Why focus on invasive pest plants?
The Southern Appalachians are one of the most diverse temperate ecosystems in the world. Many factors, principally man-induced, now threaten the diversity of this region. One of these factors, invasive pest plants, is of growing concern. In June 1996, the Southern Appalachian Man and Biosphere (SAMAB) Cooperative, a 12-federal and 3-state agency cooperative, released an assessment of the Southern Appalachian region. Invasive pests, which included diseases, insects, mammals, etc., were identified as a major threat to the region. Following that report, SAMAB conducted the Southern Appalachian Biological Control Workshop through funding provided by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Biological Resource Division and National Biological Control Institute on the impacts of exotic pests and biocontrol methods to manage those species. Of the numerous exotic insects, diseases, and pest plants discussed among those in attendance, it was unanimous that public education was vital and es
