Introduction

Invasive plant species pose one of the greatest threats to the conservation of biological diversity, and are a significant problem for land managers across New York State. Over 30% of the state's flora is non-native in origin, although not all are invasive.

Invasive species are considered second only to habitat destruction as a threat to our rich biological diversity, and invasive plants pose problems for many aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. From Long Island's Atlantic coast to the shores of Lake Erie and the Canadian Border, invasive plants are disrupting New York's ecosystems and threatening native species of plants and animals.

Purpose

The purpose of the Invasive Plant Council of New York State is to provide an information clearinghouse for invasive plant identification, research and management. We serve needs of the general public; local, state, and federal government and their agencies; the academic and scientific communities; the business community; and not-for-profit organizations concerning invasive plant issues in New York State. 

The work of the IPC will include providing coordination and guidance on the management of invasive plants in New York State, and will be accomplished by:

• Identifying the type and extent of impacts of invasive plants on biodiversity
• Developing working lists of invasive plants and guidelines for their management
• Compiling and facilitating access to information on invasive plants
• Promoting alternatives to the use of invasive plants
• Establishing statewide objectives for management of invasive plants
• Sponsoring and facilitating conferences and forums on invasive plants and their management
• Identifying potential and new plant invasions, facilitating awareness of invasive plant spread and associated ecological impacts, and promoting aggressive control as appropriate

Incorporation of IPC NYS

Although widespread interest in the ecological impacts of invasive plants has increased dramatically, there has been very little coordinated effort to address the problems associated with invasive plant species in New York. Since 1994, individuals from a number of State and Federal agencies and non-profit organizations have met to discuss how to develop a comprehensive statewide effort to increase public and agency awareness of invasive species issues and develop practical field tools for the control of the most serious invasive plant species.

As a result of these meetings, the Invasive Plant Council of New York State was incorporated in 1999. Our goal is to organize an effective partnership among public and private organizations to address the need for invasive species information and control across the state. Working together, public and private agencies and concerned private citizens will find practical solutions to invasive species problems and protect our diverse natural heritage.