Non Natives Go Home

Non native plants are becoming the focus of new policy in Encinitas.  In a North County Times article, San Elijo Conservancy Executive Director Doug Gibson indicates that the Conservancy has spent close to $2 million in the past five years to remove invasive plants.  In California, the annual cost is estimated by the California Invasive Plant Council to be about $100 million.

The draft Encinitas policy lists 86 invasive plants that should be removed from City property and new developments, and 20 toxic plants that should be removed from City property and equestrian trails. 

Pampas grass, one of the most problematic invasive plants, clogs this storm water channel along the Coast Highway several times a year, and tractors and trucks can be seen diligently removing the thickets.

We are entering an era wherein a better full cost accounting is being conducted of the implications of our policies, regulations, and lifestyle choices.  Doing so brings new information to light, and in most cases somebody has an interest in doing things the 'old way,' and thus there is resistance to changes that may be beneficial overall. Other examples of pending changes include AB 32 and GHG emission reduction targets, and either eliminating, taxing, or otherwise incentivising a reduction in plastic bags being provided at retail stores. Plastic bag litter is expensive for municipalities to remove, causes equipment maintenance problems, and is harmful to wildlife. 

So, non natives go home -- we are 'accounting' on you!