Peter Palmiotto, PhD Department of Environmental Studies Wild
Chervil, Anthriscus sylvestris, is an herbaceous, invasive
exotic plant currently experiencing a population explosion
within Vermon. In order to establish baseline data on the
current distribution and ecological characteristics of wild
chervil in Vermont, I conducted a roadside survey of a selection
of major roads, mapping wild chervil throughout the state. In
addition to the roadside survey, I studied chervil’s habitat
requirements in Randolph, the town where it first was noted as
an invasive plant in Vermont. The results of this study
indicated that although not as successful in shaded as compared
to more open areas, exhibiting reduced height and seed
production, chervil’s ability to become established in interior
forests increases its threat to native communities. Because wild
chervil is most often observed in roadsides and old fields, land
managers tend to downplay its influence on native plant
communities. It is clear from the results of my st