INVASIVE VEGETATION

How the Upper Willamette SWCD is addressing environmental threats posed by invasive species in Lane County. Discover how our efforts contribute to managing invasive species and preserving the ecological balance of our waterways.

Issues Caused by Invasive Species

Ecological Disruption

Invasive species often outcompete native flora and fauna for resources such as food, water, and space. This disrupts the natural balance of ecosystems and can lead to declines in native species populations.

Biodiversity Loss

The introduction of invasive species can result in the decline or extinction of native species, leading to a reduction in biodiversity. This loss of diversity can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, impacting its resilience and functionality.

Economic Impact

Invasive species can cause significant economic damage by affecting agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. They may damage crops, harm livestock, and interfere with the productivity of natural resources, leading to financial losses for industries and communities.

Human Health Risks

Some invasive species can pose risks to human health. For example, certain invasive plants or animals may introduce new diseases or allergens, affecting human well-being.

Addressing these problems requires proactive management strategies to control and mitigate the impacts of invasive species on both natural ecosystems and human activities.

Vision for Additional Funding

Hire a forestry technician to work with foresters and small woodlot owners in conservation planning. This technician would work closely with the NRCS and to determine best management practices for their forests & woodlots, understand current problems and provide potential solutions related to nutrient management, pest control & pesticide runoff, soil & sediment runoff, riparian plantings & buffer zones, among other sustainable forestry & agroforestry practices. The implementation of these solutions would be jointly funded through cost sharing between the district and landowners to leverage federal and NRCS funds.

Partners: NRCS, ODF

Establish a grant program (or part of restoration program mentioned below) to fund the work of watershed councils, tribes, forest collaboratives, and other partners working to restore healthy landscapes and oak habitats and bring healthy (prescribed) fire back to the landscape (so that we can minimize the risk of catastrophic fire).

Partners: watershed councils, tribes, forest collaboratives, Friends of Buford Park & Mt. Pisgah, McKenzie River Trust, The Nature Conservancy, FUSEE, Mount Pisgah Arboretum, others

Reduce Fire Risk in the Wildland-Urban Interface. This program would be designed in partnership with the ODF to help homeowners create defensible spaces against fire around their houses. The district recognizes that the natural growth of vegetation around houses can get out of hand and the trimming or removal of big trees is daunting task for many homeowners. This program would help create plans for defensible space. We would send out staff members to evaluate the situation and draw up a plan of action and a working budget for a neighborhood or an individual homeowner. We provide lists of contractors, or we contract the work ourselves. We provide cost share for the execution of the work.

Partners: ODF, East Lane Forest Protection Association, watershed councils, others

Invasive Species in the News: Emerald Ash Borer Spotted in Oregon

Because it is an invasive species, North America is not equipped to handle the Emerald Ash Borer. It has no natural predators, and the ash trees have no natural defense mechanisms. The result? Five species of ash tree are now listed as critically endangered. The Oregon Ash and other ash species in Oregon are in danger.

Green Emerald Ash Borer with closed wings

Emerald Ash Borer Spotted in Oregon
July 12, 2022

I was born and raised in Michigan. Just about every summer weekend, I lived in the woods, hiking …

Invasive Species in the News: Emerald Ash Borer Spotted in Oregon

Because it is an invasive species, North America is not equipped to handle the Emerald Ash Borer. It has no natural predators, and the ash trees have no natural defense mechanisms. The result? Five species of ash tree are now listed as critically endangered. The Oregon Ash and other ash species in Oregon are in danger.

Green Emerald Ash Borer with closed wings

Emerald Ash Borer Spotted in Oregon
July 12, 2022

I was born and raised in Michigan. Just about every summer weekend, I lived in the woods, hiking …

Invasive Species FAQ

Invasive species are non-native organisms that, when introduced to new environments, can cause significant harm to ecosystems, biodiversity, and even human activities. These species often outcompete native flora and fauna, disrupt natural habitats, and pose a threat to the delicate balance of ecosystems. Invasive species can spread rapidly, negatively impacting local plants, animals, and the overall ecological health of an area. Addressing the challenges posed by invasive species is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our ecosystems and protecting their diversity.

  1. English Ivy (Hedera helix): This aggressive vine can quickly cover and smother native vegetation, disrupting forest ecosystems.
  2. Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica): Known for its rapid growth and ability to form dense thickets, Japanese Knotweed can outcompete native plants along riverbanks and other water bodies.
  3. Nutria (Myocastor coypus): An invasive rodent, Nutria damages wetland habitats by feeding on aquatic vegetation, leading to erosion and loss of biodiversity.
  4. Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius): This shrub invades open spaces, displacing native vegetation and altering soil conditions.
  5. Quagga Mussel (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis): An invasive mussel species that can negatively impact water quality and outcompete native species in freshwater ecosystems.

Collaborate with local communities, environmental organizations, and authorities to implement comprehensive invasive species management plans, emphasizing prevention, early detection, and rapid response. Educating the community about the importance of preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species is also key to long-term success in preserving our natural habitats.

Not only do we provide technical assistance, but we can also fund you!

We’re here to partner with landowners, conservation nonprofits, and local, state, and federal agencies. We offer FREE site visits, assessments, and technical assistance. See our available grants to learn about funding.