The Silent Invasion:

Ecological & Health Threats of Invasive Species

                A silent invasion is taking place in our precious forests, meadows, and wetlands.  Little by little invasive plants are out-competing native plants as they vie for nutrients to survive.  The list of invasive species is growing at an exponential rate.  These invasives arrive in cargo containers from abroad either as seeds, roots, or plants.  They also are brought into this country intentionally by nurseries who sell them to unsuspecting gardeners who are delighted by the flowers and foliage, but are completely unaware of the ecological havoc these plants can cause in our native ecosystems.  Attempts to eradicate these invasives will always be hampered until the public is made aware of the damage caused by them. One solution is to begin using native plants as substitutes for these invasive species.  Native plants are not only extremely ornamental, they are also well-adapted to the growing conditions in which they will be placed, requiring little or no irrigation, needing no fertilization, and requiring no insecticides.  The use of native plants lessens the destruction of fragile ecosystems that are inundated with chemicals as the result of too much irrigation and use of pesticides and insecticide.

When:               March 27, 2008

                        9:00 am - 4 pm

Where:            Meigs County Extension Office

                        117 E. Memorial Drive, Mulberry Heights

                        P.O. Box 32

                        Pomeroy, Ohio 45769