What are Invasive Species?

Invasive Species are any flora or fauna that is not native to an area, whose presence causes harm to the ecosystem it’s been introduced into.

As Foresters, we are mostly focused on invasive plant species that work their way into the forest and have negative impacts on the current and future health of the forest.

Ridge and Valley is equipped to control Invasive Plant infestations on private and public land. Our team has their Commercial Applicator Licenses to safely apply herbicide on a variety of non-native species.

The best time to treat Invasive Plants is before they take over your entire woodlot! Contact Us Today!

Why Remove Invasive Species?

Typically, an infestation of Invasive Species within the forest can:

• Grow so thick that sunlight no longer reaches the forest floor

• Outcompete native understory plants which decreases biodiversity

• Change the soil chemistry to prevent native seeds from germinating

• Create thick pockets without a food source for wildlife

In northern New Jersey, there are many invasive plants that have become well-established, including in forested areas. Most Invasive Species within NJ aren’t food sources for any wildlife and left unmitigated, will spread uncontrollably to take over the understory.

Invasive Species can be removed through a variety of methods:

• Herbicide Application

• Repeated Cutting

• Hand Pulling or Pulling with Tools

• Controlled Burning

  Different methods work better for each type of plant. Explore below for more information on many problem plants found in our area, as well as details on invasive animals: