Invasive plants, pests, and diseases threaten the resilience, survival, and value of Maryland’s forests. They are capable of halting regeneration and diminishing timber production, wildlife habitat quality, and ecosystem services. Maryland Forest Service provides guidance, training, and assistance for public agencies and private landowners to mitigate the impacts of these species on their forests.

Good Green is a Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service initiative to protect native vegetation in our natural areas. The initiative was started as a Landscape Scale Restoration grant from the U.S. Forest Service. Two guidance documents you may find helpful are Good Green: Homeowner's Guide to Managing Invasive Plants, and Good Green: Land Manager's Guide to Managing Invasive Plants.

Emerald Ash Borer - Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle that kills up to 99% of our ash trees. It has moved across the US killing millions of trees. When we lose ash trees from our cities and forests, we lose community value, heating and cooling cost savings, stormwater and water quality management, and carbon storage. Explore the Emerald Ash Borer site to find out how the Emerald Ash Borer could impact you, and what you can do about it.

Invasive Species Education and Management - Invasive plants and insects can be problematic for forest landowners. From vines that take over disturbed areas, forest edges, and tree canopies, to insects that defoliate and girdle trees, these pests not only decimate the natural ecosystem, they are difficult to control and can be expensive to eradicate.

Maryland Department of Agriculture- Forest Pest Management – This is the lead state agency for monitoring, assessing, and managing these species across the state.