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Invasive Plants

An invasive plant is a non-native plant species that is spreading on its own and causing environmental or economic harm. Invasive plants can outgrow, replace or otherwise destroy Florida’s native plants and associated wildlife, including endangered species. They can also alter natural processes such as fire and water flow.

Native vs. Exotic vs. Invasive Plants in Florida

A Florida native plant is a plant species that is presumed to have been in Florida before European contact. They provide food and shelter to Florida’s animals and stability to our shorelines.

An exotic plant is any plant that has been introduced to Florida, either purposefully or accidentally, from outside of the state. Not all exotic plants are problematic – including roses and a wide variety of agricultural plants, such as tomatoes and citrus trees.

An invasive plant is a plant that has been introduced to Florida, can reproduce and spread in the wild and is negatively impacting humans and the native habitat.

The most problematic invasive plants in Pinellas County are (in alphabetical order):

You can play a role in promoting healthy, natural plant communities by removing invasive plants from your property and using native or Florida-Friendly plants in your landscape. For more information on invasive plants in Pinellas County and what you can do to help manage or remove them, call (727) 464-7503.

To learn more about invasive plants, visit the U.S Department of Agriculture and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Invasive Plant Management Program

This program is a coordinated effort to target and control invasive vegetation and restore native plants and habitat on property maintained by Pinellas County Public Works. The program is designed to create a comprehensive plan to maintain public property in an efficient, economically responsible and environmentally conscious manner.

Lake Park Drive invasive plant removal site

Project Overview

Location

  • The intersection of 109th Avenue N. and Lake Park Drive

Goals

  • Remove invasive plants from Pinellas County property and replant with Florida natives
  • Create a roadmap to success for future projects

Benefits

  • Remove seed sources to reduce the spread of invasive plants
  • Protect vulnerable ecosystems
  • Restore habitat for native plants and wildlife
  • Beautify the area for local citizens
  • Increase efficiency of County operations
  • Exhibit responsible land stewardship

Project Timeline

  • Research and proposal: 2019
  • Pilot site selection: 2020
  • Remove invasives: December 2022
  • Plant natives: April 2024

Past Meetings

  • Virtual Project Information Meeting: Aug. 17, 2022
  • Stakeholder Site Visits: June 23 and June 28, 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were the native planting efforts delayed?

After initial challenges in securing a contractor for the restoration planting, we were able to finish the phase of planting native species on the site in April 2024. We are currently working with a contractor to maintain the native plants on the site and continuing to monitor the site for establishment of these species. In-house crews are monitoring and spot treating the site to prevent the re-establishment of invasive plants.

Why are you removing invasive vegetation?

Invasive plants are a nuisance that outgrow, replace and damage whole ecosystems. Once established, invasives can be extremely difficult to eradicate. This program is designed to create a comprehensive plan to maintain public property in an efficient, economically responsible and environmentally conscious manner.

Are you clearing the project site of all trees?

No, tree removal will be limited only to trees considered invasive by the Florida Invasive Species Council. Every effort will be made to protect native trees onsite.

How are you going to prevent invasives from spreading to the site in the future?

Replanting the area will help prevent invasive vegetation from reinfesting the site. In addition, Vegetation Management will add this location to their maintenance cycle. Technicians will regularly inspect for regrowth of invasive vegetation and treat accordingly.

How do you plan on replacing the sight and sound barrier the vegetation provided?

Urban Forestry creates a planting plan for areas where vegetation removals occur. The planting plan includes all native plant species with larger trees placed to provide a barrier.

What about private improvements (fences, sprinkler lines) in or adjacent to the public right-of-way?

All planned improvements are within existing public right-of-way or County property. Every effort will be made to prevent damage to adjacent private property. Before the project begins, staff will conduct a walk-through with the contractor to inform them of sensitive areas.

Why are dead trees left onsite?

Dead or dying trees that are still standing are called snags. Snags are a vital part of the forest habitat and enhance diversity. They offer many ecosystem services, including food and shelter for various organisms. Want to improve wildlife habitat in your yard? Consider adding a snag by leaving a tree stump or log for wildlife use.

Contact Us

We value your input and invite you to participate in this important community project. If you have questions or comments about the project, please contact:

Alissa Berro
Public Works
4100 118th Ave., Clearwater, FL 33762
(727) 464-7767
amberro@pinellas.gov

Vegetation Management
4100 118th Ave., Clearwater, FL 33762
(727) 464-7503
mosquitocontrol@pinellas.gov