Guiding principles for sustainable management of invasive woody species in Protected Areas

This informative brochure aims at informing and sensitising readers on the issue of invasive alien species and on the best practices to be implemented for their sustainable control. After an introduction devoted to define the functions of natural areas, we briefly describe the phenomenon of biological invasions of alien plant species, their negative impact in natural areas, and some guidelines on possible ways of managing the problem. After mentioning the most widespread species in our territories, with particular reference to woody species and to tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), one of the most threatening and harmful at national and local level, guiding principles regarding the possible control techniques are provided, which can at the same time be effective and suitable for the use in natural areas.