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Alberta's ecosystems are under threat.
Often mistaken for wildflowers, invasive plants are spreading through our ecosystems at an alarming rate.
Why are these plants such a threat?
The World Conservation Union has identified invasive alien species as the second most significant threat to biodiversity, after habitat loss. More than simply "plants out of place" as many weeds are referred to, these invaders are much more far-reaching in their impacts.
Invasive alien plants are species introduced deliberately or unintentionally outside of their natural habitats. In this new environment, free from their natural 'enemies', non-native plants have an advantage that allows them to out-compete native plants and agricultural crops for space, moisture and nutrients.
The first step in managing invasive plants is recognizing them.
Invasive plants affect us all.
As native plants are replaced by invasives, biodiversity declines and habitats change. These impacts are like a ripple on a pond - affecting wildlife, ecosystem functions, natural resources, recreation and industry.
The
costs of invasive plant management include prevention, control and
mitigation. The indirect costs are reflected in the loss of natural
resources and aesthetic values, right on through to the consumer level.
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AIPC Membership It's time to renew your membership or join us for the first time!!! Please note the new membership fees
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New seed catalogs will be arriving soon. Do you know which plants can be a problem?