Through the Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-ive Program, Pennsylvania residents who remove up to three invasive plants can receive native replacements at designated events in May.
“Invasive plants disrupt natural habitats and make it harder for wildlife to flourish,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “Last year’s program drew tremendous interest, and it is inspiring to see so many Pennsylvanians eager to plant native species. Replacing invasive trees and shrubs with native plants helps restore healthy landscapes and supports the birds, pollinators, and other wildlife that depend on them. With more than 2,000 native species in Pennsylvania, there are plenty of great options for yards and community spaces.”
This initiative aims to curb the spread of invasive species, which threaten Pennsylvania’s farms, forests, and natural ecosystems.
Events will take place across the state, with native trees and shrubs distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Preregistration for local events will open March 31.
“Invasive plants don’t stop at the edge of a backyard - they spread into farm fields and forests, pushing out native species and creating opportunities for pests like the spotted lanternfly,” said Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Pennsylvanians can be part of the solution by choosing native plants that support pollinators and healthier ecosystems. At the same time, the Shapiro Administration is investing in research, agricultural innovation, and initiatives like the Center for Plant Excellence to give farmers and communities the tools they need to stay ahead of invasive threats.”
In 2025, the Invasive Replace-ive Program distributed 1,313 plants across the state. Past participants say the program has helped them better understand invasive species and take action at home.
“I just learned that butterfly bush is invasive, so I nipped it right out. I only learned that through the program’s education,” said Leah Santos, 2025 Invasive Replace‑ive participant. “I’m really excited about the native plants. You don’t see them as often, and I probably wouldn’t have been able to find or afford them otherwise.”
Click Here for Program Details--
-- How to Participate in Invasive Replace-ive
-- Events And Locations
-- Problem Invasive Species
If you think you have an invasive species on your property but are unsure of its identification, please contact your local DCNR Service Forester and send one or more photos of the species.
Invasive species experts can review your photo(s) and respond with their thoughts.
March 26 Webinar
You are invited to learn more about the second annual PA Invasive Replace-ive Program by participating in a March 26 webinar at 1:00 p.m. on how you can replace invasive species with native trees and shrubs in landscape plantings.
The 2026 Pennsylvania Invasive Replace-ive Program is made possible through partnerships with DCNR, PA Department of Agriculture, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Program, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, and Pennsylvania Sea Grant.
Click Here for the DCNR - Agriculture announcement.
Visit Explore PA Trails and Get Outdoors PA for recreation areas near you.
Visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation’s Events webpage and DCNR’s Calendar of Events for activities happening near you.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit DCNR’s website. Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter.
Related Articles This Week:
-- DCNR: Since 2023, US Bureau Of Economic Analysis Data Shows PA Outdoor Recreation Economy Grew By 21%, Added 12,000 Jobs [PaEN]
-- Western PA Conservancy Awards $25,000 To Support 5 Western PA Canoe, Kayak Access Projects: Now Accepting Applications For Next Round Of Grants [PaEN]
-- South Mountain Partnership Now Accepting Pre-Applications For Community Impact Mini-Grant Program [PaEN]
-- Penn State Extension: April 11 In-Person Workshop In Beaver County On Managing Invasive Species [PaEN]
-- Penn State Extension: Upcoming Pennsylvania Forest Seminar Series
-- Help Wanted: PA Interfaith Power & Light Tree Program Manager
NewsClips:
-- TribLive: Proposed Trolley Line Trail Would Connect Irwin, North Huntingdon In Westmoreland
-- TribLive: Lower Burrell Walking Club Takes Steps To Boost Community Connections In Westmoreland
-- TribLive: Jeannette Parks To Receive Interactive Signs Encouraging Activity In Westmoreland
-- TribLive: Pittsburgh Faces Longer Allergy Seasons, Study Finds
-- Erie Times: ‘Extreme’ Temperatures Could End This Year’s Maple Season In Erie Area
-- Allegheny National Forest Spring Prescribed Fire Plan April 1 to May 15
-- Post-Gazette: Fast-Moving Brush Fire Challenges Firefighters As Pittsburgh Region Again Faces Strong Winds
-- Planet Philadelphia March 20 - Discovering Biological Diversity, 4:00 p.m.
[Posted: March 19, 2026] PA Environment Digest
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