Chipping invasive plants at Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

By cutting, pulling, burning and with the use of herbicides, we control exotic invasive plant species and reduce or eliminate them from our Natural Areas. By encouraging native plants and reintroducing fire we are tipping the balance back in favor of our native species and the natural processes which have shaped these ecosystems for millennia.
 
Exotic invasive species are a major threat to many ecosystems worldwide and the second leading cause of extinction behind habitat destruction. At MBGNA many of the native ecosystems are threatened by exotic invasive plants. These exotic plants shade out natives, produce abundant seed, and alter natural processes such as nutrient cycling and fire. Contact us if you'd like to learn more and if you'd like to help us with our Ecological Restoration efforts.