Invasive Vine Management

Abstract

Whether it is Japanese honeysuckle, Oriental bittersweet, Mile-a-minute weed, or any of the other invasive vines present in northeastern U.S. urban forest systems, vines present a continuous burden on urban forest edges. The effects of invasive vines range from mere nuisances to ecological damage, often by smothering native vegetation. In most cases, given their rapid growth and strong root systems, conventional physical removal may not suffice to resolve such issues. The Columbia Association faces issues of fragmented and vine-covered urban forests, a lack of public understanding and support for reforestation, as well as budget restrictions that rule out many physically intensive solutions, and while invasive vines are not the only issue at hand, they are an integral part of the system supporting these negative factors. Invasive vines are not only a nuisance aesthetically, but are also a key factor in the perpetuation of many forest edge issues, including damage to trees and the choking out of native competitors.