MANAGE FORESTS & LAND

  • FOREST HEALTH: INVASIVE SPECIES

    Invasive species include a variety of plants, insects and animals that have been introduced from other regions/ecosystems and cause, or are likely to cause, harm to the economy, environment or human health.

    Invasive species produce a measurable impact and if left unchecked, can threaten native species, biodiversity, ecosystem services, wildlife, water resources, agricultural and forest production, economics and property values.

    These species are a concern because they grow, reproduce and spread rapidly, establish over large areas and persist in the environment. Species that are invasive succeed because of their ability to thrive in favorable environments, due to the lack of natural predators, competitors and diseases that normally regulate their populations.

    It is important to monitor your property for invasive species and take steps to control them when possible. Visit texasinvasives.org and contact Texas A&M Forest Service or your county extension agent for more information.

    For more on invasive trees specific to Texas regions click here.

    		 

     + Defining species
    Native – a species that has evolved and occurs naturally in a region, ecosystem or habitat

    Non-native – a species that does not originate in the area or region in which it was found

    Invasive – a plant, animal or other organism that is non-native to a particular ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment or human health

    Naturalized – a non-native species whose introduction into the region can be identified and is reproducing naturally but is not acting aggressive or invasive in the landscape

    Endemic – a native species that is only found in one region or area
     + Invasive Insects

    Chalcid Wasp

    Emerald Ash Borer

    Redbay Ambrosia Beetle

    Soapberry Borer

     

     + Invasive Trees

    Invasive Trees in Texas by Region 

    Chinese Tallow

    Giant Asian Dodder

    Brazilian peppertree

     + Contact

     

    Texas A&M Forest Service Contacts

    Texas A&M Forest Service personnel are a quick and easy way for you to find someone who can help you or direct you to someone who can.

    ISA Texas Certified Arborists

    The International Society of Arboriculture provides a list of arborists that can help you locate an arborist in your area.

    Professional Land Management Service Providers

    For help managing your land, contact a Professional Land Management Service Provider.

     

     

     
  • RELATED INFORMATION