What is an Invasive Plant Species?
From the U.S. Forest Service on Invasive Plants, an “invasive species” is defined as a species that is
- Non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration; and,
- Whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. (Executive Order 13112).
General Information
National Invasive Species Information Center (NISIC) – on terrestrial (land-dwelling) invasive plants
Midwest Invasive Plant Network – Covers the states of IL, IN, IA, KY, MI, MN, MO, OH, WI and Ontario, Canada. Highlights:
- Why Should I Care About Invasive Plants?
- Emerging Invasive Plants in the Midwest
- Garlic Mustard in the Midwest: an Overview for Managers
- Landscape Alternatives, 2023 flyer
- Terrestrial Invasive Plants, 2023 flyer
- Aquatic Invasive Plants, 2023 flyer
Ohio Department of Natural Resources – List of invasive plants in Ohio
Ohio Invasive Plants Council – A coalition of agencies, organizations, and individuals throughout Ohio concerned about the introduction, spread, and control of invasive, non-native plants in Ohio’s natural habitats.
Ohio Laws and Administrative Rules:
Controlling Non-Native Invasive Plants in Ohio Forests
From Ohioline – Ohio State University Extension
- Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
- Amur, Morrow, and Tartarian honeysuckle (Lonicera ssp.)
- Privet (Ligustrum ssp.)
- Autumn Olive & Russian Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata & E. angustifolia)
- Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
- Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum)
Volunteer Opportunities
The following organizations schedule invasive removal throughout the year:
Central Ohio:
- Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks (Resource Management Volunteer)
- Licking Park District (Conservation Stewardship Volunteer)
- Delaware Preservation Parks (Land Steward Volunteer)
- FACT – Friends of Alum Creek & Tributaries
- FLOW – Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed
Statewide:
- Ohio Natural Areas & Preserves Association (Stewardship Projects/Invasive Control)
- The Nature Conservancy (Invasive Species Control, search Ohio)
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources – Natural Areas & Preserves (Work Trips to Preserves)
- Arc of Appalachia (Invasive Workdays, see calendar)