Pacific Northwest Region

Present Condition

Monoculture of yellow starthistle near Medford, Oregon

Desired Future Condition

Diverse native plant community Lower John Day

THE PROBLEM

• Approximately 420,000 acres of National Forests and Grasslands in the Pacific Northwest Region are degraded by infestations of invasive, non-native plants.

• Invasive plants create a host of harmful environmental effects to native ecosystems including: displace native plants; degrade or eliminate habitat and forage for wildlife; threaten Endangered species; impact recreation; affect fire frequency; alter soil properties; decrease biodiversity; and more.

• Invasive plants spread across landscapes, unimpeded by ownership boundaries.  Infested areas represent potential seed sources for continuation of the invasion on neighboring lands. 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The purpose of our project is to enhance the ability of Forests in the Pacific Northwest Region to protect native ecosystems from invasive, non-native plants. This action will build on the Region’s existing program by developing Forest Plan standards that allow for more effective prevention and timely management of invasive plants. Given the seriousness of the current situation, National Forest managers need more operational flexibility with reduced process, greater cost-effectiveness and timely responsiveness, without increasing environmental risks. A new roadmap for prevention and site restoration, as well as a new and expanded toolbox, including; biological, fire, mechanical, manual, cultural, and chemical tools, are critical to successfully managing our invasive plant problem.

NEWS

Did you know?

Invasive Plants are spreading at about 4600 acres per year on western federal lands outside of Alaska.

Note:

All photos on this webpage are courtesy of Jerry Asher, BLM, Retired unless otherwise noted.