In the Pacific Northwest, invasive plants negatively impact native plants, wildlife and whole ecosystems. These invasives displace native plants, degrade habitat and recreation opportunities, as well as physically and chemically alter soil properties and fire frequencies. Additionally, invasive plants can jeopardize endangered plants, some of which are at risk due to invasive species, and further decrease biodiversity. Monetarily, in the United States, these damages and losses can cost up to $138 billion per year! Nearly 420,000 acres of National Forests and Grasslands in the PNW have been degraded by invasive plants. (more)
