Here is a possible mitigation option suggested by technical experts for Mesophytic Cove Sites:
Encourage treatment of invasives prior to harvest, thereby reducing potential for spread
Participate in the discussion forum to share ideas and provide feedback about practical actions that companies can take to promote positive impacts on forest management, and reduce the risk of procuring wood from forests where important ecological values are threatened.
The forum is organized by each Regional Meeting with each Specified Risk Topic listed under each meeting:
-
Asheville (Appalachian Region)
-
Atlanta (Southeast/Mississippi Alluvial Valley Regions)
-
Portland (Pacific Coast/Rocky Mountain Regions)
It seems that non-native invasive plant species are especially troubling in this ecosystem due to its fertility. There are serious invaders of the herb layer (Mircostegium, Alliaria, etc..), the shrub and vine layer (Lonicera, Celastrus, etc.), and the canopy layer (Ailanthus). For some perspective, the Virginia Natural Heritage Program lists garlic mustard as the single biggest threat to Rich Cove Forests. My field experience indicates that both pre and post harvest treatment are essential to prevent degradation of this ecosystem by invasives following harvest.
Could a potential mitigation strategy include having companies pay into a fund that helps subsidize or support contractors to implement invasive treatment activities on-the-ground?