Mack Waggaman Mount Washington, MA

Invasive Species Vector Assessment, Japanese Stilt Grass

Invasive species pose significant threat to natural communities in the northeast and roadsides are a major vector for invasive species throughout the region. BSC consulted with a resident of Mount Washington, Massachusetts to conduct a case study to assess the relationship between a quickly advancing invasive species, Japanese stilt grass (Microstegium vimineum), roadside drainages, increased precipitation events and existing roadside maintenance practices to predict the future spread of this species to critical habitat areas in the town. BSC conducted field analysis of existing stilt grass infestations, drainage infrastructure and proximity to priority habitats to provide recommendations on invasive species management and engineering solutions to curb future spread of this species.

BSC and the client hope that by confirming the correlation between the spread of invasive species like Japanese stilt grass with roadside drainages that this report can serve as a template for other towns to consider how existing infrastructure and roadside maintenance activities can help slow the spread of invasive species into critical habitat areas in the state and the Northeastern region.

Link to BSC’s Report for Invasive Species Vector Assessment, dated January 2025.