Nonnative Species

Spotted knapweed is a noxious weed that is a threat to park biodiversity.

NSP Photo

Invasions of exotic species represent one of the most serious threats to natural ecosystem integrity. Biological invasions are occurring at accelerated rates in nearly every major ecosystem. Invasive nonnative plant species are of concern given their ability to quickly expand into new areas, compete with and exclude native species, and alter ecosystem processes. At Big Hole National Battlefield, invasive plants, most of which are nonnative species, pose one of the greatest threats to natural and cultural resources and have been identified as a high priority management responsibility.

"Weeds" can be defined in many ways. The average person uses the term "weed" to refer to plants growing where they are not wanted, are a nuisance, unsightly, or harmful. Although there is truth to all these definitions, these statements minimize the impact of weeds on humans and the environment and disregard some fundamental biological features of weeds that set them apart from most other plants.

 

Park staff use proven Integrated Pest Management procedures to lessen the negative impacts invasive species have on our ecosystem.

NPS photo

The following is a list of “weedy characteristics,” many of which are possessed by the most destructive weeds in the world.

• Parasitic on crop plants

• Poisonous

• Unpalatable/nutritionally poor/taints animal products

• Alters physical characteristics of products (i.e., wool imperfections, dyes, etc.)

• Reduces crop value

• Hosts for diseases and other pests

• Block waterways

• Hinders the functioning of farm equipment

• Affects manmade environments other than agricultural land

• Socially unacceptable (i.e., marijuana, poppies, etc.)

• Directly interferes with crops and other plants

Park staff are making a concerted effort to locate, identify, and treat these weeds with proven Integrated Pest Management procedures. This is important to guarantee that federally and state listed noxious weeds and other nonnative species do not gain a foothold and then replace the native plant communities found here.