WOODY
INVASIVE SPECIES


Across the state, woody invasive species have contributed to reduced water access and biomass production for grazers, damaged irrigation infrastructure, increased soil erosion, exacerbated river and stream channelization, and negatively impacted recreation. Each of these impacts result in reduced economic benefit and opportunity for Montana.

 In Montana, management of invasive species (particularly in riparian areas) is a shared responsibility among land and water managers, owners, and users. With such a critical resource at stake, it is a common priority for stakeholders across watersheds.

Help Montana by learning how to identify and report woody invasive species.

Woody Invasives ID Trifold 

 

Help Montana by learning how to identify and report woody invasive species.

Report on iNaturalist

Contact your local extension agent

Contact your local weed district

 

Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) 

A large shrub or small tree (6-20ft tall) that has deciduous leaves which remain green long into the fall compared to native species. It can develop into dense monocultures, reduce habitat, and outcompete native species. 

Common Buckthorn IPM GuidedecorativeCommon buckthorn with berries, courtesy of Bugwood

Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) 

A tall shrub or small tree (up to 26ft tall) wth branches that are orange-brown in color with white-mealy hairs. Readily invades riparian habitat, outcompeting native species and alters the ecosystem. 

Russian Olive IPM GuideRussian Olive courtesy of Bugwood

Saltcedar (Tamarix chinensis, T. ramosissia)

Wispy shrubby growth form (3-17ft tall) that often occurs in riparian areas. Has short clusters of tiny pink flowers that cover the shrub during the growing season. Crowds out native species and chokes riparian corridors. 

Saltcedar IPM GuideSaltcedar courtesy of Bugwood