Buckthorn, Kudzu Added to Exotic Weed Act

On July 10th, Governor Rod Blagojevich approved an amendment adding the creeping vine kudzu and six species of buckthorn to the Illinois Exotic Weed Act. The 15-year-old Act, which already included Japanese honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and purple loosestrife, makes it illegal to buy, sell, distribute, or plant these species in Illinois.

"I think it's a victory for the native plants in Illinois," said Carolyn Grosboll, director of the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. "It prevents these species from being sold where most people would go to purchase plants for their yards and landscaping. It's key to preventing them from getting into open areas."

Chicago-area conservationists especially applauded the inclusion of common and glossy buckthorn, two invasive shrub species that have spread rapidly across northern Illinois.

— Don Parker