As a nature enthusiast, I learned about invasive plants through my love of bird watching. It ultimately led me to my love of native plants. The more I learned, the more crystal clear the issue of noxious weeds became: they are taking over and suffocating our natural spaces, particularly in areas already stressed by urban development. Why are these plants (which we know ultimately strip down native areas, create monocultures, and don't positiviely contribute to the eco-system we all so desperately need) left to be sold legally? Why is English Ivy, for example, still allowed to be sold in tray after tray at stores? I spend dozens of hours every year helping the state of VA eradicate English ivy and other noxious weeds such as porcelainberry, oriental bittersweet, and garlic mustard. It would be great to know these and others would simply not be available for sale.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreations’ Natural Heritage Division has already identified an appropriate list of noxious weeds. Respect the professionals who defined this list and help push change one county at a time, starting with Arlington (if the entire state is unable to support such legislation). Change isn't always easy but having the governmental support to make this law will be a great way to help create momentum to move our state as a whole to do the right thing in requiring the landscape and nursery industry to remove these plants from their lists. I hope to see Arlington be on the right side of history.