Invasive Species

Explore why invasive plants are a concern in the St. Louis region and learn what you can do to help address them. 
  

Invasive Plants 101
Why Should You Care?

Recreation

Invasives plants can prevent the enjoyment of our woodlands and stream banks for hiking, cycling, horseback riding, birding, hunting and other outdoor recreation. Thorny multiflora rose, dense stands of honeysuckle, Bradford pear, burning bush and other invaders can form impenetrable thickets in the understory of once open native forests and grasslands. For anglers and boaters, dense mats of aquatic invasives like Eurasian water milfoil can snag fishing lines and clog boat motors.
What Can You Do To Help?

Learn to identify invasive plant species in our region (see Species List below) and how to distinguish them from any native species that are similar in appearance.

Avoid using invasive plants in your garden. Until you are able to get rid of invasive plants in your yard, be responsible and remember to remove and destroy seeds of invasive plants to prevent their dispersal into natural areas. Don’t share invasives with other gardeners.  Ask your local nursery not to sell invasive plants and to provide native alternatives.

Don’t plant invasive plants for wildlife. Native species provide much better food and cover for native wildlife.

Volunteer to help remove invasive species in local parks and natural areas.

Pass it on! Tell your friends and family about the threat from invasive species.


Invasive Species in the St. Louis Region