Invasive Species Identification

Invasive species pose a serious threat to the forests of Western North Carolina by outcompeting native plants, altering habitats, and reducing biodiversity. Identifying these species early is critical to protecting the region’s rich and diverse ecosystems. Common invasive plants such as kudzu, tree-of-heaven, multiflora rose, and Asiatic bittersweet can quickly dominate forest understories and edges. Learning to recognize the distinctive features of these invaders, such as leaf shape, bark texture, and growth patterns, helps landowners and forest stewards take timely action. Through careful monitoring and management, we can slow the spread of invasive species and promote healthier, more resilient forests across the Appalachian mountains of Western North Carolina.


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Whether you own land, manage woodland, or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, you can make a difference. Learn to identify invasive plants, remove small infestations before they spread, and choose native species when landscaping or replanting. Every effort, big or small, helps restore balance to our forests and safeguard native biodiversity for generations to come. Join the movement to keep Western North Carolina’s forests healthy, resilient, and thriving!