2015 ASHS Annual Conference

August 02 - 07, 2015

Non-native, or alien plant species, are commonly introduced into new geographical regions for food, fiber, fuel, medicinal or ornamental use, or often times introduced inadvertently. Regardless of the means of introduction, certain plant species have the ability to outcompete native vegetation and can begin to cause significant ecological damage by displacing native vegetation and wildlife, invading crop land, and impeding waterways. It is estimated that more than $25 billion is spent each year to control over 5,000 invasive plant species in the United States alone. Due to increasing urbanization, water restrictions, and global climate change, there is a growing concern regarding the negative impacts of invasive species on our environment and if current management practices will remain effective in the future. Objectives of this workshop are to present approaches to invasive plant management and how current strategies will need to be altered to meet future challenges.