Raven Sterling: “Battle Plans Against Invasive Plants”
On June 17, we welcome Raven Sterling, an invasive plant specialist and environmental advocate, for a presentation on how invasive plants threaten native biodiversity—and how you can fight back. Invasive plants often arrive without the predators and controls that kept them in check in their native ranges, allowing them to quickly outcompete native species. They are one of the leading drivers of biodiversity loss across the Southeast.
Raven will share techniques for removing the worst offenders while avoiding harm to the environment—a process that can be tricky but is far from impossible with the right battle plan. She’ll cover many of the common invasive species in our region, highlight successes in mechanical management, and provide insight into how invasive plants and organisms spread. You’ll leave with practical strategies for remediation and ideas for how to manage invasives and support biodiversity on your land and beyond.
BIO:
Raven Sterling
Invasive Plant Specialist and Environmental Advocate
Raven Sterling’s love for trees and native plants has shaped her life’s mission. After moving from Barnardsville to Asheville, NC, she was shocked by the extent of English Ivy’s grip on local trees and quickly became a fierce advocate for their protection. Her work now focuses on raising awareness, sharing effective strategies for invasive plant control, and helping homeowners reclaim their landscapes from invaders like Kudzu, Japanese Knotweed, Porcelainberry, and more.
Raven believes that safeguarding native plants and the biodiversity they support starts at home. Through her grassroots efforts, she’s making a difference one yard, one tree, and one conversation at a time.
For information on how to attend this meeting, please visit the Meeting Event Page.
