The following blog post is a summary of the article “What to do when a plant is invasive but also serves a purpose” by Kea Krause, published on July 24th, 2023 in Sierra magazine. To read the original article, click here.
Rosa rugosa, commonly known as the beach rose, has become a symbol of Maine’s coastal landscapes, though it is not native to the region. Originally from Asia, the plant has spread rapidly, outcompeting native species and becoming a dominant presence along the shore. Recognizing its invasive nature, the Maine State Terrestrial Invasive Plant Stakeholder Committee considered adding the beach rose to its list of banned plants in 2022. However, because of its ability to thrive in high-salinity environments where other plants struggle, the committee designated it as an “invasive terrestrial plant species of special concern” rather than fully prohibiting its sale. This classification reflects Maine’s nuanced approach to invasive species management, balancing ecological concerns with the practical uses of certain plants.
Maine has been proactive in tackling invasive species through plant bans, despite the challenges of enforcement. The committee reviewed 273 plant species in its five-year reassessment, ultimately doubling the number of prohibited plants. The state has taken an aggressive stance on mitigation, recognizing the importance of maintaining biodiversity, particularly in its forests, which cover 90% of the state. Conservationists emphasize that invasive plants threaten native ecosystems by crowding out essential understory vegetation, which is crucial for forest regeneration. While some skeptics argue that plant bans are ineffective due to ongoing sales in retail stores nationwide, Maine has supplemented its bans with educational outreach and a watch list of potential future threats.
Despite these efforts, climate change poses a persistent challenge by facilitating the spread of invasive species through extreme weather events. Heavy rains and flooding in Maine illustrate how plant material can be transported over long distances, undermining human attempts at control. State horticulturist Gary Fish advocates for further advancements, such as DNA testing technology, to better monitor invasive species. While plant bans are not a perfect solution, they serve as an essential tool for slowing the spread of harmful species rather than eliminating them outright. The next stakeholder review in 2027 will assess progress, and experts remain optimistic that continued collaboration with plant sellers and the public will strengthen Maine’s ecological resilience.