Invasives in Vermont: Narrative

For this project we will be looking at invasive species in Vermont and innovative solutions to controlling them. Within this topic we will each be doing individual studies on various invasive species in Vermont. Matt Hollingsworth will be researching Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and the Asian longhorn beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) as a potential threat, Meagan Murray will be researching Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and the house sparrow (Passer domesticus), Molly Alves will be researching purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and the ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), Sabrina Smits will be researching knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Dutch elm disease, and Norah Carlos will be researching honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.) and alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus).

 As a group we are interested in discovering the solutions, impacts, community awareness, nonprofit efforts, and effect on biodiversity of these invasive species. These practitioners appeal to us because the take-over of invasive species is detrimental to the biodiversity of Vermont. Invasive species are perpetuated by human activity and will not be controlled/eradicated without human aid.