Eradication of Invasive Species 'Spartina alterniflora' Begins in Jindo Mudflats

Yeongsan River Basin Environmental Office
Joins Forces with Related Organizations for Joint Eradication

The Yeongsan River Basin Environmental Office will hold a joint eradication event with related organizations to remove Spartina alterniflora, an invasive species, starting at 10:30 a.m. on June 18 in the mudflats and waterways of Namdong-ri, Imhoe-myeon, Jindo-gun, Jeollanam-do.

Distribution status of seaweed in Jindo area. Provided by Yeongsan River Basin Environmental Office.

According to the Environmental Office on June 17, Spartina alterniflora is a perennial grass designated as an invasive species by the Ministry of Environment in 2016. It rapidly covers mudflats, reducing the habitats of native plants and causing damage to the ecosystem.

The Environmental Office also plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with Jindo-gun, the Western Office of Dadohaehaesang National Park under the Korea National Park Service, and the National Institute of Ecology to cooperate on the removal, post-management, and monitoring of Spartina alterniflora in conjunction with this event.

Director Kim Youngwoo stated, "We will continue eradication efforts to restore biodiversity and ecosystem health," and added, "We ask for active participation from the local community as well."