AFS Invasive Species Management

Stop introduced species from overtaking your landscape

Invasive species often pose a special concern when it comes to fire safety. Common invasive species include Scotch broom, Himalayan blackberry, and yellow star-thistle. The aggressive growth habits of these plants can make them hard to control and dangerous if left untamed.

We have developed strategies for controlling many of the invasive plants common to the foothills. These introduced species are often poorly adapted to fire in comparison to the native species of the region. This is a weakness that we can easily use to our advantage. A combination of cutting and prescribed burning at the right times of year can reduce or eliminate these problematic species without the need for spraying.

Using fire as a primary tool, we are able to simultaneously control invasive plant species, and promote native species which recover quicker from the low-intensity prescribed fire.

We also have options available to physically remove remaining invasive plants following fire treatment, and options to repopulate treated areas with native species to decrease erosion, increase visual appeal, and create beneficial habitat for wildlife.