Invasive Alien Species Management Sites

LatViaNature is carrying out the most extensive scientific study to date in Latvia on the management of invasive alien species. The study evaluates methods for controlling five invasive alien species across 12 pilot sites throughout Latvia, covering a total area of almost 110 hectares.

For each of the five invasive alien species – Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera), rugosa rose (Rosa rugosa), boxelder maple (Acer negundo) and dwarf serviceberry (Amelanchier spicata (Lam.) K. Koch) scientists have selected several control methods. A detailed annual work plan has been developed for each pilot site, based on scientific publications and taking into account the experience of the Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia and relevant experience from other countries.

Control measures targeting invasive alien species are being implemented at the pilot sites between 2023 and 2026. Monitoring is being carried out alongside these activities to assess the effectiveness of eradication methods and provide a scientific basis for evaluating their results.

The aim is to test the effectiveness of control methods that are new to Latvia or have been used only to a limited extent. Based on the findings, scientists and experts will develop guidelines in 2027 on how to manage these invasive alien species in other parts of Latvia – at national level.

All five invasive alien species targeted for control at the pilot sites are included in The list of 24 invasive alien species compiled as part of the LatViaNature project. Scientific evidence has demonstrated that these species have a negative impact on biodiversity in Latvia, and they have been identified as candidates for inclusion in the national list of invasive species established by the Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia.

All pilot sites serve as demonstration sites for scientists, experts, practitioners and other interested parties.