Why we dedicate time and energy to removing Alien Invasive Plants in Bazley
You might wonder why so much effort is invested in removing alien invasive plant species (AIPs) in Bazley. The reason is straightforward: without intervention, Bazley’s natural vegetation would be overwhelmed by these invaders, as illustrated in the picture above. Our indigenous plants simply cannot compete with these aggressive species, leading to their eventual suffocation and death. This would leave our landscape barren of the beautiful plants that support our local wildlife and birds, instead replacing it with an unsightly tangle of AIPs, many of which are toxic.
If you’re skeptical, take a drive down Reservoir Road and continue up the dirt road. On the left, on Illovo ground, you’ll see a stark example of what Bazley could become. This area is overrun with invasive species, giving us a glimpse of what the future might hold if we do nothing.
Recently, Elizabeth Forsdick and I visited this area to catalogue the invasive plants present. Here are some of the species we identified—most of which are classified as Category 1b plants. These are species that must be controlled and, whenever possible, removed and destroyed:
- Brazilian pepper tree
- Bugweed
- Castor-oil plant
- Chromolaena odorata
- Common morning glory
- Erect sword fern
- Giant reed
- Indian shot Canna
- Inkberry
- Lantana
- Mexican sunflower
- Peanut butter cassia
- Syringa tree
For more on each of these invasive plant species, visit Invasives.org.
The Bazley Conservancy remains committed to this ongoing battle against the relentless spread of invasive plants. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the residents who continue to support our efforts in preserving Bazley’s natural heritage.
