Pepperell Invasive Plants

What are Invasive plants?  

Plants that are not native to our area that were introduced either intentionally or unintentionally, and whose introduction has caused ecological or economic harm, or harm to human health.    


Why are Invasive Plants Harmful? 

Ecological Harm: Invasive plants quickly establish self-sustaining populations and compete with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients and space. Because invasive plants did not evolve here, many have no natural predators to help keep populations in check. 


Economic Harm: A Cornell University study revealed invasive species cause $127 billion annually to the American Economy. They affect agricultural crops livestock, and forests. 

Invasive Plants in Pepperell 

There are 69 plant species found in Massachusetts that are categorized as "Invasive," "Likely Invasive," or "Potentially Invasive." Mass Invasive Plant List. 


The Pepperell Invasive Plant Advisory Committee has narrowed down that list to those most-frequently seen and of greatest concern in town.  


  • Asian Bittersweet
  • Buckthorn
  • Burning Bush
  • Bush Honeysuckle
  • Garlic Mustard
  • Japanese Knotweed
  • Japanese Barberry
  • Multiflora Rose



Treatment and Disposal of Invasive Plants 

Recommended Removal and Disposal;  either one of these would be good to just link to -  Proper Disposal Brochure-courtesy of Groton Invasive Species Committee  


Chemical Treatments.  In Massachusetts, chemical control (herbicide) options are regulated by the Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Pesticide Program, and details can be found at  Massachusetts Pesticide Program.  The Town of Pepperell does not have a licensed herbicide applicator. Before any use on their own land, citizens should educate themselves on safety and the hazards associated with use of herbicides before use. 


Free Equipment Loan - The town has two weed wrenches available for short-term loans to groups and residents.  Weed wrenches are manually-operated tools designed to pull up woody plants, such as buckthorn, by uprooting. To arrange for a loan, contact: invcomm@town.Pepperell.ma.us

 

What Can You Do? 

   - Volunteer for Local Events

   - Monitor and maintain invasive plants on your own property or neighborhood

   

   

Want to Know More? 

Massachusetts State Information

Mass Invasive Plant Lists

National Invasive Species Council 

Groton Invasive Species Committee

    Center for Invasive Species and Ecolosystem Health