Invasives species threaten the James River Park
Love the park? Here's your chance to help.Protecting the park
Founded in 2015, the JRPS Invasive Plant Task Force is a volunteer effort to foster a thriving park ecosystem through invasive plant species management, restoration of native plant communities, public awareness and citizen involvement.
The task force (or “IPTF”) partners with JRPS invasive management staff and this website reflects our combined, collaborative efforts.
What is an invasive species?
All invasive species have been introduced but not all introduced species are invasive.
Here’s How You Can Help
Volunteering just takes a can-do attitude and willingness to get your hands dirty. We’ll provide the training and tools.
See below for the next two work events, or learn more about volunteering.
Do not remove plants from JRPS on your own.
Please do not undertake unauthorized invasive removal in the park system on your own. The Task Force works strategically in targeted places according to evidence-based methods specific to the invasive species, seasonal timing, and other factors, prioritizing key goals and protecting sensitive resources.
We’re making progress
Look closely – the native habitat will make a comeback if we give it help.
40+ Virginia-listed invasive plant species in the park, most under management
13,907 trees freed since 2021
652 trees freed at Huguenot Flatwater
6,900+ volunteer hours since 2021
Huguenot Flatwater before and after control of invasive wintercreeper (Euonymus fortunei). Removing infestations of invasive vines that damage tree canopy is a priority.
What’s happening with the Task Force
Manchester: Climbing Uphill with Invasive Management
Eleven years ago when we formed the Invasive Plant Task Force, our vision for the park system included an invasive management program that didn't completely rely on volunteers and became part of the park system's essential operations. Last year marked a milestone in...
Tracking Invasive Plants (Legislation!) in the General Assembly
Anyone with a passing familiarity with Virginia's General Assembly knows that it's a challenge to keep up with a legislative session that is considered "long" at 60 days (and "short" at 45 days) with a thousands bills typically living out their lives in those few...
Chapel Island Showcased in EcoFest 2025
On September 13th, the James River Association celebrated its second annual EcoFest, "a day dedicated to celebrating and preserving our vibrant local environment" at JRA's James A. Buzzard Education Center on the bank of Great Shiplock Park. The day included a tour...