The Invasive Plant Species Management Program (IPSMP) provides resources for Loudoun landowners to manage difficult invasive plants on their property. Application information can be found here. To Register for the online informational session on 9/15, click here

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What is an Invasive Plant?

Invasive plants are "species intentionally or accidentally introduced by human activity into a region in which they did not evolve and cause harm to natural resources, economic activity or humans." (DCR, Available here)

Why are Invasive Plants a problem?

• Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species, and for 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species, invasive plants are the main cause of their decline.
• Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space.
• Overall plant diversity can be decreased
• Establishment and spread of invasive species can degrade wildlife habitat
• Results in poor quality agriculture lands
• Degraded water quality
• Increased soil erosion
• Decreased recreation opportunities

(U.S Forest Service, Available here)

Who is eligible for IPSMP?

All landowners owning parcels within Loudoun County may apply. Non-eligible projects include: 

• Projects on county, state and federally owned lands. 

• Sites currently under development or that have active development plans submitted to the County. 

• Projects that are required to remove invasive plants as a direct result of needing to meet local, state, or federal permitting requirements. 

• Payment of fines or completion of regulatory actions stemming from enforcement of the County Zoning Ordinance, Codified Ordinance, Proffers and/or the forthcoming bamboo ordinance. 
• Projects within environmentally sensitive areas where the control practice(s) required to effectively treat an invasive plant concern will pose an unacceptable environmental risk.  

How does the program work?

Applicants submit application packages during the submission window. After review, awarded projects may begin invasive removal & revegetation work. The Program Administrator will check in with projects throughout the treatment. As invoices are received, the applicant will send them to the Program Administrator for reimbursement. After the initial control work and revegetation is complete, the project enters a 3-year maintenance period to ensure the native plants are here to stay.

How does the reimbursement work?

Landowners will submit proof of payment for work completed and will be reimbursed after confirmation.

How do I apply?

The application information can be found here. The tentative submission windows for the first 5 cycles are:

• September 15th-26th, 2025
• November 15th-27th, 2025
• January 15th-28th, 2026
• March 15th-26th, 2026
• May 15th-28th, 2026

What do I need to apply?

When submitting your application package, you will need a few important documents.

• Cost estimate from a contractor for all work associated with your project
• Completed Project Overview Form
• Completed Application Form
• Maps detailing location of invasives.

All documents can be found here when the application window is open.

Mapping software can be found here.

How do I find a good contractor? 

Finding a reliable and experienced contractor is critical to the success of your project. It is up to you which contractor you choose, but it is heavily encouraged to speak with your contractor and ensure they have the necessary qualifications and experience to do your work. For any projects requiring herbicide application, ensure your contractor is licensed to apply pesticides.