Invasive Plant Map
This is the list of all positively identified invasive plant species throughout Cleveland Metroparks. New species will be added once found and identified.
Invasive Plant List
Invasive Plant Tiers
Tier 1 - Early Detection/Rapid Response
These species are known to be highly invasive in natural areas, but are not yet widespread in Cleveland Metroparks. With limited distrabution, immediate action will minimize management cost and long-term ecological impact of these aggressive species.
Action: A GPS point is taken and the invasive plant coordinator should be notified, so the invasive plant management crew can respond accordingly.
Tier 2 - Assess as Needed
The size and extent of these species populations are currently being inventoried with limited geographic information available. This survey will assist with identifying future control targets as populations are defined.
Action: The inventory of these plants is ongoing. The approximate number of plants should be recorded keeping in mind population sizes may be highly variable.
Tier 3 - Presence is of Interest
The species that occur in this tier are likely ornamental escapes. It is not known whether they are established and/or spreading within Cleveland Metroparks. The ecological impact is poorly known for these species.
Action: The presence of these plants should be recorded by approximating the number of plants. Initial population numbers are likely small.
Tier 4 - Widespread and Abundant
These are known problem species throughout Cleveland Metroparks and are currently under active management. Management plans are set using population extent and site-specific information.
Action: These plants should be recored as present or absent. These species are known to be widespread and abundant throughout Cleveland Metroparks.
Core Areas
Designated sensitive, contiguous natural resource areas for priority conservation attention based on CLEVELAND METROPARKS 2020: THE EMERALD NECKLACE CENTENNIAL PLAN. These areas are considered biologically important to our parks and therefore are a priority for invasive plant removal. For more information on how invasive plants are handled throughout Cleveland Metroparks click here.
