An invasive is a plant, insect or animal from another part of the world (introduced intentionally or accidentally), which is capable of spreading rapidly, causing ecological/economic harm or is a threat to human health.

​

What’s the big deal, aren’t all plants the same?

Many native species have adapted over thousands of years to live in harmony in the ecosystem… animals eat certain plants and some butterflies only lay eggs on specific native plants/trees. This native biodiversity is threatened when a few nasty plant species (invasives) take over and dominate the herbaceous, shrub, or canopy layers of a forest.

Don’t plant invasive species in your yard and replace any existing invasive plants with native species. Check out the county’s site for creating a conservation landscape of native plants. Also, check out this more complete native plant list for Cabin John Creek Stream Valley Park.

Become a Weed Warrior! These volunteers work during the year to control invasives in our county parks.

​

Use the iNaturalist​ app to identify the good and bad plants along the trail.