Plant Assessment Matrix

The Colorado Invasive Plant Assessment table categorizes non-native plants that threaten the state’s agricultural productivity and native ecosystems. Categorization is based on an assessment of the impacts of the plant on agricultural and native systems. The inventory represents the best available knowledge of invasive plant experts in the state. The Noxious Weed program uses a  Plant Assessment Form and Weed List Criteria to evaluate plant species of interest.

Inventory Categories

Each plant on the list received an overall rating of High, Moderate or Limited based on evaluation using the criteria system. The meaning of these overall ratings is described below. In addition to the overall ratings, specific combinations of section scores that indicate significant potential for invading new ecosystems triggers an Alert designation so that land managers may watch for range expansions. Some plants were categorized as Evaluated But Not Listed because either we lack sufficient information to assign a rating or the available information indicates that the species does not have significant impacts at the present time.

High – These species have severe ecological impacts on physical processes, plant and animal communities, and vegetation structure. Their reproductive biology and other attributes are conducive to moderate to high rates of dispersal and establishment. Most are widely distributed ecologically.
Moderate – These species have substantial and apparent—but generally not severe—ecological impacts on physical processes, plant and animal communities, and vegetation structure. Their reproductive biology and other attributes are conducive to moderate to high rates of dispersal, though establishment is generally dependent upon ecological disturbance. Ecological amplitude and distribution may range from limited to widespread.
Limited – These species are invasive but their ecological impacts are minor on a statewide level or there is not enough information to justify a higher score. Their reproductive biology and other attributes result in low to moderate rates of invasiveness. Ecological amplitude and distribution are generally limited, but these species may be locally persistent and problematic.

Plant Assessment Matrix
(Complete Matrix)

Matrix Summary

Scores:*	Regions:
A = Severe	NW = Northwest
B = Moderate	SW = Southwest
C = Limited	FR= Front Range
D = None	D = Denver
U = Unknown	SC= South Central
	NW = Northeast
*For Use With Complete Matrix	SE= Southeast
	NP = Not Present in State
	U = Unknown