious threat to native rare wildlife and plants by destroying their habitat. It should be noted that invasive exotic species can include ALL species (birds, mammals, plants insects, etc.), but the Field Station and Environmental Education Center focuses on invasive exotic plants. Such plants are a serious problem for the above mentioned reasons and the FSEEC actively manages such plant species on all FSEEC properties

Depending on the species, time of year, extent of the infestation and other factors, management can include cutting, pulling, burning, herbiciding or a combination of these treatments.

Invasive exotic plants occur on all FSEEC properties


Invasive Plants Occurring at Cooper Farm/Skinner Field Area

Alliaria petiolata	Garlic Mustard
Dipsacus fullonum	Common Teasel
Eleagnus umbellatus	Autumn Olive
Lonicera spp.	Bush Honeysuckle
Morus alba	White Mulberry
Rosa multiflora	Multiflora Rose

For more information on vegetation management on our properties, contact John Taylor.