Why are invasive plants a problem?
An invasive plant is not native to the area but has been introduced and damages the natural environment. Since these plants are in a new environment, without natural predators, parasites, or competitors of their native habitats, they can have very high population sizes. These large populations can compete with and crowd out native species or can limit wildlife food and habitat. Some species can also disrupt vital ecosystem functions. Other invasive plants cause enormous economic damage to agriculture. They can damage or kill crops, clog equipment and contaminate products. Some invasive plants can even directly harm humans or pets.
Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA)
- A Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA) is a partnerships of federal, state and local government agencies, tribes, individuals, and various interested groups that manage noxious weeds or invasive plants in a defined area.
- CWMAs can help coordinate efforts led by agencies and organizations involved actively manage invasive plants. It enables us to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of management activities, manage across jurisdictions, pool available resources, and prioritize issues.
- CWMAs occupy a defined geographic area with a common geography, weed problem, community, climate, political boundary, or land use.
- The majority of landowners and natural resource managers in the area are involved or represented.
- CWMAs are committed to cooperation.
- CWMAs operate under a comprehensive plan that addresses the management or prevention of one or more noxious weeds or invasive plants.