Pennsylvania’s forestry industry is experiencing issues due to invasive species including glossy buckthorns and Japanese knotweed, according to a news release from Rep. R. Lee James, R-64th.

According to Penn State Extension, glossy buckthorns predominantly impact lumber and are primarily spread by birds that distribute their fruit. Glossy buckthorn is considered to be persistent, and constant surveillance is required to prevent them from reinvading areas where they have been removed.

Japanese knotweed grows around streams, wetlands, stream corridors, forest edges and drainage ditches. The species spreads underground through their roots. While some populations can reproduce through seeds, colonies of knotweed are formed through horizontal roots called rhizomes. Despite being susceptible to splitting when disturbed, Penn State Extension notes the plant can form a clone and grow back.

The 64th state House district covers Venango and part of Butler County.