Exotic Species Management
  
  
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Exotic Invasive Species Management
Florida is a magnet for many exotic invasive species. Due to the warm, tropical climate, many foreign species thrive here. Most exotic invasive species have proved to be impossible to eradicate and are extremely costly to treat. These exotic invasive displace native species, effecting both ecosystem structure and function (i.e. Melaleuca introduced into swamps in south Florida became monoculture stands that eliminated other native plant species and changed the hydrology of the area, Laroche 1999).
Seminole County Leisure Services properties have at least 32 exotic plant species and at least 5 (excluding feral cats and dogs). All of the exotic plant species require treatment and maintenance control (except where indicated above). Any newly discovered should be treated immediately and monitored for any recurrence. |