Ecological Threats
Each natural community faces ecological threats that could change its defining features, leading to its decline.
Non-Native Invasive Plants
Because of its location on riverbanks, this community is susceptible to infiltration by non-native invasive plants that hitch a ride on the river from locations upstream. In Harpers Ferry, invaders include these:
- garlic mustard* (low plant)
- ground-ivy* (low plant)
- Japanese honeysuckle* (vine)
- Japanese hop* (vine)
- Japanese stiltgrass* (low plant)
Diseases, Pests, and Other Threats
Learn more about some of the ecological threats to the natural communities of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
See Making a Difference to learn about some of the ways park staff are addressing these threats—and ways you can help, too.