What is an invasive species?  A plant, animal, or other organism that is introduced into a system in which it is not native, and one that has the potential to cause negative impacts to the native species in the system.  (Not all non-native species are invasive; the distinction is that invasive species tend to cause harm).

What should I be looking for?  Below are some common invasive plant species potentially found in the region.  If encountered, please make a report with photos and as much description (including the specific location) as possible!

• Oriental bittersweet

 (Credit: Plant Conservation Alliance, www.nps.gov)

• Glossy buckthorn

 (Credit: USDA, plants.usda.gov)

• Multiflora rose
  

 (Credit: Plant Conservation Alliance, www.nps.gov)

• Purple loosestrife

 (Credit: Plant Conservation Alliance, www.nps.gov)

• Common reed: There is a native species that looks very similar to the introduced species.  The introduced species has leave stat look more blue-green, and it tends to grow in monocultures.

 (Credit: Plant Conservation Alliance, www.nps.gov)

• Morrow's honeysuckle

 (Credit: USDA, plants.usda.gov)

• Burning bush

 (Credit: USDA, plants.usda.gov)