Potomac Highlands CWPMA

The mission of Potomac Highlands CWPMA is the prevention and management of invasive species in the headwaters region of the South Branch of the Potomac River in West Virginia and Virginia.

We are dedicated to decreasing the impacts of invasive species on native plant and animal communities, public and private forests, private and agricultural lands, and local economies through public awareness. The CWPMA serves Grant, Hardy, and Pendleton Counties in West Virginia and Highland County in Virginia. This landscape contains a diverse mix of pine/heath barrens, rocky summits, cliffs and balds, and subalpine coniferous forests. Over 120 rare animals, plants and natural communities have been identified in this area, making it one of the richest concentrations of biological diversity in the east.

The economy of these counties relies heavily on forest products, agriculture, and natural resource-based tourism; and is well-known for its natural resources, recreational resources, and beauty. Invasive plants are a serious threat to all of these.

Our Goals:

• Decrease the impacts of invasive species on native plant and animal communities, public and private forests, aquatic resources, agricultural lands and local economics using Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
• Develop and support partnerships among a diverse group of private land owners, concerned citizens, agencies, non-profit organizations, industries, educational facilities, and local governments.
• Increase public awareness of the invasive species problem through public workshops, field tours, community meetings, demonstration areas, and by sharing resources

Why Should I Care?

Non-native invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the natural ecosystems of Central Appalachia, and their numbers are increasing! Approximately 28% of the plants in West Virginia aren’t native, having been introduced from other states or countries.

Sometimes invasive plants are used for landscaping or wildlife habitat without us realizing the problems they may cause when they escape into natural areas. Without natural predators or controls, non-native invasive plants disperse widely across the landscape. Invasive plants can cause massive amounts of economic damage to agriculture.

A diverse, healthy ecosystem of native plants is important for clean air and water, soil stability, and food and shelter for wildlife. Please join us in our efforts as effective management requires cooperation among landowners, agencies, and everyone with a concerned interest.