“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” As in health care, this philosophy is important in wildland stewardship. Preventing the introduction of invasive plants is more cost-effective than managing infestations that become established.
One important area of prevention is import regulation. California’s border stations and port-of-entry inspections play an essential role in preventing the introduction of known invasive species. Cal-IPC works with national partners to strengthen restrictions established by the USDA.
Invasive plants can be spread to new sites on clothing, vehicles, or project materials. Anyone working in or visiting wildlands can inadvertently provide a pathway for invasive plants to spread. Cal-IPC works with partners to prevent the spread of invasive plants by developing prevention Best Management Practices and resources for weed-free materials.
Prevention Training Videos
Learn more about preventing the spread of invasive plants while watching educational videos and film shot during a prevention workshop at our Prevention Training Videos page.
Weed-Free Forage and Straw Resources
Feed and straw used for land management activities can introduce invasive plants to worksites. Using weed-free forage and straw can prevent the spread of invasive plants.
UC Cooperative Extension worked with California Department of Food and Agriculture and County Agriculture Commissioners throughout the state to provide a list of vendors that have certified weed-free forage and/straw for sale in California. Visit the Weed-Free Forage and Straw Resources page for this list as well as additional resources.
Weed-Free Aggregate Resources
Aggregate such as sand and gravel can introduce invasive plants to worksites. The following resources can be located on the Weed-Free Aggegrate Resources page:
- Manual for weed-free quarries and gravel pits
- Regional programs information
Responsible Landscaping
We are working in partnership with the horticultural industry, landscape pros, and individual gardeners to prevent the introduction of invasive plants. Learn more about the tools available, including our popular Don’t Plant a Pest program, which offers alternatives to invasive plants often used in landscaping.
Prevention BMPs and other resources
Check out the Library for our selection of Best Management Practices, including: BMPs for Land Managers, BMPs for Transportation and Utility Corridors, and BMPs for Protecting Wildlife When Using Herbicides.
For more information, contact us at training@cal-ipc.org