Invasive plants in the forest replace locally evolved species and decrease tree regeneration. In general, invasive species are defined as species that did not evolve in the ecosystem where you found them, and cause harm (economic, environmental, human health). To learn more about invasive plants and their impacts to forests, check out these resources found at VTinvasives.org.
Vermont's Noxious Weed Rule, which is overseen by the Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets, regulates certain introduced invasive plants. There is also an Invasive Plant Watchlist, last updated in 2017.
VT Dept. Forests, Parks & Recreation's Forest Protection Section run our own volunteer and research projects, as well as support other local and regional projects focused on invasive plants in forests. Check out the Ways to Get Involved - Volunteer Opportunities page on VTinvasives.org to see what's currently taking place, and how you can get involved. Or check out our NEW! Bud Buds Podcast that explores the seasonal changes of invasive plants in Vermont.
Not sure who to contact with your question? Check below, and hopefully we can connect you to the right place.
Pest plant or garden plant: If your question is regarding a garden, landscape, or agricultural pest plant, or other non-invasive plants (like poison ivy, sumac, and goldenrod), please contact the Master Gardener hotline.
Aquatic invasive species: If your question is regarding aquatic invasive species, please contact the Agency of Natural Resources' Dept. Environmental Conservation's Aquatic Invasive Species program.
Trees or forest insects/diseases: If your question is regarding trees, forest pests or forest health, please contact the Forest Biology Lab or Protection Foresters.
Disposal, permits, BMPs, or regulation: If your question is regarding disposal, permitting, best management practices, legality or complaints of Noxious Weed Rule violations, please contact the Agency of Agriculture’s Plant Industry Section.
Reporting an invasive plant: Early detection invasive plant observations can be submitted for further review using the VTinvasives.org “Report It” tool.
General questions: If your question is about common topic areas like specific management recommendations by species, identification, outreach, volunteering, best management practices, educational resources, or related areas, there is likely information already provided at VTinvasives.org. If you are unable to find the information you need at VTinvasives.org, please reach out to the FPR Forest Protection Section's Invasive Plant Program.