According to the Nature Conservancy, most invasive plant species normally cause moderate to severe damage to the lands and waters that native plants and animals need to survive. The non-native plant species hurt local economies and can often prove to be threats to human well-beings as well. Estimated damage from invasive species worldwide totals more than $1.4 trillion.
- Visit the Nature Conservancy's website
According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, an "invasive species" is defined as any species (including its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biological material capable of propagation) that is not native to a given ecosystem; and whose presence causes economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Since invasive species are in a new environment, free from the natural predators, parasites, or competitors of their native habitats, they often develop very high populations. These large populations can out-compete and displace native Photo by Jil Swearingen, USDI NPS species, or can reduce wildlife food and habitat. Some invasive species can reduce forest productivity by reducing tree growth rates, restricting tree seedling establishment, increasing fire hazard, and increasing site preparation costs.
- View comprehensive PDF documents from the Georgia Forestry Commission
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