PENNSYLVANIA —Invasive species pose a significant threat to bio diversity worldwide. Pennsylvania has identified over 250 invasive species—ranging from plants and insects to pathogens and animals—that inflict hundreds of millions in environmental and agricultural damage each year.

Historically, many of these species were introduced for their ornamental appeal. Plants like Callery pear, tree-of-heaven, and Norway maple were once celebrated for their beauty, rapid growth, and easy maintenance. However, ongoing studies and environmental monitoring have revealed that their rapid, unchecked spread now imperils native ecosystems, prompting urgent efforts to manage and restore local biodiversity.

To empower homeowners, landscapers, and garden enthusiasts to make informed decisions, Pennsylvania Sea Grant has released the free "Choose Native" guide. This comprehensive resource offers valuable insights for landscaping, garden design, and water gardening, encouraging the adoption of native species over non-native alternatives.

Complementing these educational initiatives, the Pennsylvania Governor's Invasive Species Council has launched the innovative Invasive Replace-ive Program. This new initiative provides property owners with the option to remove invasive trees and shrubs from their properties and replace them with native trees. Such measures aim to curb the risk of invasive species spreading to neighboring areas, parks, and forests while enhancing urban biodiversity.

The program will be showcased through events at five locations across the state: Erie, Darby, Greensburg, Carlisle and Scranton. Property owners who participate by removing invasive species can receive up to five free, healthy native replacement trees. Preregistration is required, and the available species may vary by location. Examples of the native species on offer include redbud, Allegheny serviceberry, shagbark hickory, white oak, hazelnut, blackgum, Carolina silverbell, and persimmon.

For more information and to register for the program, please visit the official website:
PA Invasive Replace-ive Program.