Boards & Commissions

Invasive Species

Invasive species are plants that have been introduced to an area that can alter and damage the ecological relationship among native species. The list below contains some of the more aggressive invasive plants found in Bernards Township. The Environmental Commission recommends that all development applications be checked against this list to insure that invasive species are not listed. Township residents should learn to identify each species. Due to their highly aggressive nature, we urge you not to plant them on your property.

Trees

Black Locust - Robinia pseudoacacia
Norway Maple - Acer platanoides
Tree of Heaven - Alianthus altissima

Shrubs

Autumn Olive - Elaeaghus angustifolia
Japanese Barberry - Berberis thunbergii
Multiflora Rose - Rosa multiflora
Russian Olive - Elaeaghus angustifolia

Vines

Japanese Honeysuckle - Lonicera japonica
Oriental Bittersweet - Celastrus orbiculatus

Herbaceous

Common Reed - Phragmites australis
Japanese Knotweed - Polygonium cuspidatam
Purple Loosestrife - Lythrum salicaria

Grasses

Japanese Stilt Grass - Microstegium vimineum

For a complete list of invasive species, to aid in identification, and to learn the best methods for control please visit the United States Department of Agriculture National Invasive Species Information Center.