Invasive Plant Monitoring and Science Needs. Jack Ranney, Invasive Spp. Leader, S. Appalachian Man & Biosphere. (jwranney@utk.edu)

ABSTRACT

Science-based management of invasive plants depends on, and should often direct, the ways these plants are monitored. Science tends to focus on plant biology, habitat conditions/dynamics, invasion biology, and the modeling of invasions. The modeling component is vital to predicting risks/vulnerabilities, impacts, rates of spread, strategic management options, and their effectiveness. The tools for modeling are still in a formative stage and will have growing impact on the design of monitoring programs. Some important monitoring variables are identified.