Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council

AFTER THE INVASION: THE HOPE OF ECOLOGICAL RESETORATION. David Borland, Restoration Ecologist, The Nature Conservancy of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35203. (dave.borland@tnc.org)

Abstract

The invasive, non-native species rapidly expanding their ranges and prevalence in the southern United States compete so successfully with native communities that indigenous vegetation is reduced year after year. The uncontrolled spread of invasive, non-native vegetation further impoverishes not only the native landscapes, but human values and habitats. In many of our remnant landscapes where invasive vegetation hold sway, ecological services, wildlife and ground-layer diversity has collapsed. This modern dilemma may initiate inaction in some individuals, brought on from a sense of increased programmatic anxiety and personal despair. Without underestimating the task of controlling invasive, non-native species however, those of us with optimism, resolve, persistence and patience realize that the concepts, strategies and practice of ecological restoration provide a practical hope for future society, protecting natural capital and ecosystem sustainability. This presentation will explore the integration of ecological restoration principles in the broad-scale planning and actions directed toward controlling invasive non-native species.

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