Invasive Species
The spread of invasive species is now the second greatest threat, behind habitat destruction, to endangered plants and animals. Because they can out-compete native plants for water, nutrients and sunlight, increasing populations of non-native plants could have long-term effects on the biological integrity of the Sanctuary. For many years, volunteers have worked to control species such as Spotted Knapweed and European Helleborine Orchid by pulling individual plants. Recent research projects have focused on Phragmites (a tall, tough-stemmed grass) and its control using various herbicides.
The best way to control the spread of these invaders is to locate and control them early, before they can get a "roothold" in an area. Visitors to the Ridges are encouraged to watch for non-native plants, especially Garlic Mustard, Black Swallow-wort, Japanese Barberry, Common Teasel, Japanese Knotweed, and Glossy and Common Buckthorn. If you believe you have seen any of these plants during a visit to the Sanctuary, please contact the Ridges staff as soon as possible. Include a description of when and where the plants were found, and describe characteristics of the plant (leaf shape, flowers, fruit or seed pods, etc.) that will help in making a positive identification. Photos documenting the plants are also very helpful.
The best way to control the spread of these invaders is to locate and control them early, before they can get a "roothold" in an area. Visitors to the Ridges are encouraged to watch for non-native plants, especially Garlic Mustard, Black Swallow-wort, Japanese Barberry, Common Teasel, Japanese Knotweed, and Glossy and Common Buckthorn. If you believe you have seen any of these plants during a visit to the Sanctuary, please contact the Ridges staff as soon as possible. Include a description of when and where the plants were found, and describe characteristics of the plant (leaf shape, flowers, fruit or seed pods, etc.) that will help in making a positive identification. Photos documenting the plants are also very helpful.
Fact Sheets