Invasive vs Native Plant Species of Whitman County
Native Plants
Native plants are those that are naturally and historically found in an area. They’re important because they have evolved and adapted with other native plants and animals in the area for generations, creating intricate biological interactions that rely on each other to function.
For example, in Whitman County sagebrush is a native species that is highly adapted to harsh conditions, like low levels of precipitation. Other native species in our area have adapted to rely on sagebrush for cover and forage, such as chukar, partridge, and quail.
Invasive Plants
Invasive plants are non-native and often negatively alter the environment around them.
In Whitman County most invasive plants are noxious weeds. These species change the environment in Whitman County in ways like increasing the frequency of fire. Noxious weeds should be killed, if possible, to help reduce the spread of these species.
Identification is key to fighting invasive species before they change the environment and reduce the survivability of our native species. Here is a list put together by Washington State University to aid in identification of noxious weeds in Whitman County.
