Palmer — Alaska has taken a major step in the fight against invasive tree species, issuing a statewide quarantine on Mayday and Chokecherry trees effective September 1.

The order, signed by Division of Agriculture Director Bryan Scoresby, bans the importation, transport, and sale of Prunus padus (European Bird Cherry or Mayday tree) and Prunus virginiana (Canada Red or Chokecherry). Both species have spread rapidly across Alaska, forming dense monocultures that displace native plants and threaten fish and wildlife habitat.

“These invasive trees have been taking over riparian zones and forest understories throughout the state,” Scoresby said. “This quarantine will help stop the flow of new trees into Alaska, making ongoing control efforts more effective.”

The trees are now widespread in

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