As our climate changes, many invasive plant species are expanding their growing range and creating daunting new threats. Researchers from the University of Massachusetts say it’s time to take well-informed, preventive steps to mitigate the impact.

In a research project featured in the journal Invasive Plant Science and Management, the team explored 87 plant species that are projected to shift into northern New England as the climate in the region changes. They found that 22 of the plants represent a threat to native species common in New England. Sixteen of those species were also known to have a negative impact on agriculture, human health or the economy. Almost all were found to be readily available for purchase by home gardeners – a factor which could accelerate their introduction.

Since none of these species have yet to become widespread, communities have a rare opportunity to take proactive steps at the earliest stage of the invasion curve. Among the strategies researchers recommend: Narrow your focus by identifying invaders most likely to cause problems in your area. Take steps to prohibit the sale of high-risk species and their seeds. Develop effective monitoring and control strategies and share them broadly.

Want to learn more? You can read the article “Identifying high-impact invasive plants likely to shift into northern New England with climate change”, which appears in Invasive Plant Science and Management. and is available free for a month.

Photo credit: Sherman Lake, Maine. Courtesy of Pixabay