Invasive plant species monitored by the Northern Research Station Forest Inventory and Analysis Program: Comparing the 2009, 2014, and 2019 inventories
| Authors: | Cassandra Kurtz |
| Year: | 2026 |
| Type: | General Technical Report |
| Station: | Northern Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.2737/NRS-GTR-239 |
| Source: | Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS–239. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. |
Abstract
Invasive plant species (IPS) are causing vast changes across the landscape. They have widespread impacts from aesthetics to agricultural and ecological damage, costing billions of dollars to mitigate. Despite their negative impacts, many are planted for erosion control and site reclamation due to their quick colonization and ability to withstand harsh environments. Additionally, these species are utilized for herbal, medicinal, and aesthetic qualities. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Inventory Analysis
(FIA) program collects invasive plant data on both public and private forest ownerships. This report focuses on the 44 IPS species monitored in the 24 Midwestern and Northeastern states that comprise the region monitored by the Northern Research Station (NRS).