Background Info
native to East Asia (Japan, Korea)introduced to the U.S as an ornamental plant, for erosion control, and for wildlife forage and cover

Reasons for Status
used for urinary disorders, headache, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancersometimes applied to the skin for inflammation and itching, and to kill germs

Characteristics
a nonnative, trailing or twining, perennial lianastems are often 0.4 to 2 inches in diametercan grow to 18 feet or more in length

Solutions for Removal
mow or weed whack the vines as close to the ground as possibleallow them to re-sprout, then spray the sprouts with a 5 percent solution of glyphosate

Background Info
native to Californian coastal marine habitatsaquatic member of the weasel familyspends most of its time in waterkeystond species but also endangered

Reasons for Status
critical to maintaining balance of nearshore ecosystems, such as kelp forests, embayments, and estuarieswithout them, sea urchins can overpopulate sea floor and devour kelp forests that provide cover and food for many other marine animals

Characteristics
have very dense brown fur and strong, flat tail that acts as a rudderhave flipper-like hind feet and small front feet with retractable claws for grooming and holding onto food

Solutions for Protection
use nontoxic household cleaning productsdon't litter or dump materials into storm drainsreduce, reuse, and recycle whenever you candispose of hazardous wastes properlyvolunteer to help or create a beach clean up