Invasive Species

How do invasive exotic plants harm our community?

Interfere with public water systems by obstructing pipes and drainage systems
Form dense beds in water, making swimming, fishing, and boating difficult and dangerous
Lower water levels in lakes, streams, and wetlands through excessive water uptake
Have weak root systems that promote erosion on stream banks and hillsides
Become "weedy" and overgrown as landscaping ornamentals and require regular maintenance and often hazardous chemicals to control
May kill established shade trees

What are "native" and "exotic" plants?

Native Plants -
that occur naturally in
a particular place without human
involvement. Species native to
North American are generally
recognized as those occurring
here before Europeans arrived.
These plants generally grow well
in Alabama's weather and soils and
with other native plants. They require
less care when used for landscaping
and provide the preferred food and
shelter for local wildlife

Exotic, introduced alien or non-native plants -
are plants that have been moved from their
native habitat to a new area by people.
Some exotic plants are intentionally imported
for human use (landscaping, erosion control,
food crops, etc.). Other exotic plants arrive
accidentally as "hitchhikers" in shipments of
plants, seed, packing material, or fresh
produce from other areas. While many exotic
plants have little or no harmful impact on our
communities or natural areas, exotic plants
are more likely than native plants to escape
their intended habitat and become invasive.

Information Provided by: Storm Water Management Authority