The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) is pleased to share progress from its recently awarded SLELO-PRISM Special Project focused on invasive species detection and management along TILT’s Signature Preserve trail systems. This project represents a proactive investment in protecting some of the region’s most ecologically significant and frequently visited conservation lands.

Through this initiative, nearly 20 miles of public trails across multiple TILT Preserves were systematically surveyed for invasive species, with a primary focus on problematic invasive plants. Staff conducted on-the-ground assessments, documenting infestations at each site and recording observations using iMapInvasives. Collecting and reporting data in this shared regional database ensures that invasive species occurrences are tracked consistently, are accessible to partners, and incorporated into broader landscape-scale management efforts.

Following data collection, results were carefully reviewed and prioritized. Each detection was evaluated based on ecological risk, feasibility of control, and proximity to high-quality natural communities. From this analysis, site-specific management recommendations were developed, allowing the Land Trust to prioritize the most serious and time-sensitive infestations while making efficient use of limited management resources. This targeted approach supports early intervention, when invasive populations are still manageable and before they can spread further along trail corridors.

This spring, TILT will transition from assessment to action. Physical/mechanical and chemical treatments will be implemented to address the highest-priority infestations identified during the surveys, following best management practices and utilizing licensed applicators where appropriate. At compatible sites, restoration activities such as reseeding or planting native vegetation will occur following treatment to stabilize soils, improve habitat quality, and reduce the likelihood of reinfestation.

Post-treatment monitoring will continue in the coming months and years to evaluate treatment effectiveness, detect any regrowth, and guide future management decisions. This long-term commitment to monitoring ensures that management actions remain effective and that new infestations are addressed quickly.

The Land Trust is grateful to SLELO-PRISM, The Nature Conservancy, and NYS DEC for their support of this Special Project. Their investment strengthens regional partnerships, builds local stewardship capacity, and protects native habitats while keeping   TILT’s Preserves healthy and enjoyable for everyone.