The U.S. Forest Service is distributing free copies of a new guide, titled “A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests,” that gives homeowners, gardeners, land managers and others information on controlling and removing invasive plants in the South.

“The guide provides the latest information on how to create and carry out prevention programs, implement management practices, and rehabilitate and restore land,” said Jim Miller, an emeritus Southern Research Station research ecologist based in Auburn, Ala., and lead author of the book. “The guide serves as a staple for foresters, natural resource managers and others who want to remove invasive plants that have become a serious problem in the 13 southern states.”  

Invasive plants often harm forests and other natural areas by pushing out native plants, which degrades habitat and adversely affects wildlife. Exotic plants often reduce forest productivity, native plant and animal diversity, and water quality and quantity.

Get free copies of “A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests” by sending your name and complete mailing address, along with book title, author and publication number GTR-SRS-131 to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.257.4830.