A reminder to confirm ID of new sightings

A few weeks ago a newspaper in WV reported that giant hogweed had been found in the northern panhandle of WV.  However, upon further investigation, it was determined that the plant in question was in fact white-flowered leafcup, which has similar vegetation but is not related.    

This just serves as a good reminder to us all (myself included!) to confirm new sightings with a professional ID before doing anything else.

And hooray!  We don’t (yet) have giant hogweed in WV!

 

Whitney Bailey Forest Ecologist Forest Service Monongahela National Forest p: 304-636-1800 x280 whitneybailey@fs.fed.us 200 Sycamore St. Elkins, WV 26241 www.fs.fed.us Caring for the land and serving people