If you have visited Fuller Forest Preserve lately, you may have noticed that the Red Oak Trail between both junctures with the Salamander Trail is temporarily closed. This partial closure comes as state biologists attempt to contain the physical spread of invasive Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) on the preserve. First discovered in Maine in 2020, Japanese stiltgrass displaces native plants, alters habitat, and raises wildfire risk. It’s a fast spreader that easily travels to new areas on boots, tires, and equipment. The plant is easiest to spot in July and August, set apart by its smooth, pointy, silver-striped leaves.
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is urging Mainers to act against Japanese stiltgrass because it poses a serious threat to the state’s forests, wetlands, and communities. Residents of Sagadahoc and York counties are asked to stay alert, especially in July and August when the plant is easiest to spot. You can look for:
- Smooth, pointed leaves (24 inches long) with a shiny silver stripe down the middle
- Shallow roots that make the plant easy to pull up
- Reddish stems later in the season
- Seeds forming in September/October that resemble crabgrass
If you suspect you’ve found Japanese stiltgrass, please:
- Document it. Take clear photos and email the location to invasives.mnap@maine.gov.
- Map it. Report sightings through the iMapInvasives website.
- Remove it safely. Pull plants before mid-September. Dispose of plants in a tied trash bag and never compost them.
- Prevent spread. Always clean boots, tires, and gear before leaving an infested area.
York Land Trust will be hosting a volunteer Stiltgrass Pull Workday on Tuesday, July 28 at 9:00am at Fuller Forest Preserve. Please register using this link, and thank you for helping us stop the spread of this invasive plant on our public lands.
Leaves alternate along the stem and have a silvery stripe down the middle.