Use these resources to learn more about terrestrial invasive plant species, land management, and volunteer opportunities.
Basics of Invasives
What Makes a Plant Invasive?
More on why invasive plants have a competitive advantage over native plants, where they invade, how they are spread, and why you should care.
Impacts of Invasives
More on ecological and economic impacts of invasive species including how they cause the loss of revenue from timber sales by reducing forest regeneration, displace native species, and disrupt the food chain.
Vermont Noxious Weed Quarantine List and Rules
The Noxious Weed Quarantine List exists to protect Vermont's environmental and economic resources. Non-native plants that pose a serious threat to Vermont are classified as class A (plant not yet in the state) or class B (plants with limited distribution in the state) noxious weeds. It is illegal to purchase, plant, or transport plants on the quarantine list.
Developing a Management Plan
Early Detection Rapid Response
Early detection rapid response is an important management method that increases the likelihood of successful control, and even eradication, of invasive species. This method focuses on actively searching for invasive species on your property and systematically controlling or containing the infestation to prevent further spread.
Landowner Guide to Invasive Plant Assessment
Step by step instructions on how to carry out an invasive plant assessment on your property. Assessments are helpful first steps in developing a management plan by providing an overview of what species are present and their distribution and abundance. Use the LIEP program to help you identify invasive plants on your property!
Developing an Invasive Plant Management Plan
Tips and steps for developing a management plant for invasive species on your property. Important aspects of a management plan include outlining land management goals, integrating best management practices, and developing a reasonable timeline.
Forestry Best Management Practices
Twenty best management practices developed by land managers to protect Vermont’s forests and natural communities. These practices cover education and prevention to treatment and restoration to forest management.
Invasive Terrestrial Plant Property Assessment Form
A brief form to guide an invasive plant assessment focusing on land management goals, habitat types present, and level and location of infestations to direct next steps.
Invasive Plant Management Plan Template
An in depth outline of a management plan that offers instructions and examples within the template to help you develop a comprehensive invasive plant management plan.
Treatment and Restoration
Invasive Plant Treatment Methods
In-depth descriptions of manual, mechanical, and chemical treatment methods. Be aware that every invasive plant species responds differently to various treatment methods, and treatment plans must be tailored to specific infestations.
Supplies for Invasives Control Work Days
A list of suggested supplies for manual removal of invasive plants i.e. work gloves, folding saws, weed wrench, etc.
Herbicide Use
More information and tips on herbicide application. Uncertified chemical treatment can only be done on your own property. Hire a contractor for large infestations or invasives growing in sensitive areas (e.g. near water or rare, native species).
Hiring a Contractor
What to look for when hiring a contractor, including a degree and/or experience in the natural resources field, certification as a commercial pesticide applicator, and a willingness to produce a written management plan.
Pesticide Regulation - VT Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture’s resource page for everything about pesticide use including regulations, permits, and training courses for certification.
Wetland Rules - VT Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC’s wetlands program provides information about everything from regulations and permits to allowed uses and conservation and restoration of wetlands. Contact (802) 490-6177 with questions about managing invasive species in or near wetlands.
Guidelines for Site Restoration
More on how to determine if an invasive plant treatment site needs restoration and resources to aid in restoration if needed. Restoration typically entails planting native species appropriate to the site.
Native Plant Sources in Vermont
Information on five nurseries around the state that offer native Vermont plant species.
Alternatives to Common Invasive Plants
A table offering examples of non-invasive alternatives to six commonly planted invasives as well as descriptions and habitat types of select non-invasive species.
Native Perennials and Shrubs for Vermont Gardens
A table of native plant options listed with descriptions of their flowers, habitat types, and what pollinators they attract.
Funding Opportunities and Partners
Possible Partners in Vermont
A list of state and regional organizations with descriptions of the types of conservation and management projects they cover. The Nature Conservancy, the forestry division of the Department of Forest, Parks, and Recreation, the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and many others are involved in invasive species management and outreach.
NRCS's Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
More on eligibility, applying, funding, and programs you can sign up for based on Vermont’s priorities, which include water quality, soil health, and forestry and wildlife.
EQIP and VT Fish and Wildlife
More on how Fish and Wildlife partners with EQIP to help you implement habitat improvement projects.
A Landowner's Guide to Seeking Funding from the NRCS
More on the EQIP process after an application is approved including planning and implementing the project, reimbursement, and the responsibilities of the landowner, land manager or forester, NRCS staff, and any hired contractors.
More Funding Opportunities
Possible funding options besides EQIP such as other USDA grants, grants from the Lake Champlain Basin Program, or funds from private donors and foundations like the Vermont Community Foundation.
*Note: The NRCS WHIP program was repealed in 2014 and aspects of that program were rolled into the EQIP program.