Q & A

What is ASTA’s position on invasive species?

ASTA has long recognized the need to identify, monitor and, when necessary, control or eradicate plants that adversely affect the environment, production agriculture, conservation efforts, or cause harm to the economy or human health. In many instances, an invasive species is a harmful species. ASTA will continue to support the efforts of the federal government, Invasive Species Council and interested state agencies to protect the U.S. agricultural industry from such species. However, some plants are being inappropriately listed as invasive species by state or federal agencies. Such measures could significantly reduce the distribution and use of many beneficial plants that have long been used in production agriculture for forage and livestock feed, soil conservation and stabilization, and ornamental purposes.