Many of the plants we call weeds are native plants that evolved in other parts of the world, along with their natural complement of insect predators, plant pathogens, fungi and competition from other plants. Removed from their natural environment, these species have thrived and outcompeted native plants. Land managers and private landowners are concerned about the spread of weeds for many reasons. Weeds take over important habitat areas for wildlife, devastating shelter and forage and reducing the diversity and quantity of native plants. When weeds do not hold and protect the soil the way native plants do, sediment in streams increases, which can hurt fish populations and water quality.
Weeds are often less resistant to wildfire than are native plants.
Weeds also reduce land values, causing damaging economic impacts to local communities. Refrain from picking wildflowers or plants. Many wildflowers are actually invasive weeds. Picking and transporting them can spread their seeds to new areas. Tell your friends and family about this problem.