Nonnative species, also known as exotics, are flora and fauna
that intrude on an ecosystem, upsetting the delicate balance of
life there. Once established, they have a tendency to dominate
and destroy the native system that was originally in place. Some
of the primary exotic species found at Antietam are Tree-of-
Heaven, Multi-flora Rose and Japanese Honeysuckle. These species
are presently threatening agricultural lands, reforestation
areas and woodlots. Exotics compete for soil nutrients and
habitat, disrupt view sheds and invade the habitat of rare and
threatened native species. An effective approach that managers
use is called Integrated Pest Management, or simply IPM. IPM
utilizes biological, mechanical, cultural or chemical processes,
either individually or in conjunction with one another, to
control or eradicate plant and animal pests. Did You Know?
Alexander Gardner's photographs of Antietam were the first ever
images to show dead soldiers on the field of battle. A New York
Times article about the phot