Why are invasive plants a problem?

Invasive plants have the potential to out compete and displace native species, reduce soil quality, and change the workings of ecosystems, along with other negative effects. Many of these weeds also impact wildlife by reducing the quality and quantity of forage. Some noxious weeds contain chemicals that are toxic to wildlife. Economic losses often stem from reduction in quality forage, reduction in soil productivity and reduction in property values. Other states have felt serious repercussions from the invasion of noxious plants. Damage by leafy spurge in Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota and South Dakota showed an annual loss of $129 million in the regional economy and to the net income of ranchers. These losses have likely resulted in higher consumer costs for agricultural products. Currently, Utahs noxious weed problems are not equal in magnitude to those of many other states. However, dire situations in neighboring states reinforce the importance of control and eradication of known ...  more

Invasive plant species are a problem on National Forest for a wide variety of reasons including the following: Invasive plants out-compete and eliminate native plants. As invasive populations rise, native species populations fall. This results in a reduction in species diversity, changes in community structure and loss of ecosystem function. Invasive plants can displace the native plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife. Their presence also reduces the quantity and quality of forage available for both big game and domestic livestock. Some invasive plants are poisonous or can cause injury to wildlife and livestock. Invasive plants increase soil erosion. Research has shown that invasive species can reduce organic litter found in native bunch grass ecosystems and cause increased topsoil loss during rainfall. Invasive plants diminish or eliminate recreation opportunities. Many invasive plant species have thorns or spikes that are painful to recreationists. The presence of these ...  more

Invasive plant species are a problem on National Forest for a wide variety of reasons including the following: • Invasive plants out-compete and eliminate native plants.As invasive populations rise, native species populations fall. This results in a reduction in species diversity, changes in community structure and loss of ecosystem function. • Invasive plants can displace the native plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife.Their presence also reduces the quantity and quality of forage available for both big game and domestic livestock.Some invasive plants are poisonous or can cause injury to wildlife and livestock. • Invasive plants increase soil erosion.Research has shown that invasive species can reduce organic litter found in native bunch grass ecosystems and cause increased topsoil loss during rainfall. • Invasive plants diminish or eliminate recreation opportunities.Many invasive plant species have thorns or spikes that are painful to recreationists.The presence of ...  more