Mayo Council Raises Concern Over Expanding Invasive Plant Species Impacting Farmland

Invasive species are posing significant threats to ecosystems across various U.S. states, including Mayo in Ireland, New York, and Virginia. In Mayo, the invasive plant gunnera is rapidly spreading, affecting farmland eligibility for subsidy programs and blocking native vegetation and drainage. New York faces threats from invasive insects like the Asian longhorned beetle and emerald ash borer, as well as dangerous plants such as giant hogweed, which damages both forests and public health. Virginia's 2025 Invasive Species Management Plan identifies a dozen high-risk species, including spotted lanternflies and nutria, emphasizing early detection and public cooperation to prevent ecological and economic damage. Efforts to educate the public, such as guided walks organized by land trusts, aim to raise awareness about identifying and controlling invasive species. Furthermore, Virginia's broader wildlife conservation plan highlights the importance of protecting nearly 2,000 vulnerable species, including plants newly added to their monitoring efforts, illustrating the intertwined challenges of managing invasive species and conserving native biodiversity.