Agnes Scott College
IL-67: Innovation C

The Agnes Scott Invasive Plant Species Mapping Project is unique for an institution of our size and resources. As part of the college’s comprehensive 2020-2025 Tree Care Plan, invasive species removal has been an on-going and long-term goal to remove and replace with native and non-invasive species. The intent is to support ecosystem services, wildlife habitat, soil regeneration, and climate resilience through flood mitigation. Over the years, the Center for Sustainability has supported invasive species removal in the informal or natural sections of campus through hosting consistent volunteer opportunities, fostering partnerships with local organizations to assist with impact, and when funding is available, natural management through sheep and goats.

In Summer 2024, the Center for Sustainability hosted an undergraduate intern to map the invasive species throughout the formal spaces on campus. This data collection will be the first time the college has a baseline understanding of how many invasive species are in our formal landscapes and rental properties. With this data, we will have the opportunity to layer datasets of floodplains, extreme heat, and wildlife corridors to prioritize removal and replacement. This project is a collaborative effort between the Center for Sustainability, Environmental & Sustainability Studies Co-Directors, the Office of Facilities, the joint Climate Resilience Plan Task Force and Flooding & Greenspace Subcommittee, the Agnes Scott Arborist, and the Agnes Scott Arboretum Advisory Committee.