Gino Graziano
Invasive Plant Program Coordinator
Alaska Association of
Conservation Districts
Wasilla
Telephone: 907-354-1227
E-Mail: ginograziano@alaskaswcds.org
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Bird
vetch crawls over fence in Anchorage. |
Welcome to the
CNIPM invasive plants Web site. This site was developed by the Committee
for Noxious and Invasive Plants Management in Alaska (CNIPM). Its’
goal is to heighten the awareness of the problems associated with non-native
invasive plants and to bring about greater statewide coordination, cooperation
and action to halt the introduction and spread of undesirable plants. Alaska
is in a unique position to prevent a severe problem with invasive plants.
Prevention is much cheaper than control. Identifying outbreaks early and
responding to them quickly can reduce management costs. This takes coordinated
efforts among many groups.
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thistle and yellow toadflax spread by creeping roots. |
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Invasive plants
have many characteristics that allow them to compete with, and often dominate,
native vegetation. They grow rapidly, mature early and effectively spread
seeds that can survive a long time in the soil. Their profuse vegetative
reproduction produces dense shade, which along with toxins suppresses the
growth of their competitors. Invasive plants often lack predators, and can
hybridize or cross-pollinate with local plants, compromising the genetic
makeup of native species. They easily create monocultures in the under story,
preventing the establishment and growth of seedling trees. Some invasive
plants even change ecosystems by utilizing large amounts of water and nutrients,
altering soil and water resources and increasing fire frequency. Through
these and other ways, invasive plants reduce the value of pasture and rangeland
for livestock production.
Impacts are not limited to terrestrial systems. Wetlands and waterways are
particularly sensitive areas. Aquatic invasive plants can alter water pH,
turbidity and light availability; thus, damaging fish habitat and impeding
fish migration. Aquatic invasive plants can choke waterways, restricting
recreational and transportation corridors.
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