English ivy added to list of plants that are illegal to buy or sell in Washington

Washington State's government has prohibited the sale and distribution of English ivy and 18 other invasive plant species, aiming to protect native ecosystems from their harmful effects. This decision follows the addition of these species to the Washington State Department of Agriculture's noxious weed quarantine list, making it illegal to engage in their commerce. Feedback during the public comment period showed overwhelming support for this measure, particularly regarding English ivy's damaging impact on trees and native plants. Residents must now destroy or properly dispose of any existing plants on the list to prevent their spread. Susan Hutton, executive director of the Whatcom Million Trees Project, highlighted the community's desire to safeguard local trees from this invasive species.

The Department of Agriculture initiated this process after multiple public petitions and concluded with a final proposal on July 9. Other suggested invasive plants were not included due to various limitations, but the community remains engaged in the effort to protect native flora. This legislative action represents a significant step toward ecological preservation in Washington State.