The Impact of Invasive Plants
Non-native invasive species lack natural checks and balances in their new ecosystems, allowing them to outcompete native species and degrade local habitats. See below for how invasive plant species impact Kentuckians.
Ecology
Invasive plant species alter the health and function of local ecosystems including woodlands, grasslands, and waterways. These changes impact native plants, animals, and the health of our waters.
Economy
Increased management expenses for agriculture and timber industries, compromised fisheries, and diminished tourism are caused by non-native invasive plants.
Safety
Many invasive plant species can grow more rapidly than native species, encroaching into roadways and other public spaces. Lines of sight can be compromised for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
Culture
Kentucky has a proud cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its native ecosystems. Hunting, fishing, and even the bourbon industry are all impacted by non-native invasive species.
Invasive Species Occurrence Map
Click the arrow on the top left corner of the map to reveal the map key. Click the search button at the top right corner of the map to search your address and find out what species might be impacting your local ecology! Habitat descriptions can be explored below.
This occurrence map shows what invasive plant species are likely to occur based on habitat types in Franklin County, Kentucky. See below for habitat descriptions.
Woodlands
Dark green areas on the interactive map represent woodland habitat. This habitat has varying degrees of bush honeysuckle infestation. In Franklin County, infestation hotspots for bush honeysuckle include all unpaved, wooded land within the city limits and shaded areas along roadways throughout the county. Garlic mustard can be found in many of our moist woodland areas.
Open Lands
Yellow areas represent open habitat. Open habitat has some degree of Johnson grass, Bradford pear, poison hemlock and/or vetch infestation.
Wetlands
Light green areas, representing wetland habitats, are likely infested with Japanese hops, Japanese stiltgrass and other wet soil invaders. This includes the Kentucky River corridor.
General Urban
The city of Frankfort, represented in light red, is generally the epicenter of the most dense invasive infestations in the county, including Bradford pear, bush honeysuckle, winter creeper, Japanese hops, English ivy, and privet.
