Invasive Plants

Our work is inspired by our dedication and commitment to conservation of species and landscapes. Our mission is to serve as a resource for those interested in understanding (1) whether and how introduced plants have ecological impacts; (2) how introduced plants interact with native species (not just plants); and (3) how we can safely utilize biological control using highly specialized herbivores to manage plant invasions.  The vast majority of introduced plants do not become ecological bullies, but novel neighbors that over time are integrated into local food webs.  What is most disconcerting and requires action are those species that “break the rules” and tend to become so competitive that they dominate resource flows or habitats threatening native species well-being.  But how to best manage plant invasions to increase ecological well-being is contentious, and complex.  This is where we work. We are not restricted to ecological sciences, but also try to understand how human attitudes and beliefs inform conservation and management.

Trillium grandiflorum at Filmore Glen State Park