Managing invasive plants is a major concern in Acadia National Park. On Mount Desert Island (MDI), the mosaic of park lands and neighboring communities creates both obstacles and opportunities for addressing this issue collaboratively.

Backyard Stewards invites MDI residents to take action in their own yards and communities to support local biodiversity. This project focuses on removing five key invasive species from their yards—Japanese barberry, Morrow’s honeysuckle, burning bush, Asiatic bittersweet, and glossy buckthorn—that were introduced as landscape plants and are now threatening MDI and Acadia’s forests and wetlands. Participants will also learn about recommended native replacement species and share their efforts with the park to guide future conservation strategies.

Part of the broader Wild Acadia initiative, Backyard Stewards integrates community action into the park’s climate change adaptation efforts, combining science, stewardship, and collaboration to protect Acadia’s unique natural and cultural resources.

Join us as we explore the invasive plants of Mount Desert Island and learn what you can do today to protect biodiversity in your community!