Invasive alien plant management.

Abstract

A number of policies, strategies and tools are available for the management of invasive alien plants. This review considers these and their suitability in the light of developing theory and practical experience. Policies range from quarantine and eradication to containment and asset protection. While there is scope for modelling the potential spread and impact of invasive plants, these factors are invariably species-specific and a land manager is typically faced with the problem of dealing with several species simultaneously. Weed risk management systems have been developed to prioritize species management actions. These systems will be improved by further efforts to encompass uncertainty. Most management actions require long time-frames, and institutional commitment, as well as stakeholder involvement for successful outcomes.