Invasive Species Management
Overview
An invasive species is defined as being non-native (or introduced) to the ecosystem in which it is found and capable of causing environmental, economic, or human harm. Invasive species often compete so successfully in new ecosystems that they displace native species and disrupt important, natural ecosystem processes. Particularly in Pennsylvania, we’ve seen the rampant spread of species such as Japanese Knotweed, which adds to the challenges we face. WHM can provide services to control these invasive plant species through the continuous use of Best Management Practices (BMPs). These management strategies include the use of herbicides like glyphosate, which can be particularly effective against certain invasive species, but it’s just one tool in our toolbox. Throughout the state, some of the most common invasive species we have dealt with are:
- Reed Canary grass
- Multi-flora Rose
- Purple Loosestrife
- Autumn Olive
- Mile-a-Minute
- Japanese Stilt grass
- Japanese Barberry
- Japanese Knotweed
In regards to BMPs, there may be situations where using herbicides is not the best or only method to solve an invasive issue. Sometimes, against plants like Japanese Barberry or Multi-flora Rose, it may be necessary to use manual or biological control, either in conjunction with or in place of chemicals, as the most effective treatment method.
BMPs enact methods, practices, and/or techniques found to be the most effective and functional in achieving an objective (such as controlling invasive species like Reed Canary grass or Purple loosestrife while minimizing damage to non-targeted species) while making optimum use of overall resources.
What We Do
We are fully licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to use both unrestricted and restricted herbicides. Our company will assess a site, determine BMPs for control, then put a plan into action. With almost all invasive species situations, sites will require multiple treatments over time, emphasizing the importance of thorough management and repeated treatment. Safety is also a major concern for the company. Our license requires us to be fully insured, and to follow government standards on personal safety.