Invasive species can have a dramatic impact on the environment, economy, and human health. Invasive plants can outcompete native plants because they have little to no natural predators to moderate their spread, often release poisons that inhibit growth of native plants, have vigorous reproduction strategies, and can disperse easily. Invasive plants can reduce biodiversity, degrade fish and wildlife habitats, alter water quality, disrupt natural erosion processes, distort soil chemistry, and can reduce recreational activities.
Reporting and early detection of these species can help minimize their spread and possibly eradicate species before they become new infestations. To help treat, control, and keep our garden city clean of invasive plants, please report and be aware of spreading any of the following invasive plants:
Note: invasiveness rank prioritizes non-native plant species in Alaska on a scale of 0-100 based on four subcategories of invasiveness: ecological impacts, biological characteristics and dispersal ability, distribution, and feasibility of control.
Other ways to help prevent the spread of invasive species:
Checking tires and boots of invasive plant seeds before going on roads or trails
Left: Common Tansy flowers. Right: Common Tansy leaves.
Common Tansy
(Tanacetum vulgare)
Invasiveness Rank: 60
Characteristics
Stem is woody with a purple-red tint
Leaves are twice-divided into narrow toothed segments
Leaves exude a strong odor when crushed
Flower heads have many button-like flowers
Habitat: roadsides, streams, waste places
Impact: overcrowding, native displacement
Left: Narrowleaf Hawksbeard flowers. Right: Close up of Narrowleaf Hawksbeard leaf.
Narrowleaf Hawksbeard
(Crepis tectorum)
Invasiveness Rank: 56
Characteristics
Stem leaves are narrow and have extensions at the base that appear to clasp the stem
Sepals at the base of the flower are hairy
Flower heads are stalked (branched)
Similar to dandelions from afar but taller
Habitat: roadsides, fencing, railroads
Impact: overcrowding, forms monocultures
*Uncommon species that have been found recently within the area, please report immediately. If found, take a clear photograph of the species, a description of where it was found, and the coordinates of where it was found, if possible. Report findings to the Natural Resources Department at (907) 983-9240.
Last updated: May 25, 2017
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Contact Info
Mailing Address:
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
P.O. Box 517
Skagway
,
AK
99840