Manage an Infestation
Numerous control options are available for managing an invasive species infestation, and selecting the appropriate technique will depend on a number of key factors including the species, site conditions, and management goals. For the most up-to-date, comprehensive guidance on managing infestations on your property, refer to APIPP’s free Invasive Species Best Management Practices document.
APIPP promotes the principles of Integrated Invasive Plant Management (IPM) when managing invasive species. IPM is a common-sense approach that assesses all available control options to implement the strategy that is the most effective and least impactful to the surrounding landscape.
Developing a Management Plan
Before acting, it’s important to consider the following to help develop a management plan:
- Species ID: The biology and dispersal methods of your target species will help determine which management techniques are most appropriate. Questions for consideration include: Is it a plant or animal? Does it live in water or on land? Is it an annual or perennial plant? Is it an herbaceous or woody plant?
- Size of the infestation: Infestations can be relatively small, or they can consume more than an acre. The size of the infestation will influence which management tools are used and the level of commitment that will be required to successfully control an infestation.
- Site conditions: The location of an infestation may influence which tools and techniques are available for use. For example, infestations in aquatic or wetland settings may require more sensitive approaches.
- Costs: Prevention is always the most cost-effective strategy for controlling invasive species. As invasive species become more established, the number of resources needed to control the infestation will increase. Remember, it is much easier to prevent the spread of invasives than it is to deal with them once they’ve become established.
- Invasive species impact: To determine how high of a priority an infestation is, consider how much of a negative impact it will have on things like the environment, economy, or human health.
