Assessing the economic values of exotic invasive plants on areas of conservation significance in Queensland

Exotic invasive plants can threaten the integrity and biodiversity of a forest ecosystem by altering the composition and structure of native forest communities. Areas of high conservation significance are often impacted by exotic plant species as plant matter is transported from already affected habitat, often as a result of human activities. This study, a first in Queensland, assessed the economic value placed by the population on the importance of controlling exotic plants, such as Lantana and Singapore Daisy, on areas of high conservation significance. The outcome provides valuable input to informed decision making with respect to appropriate control measures and priorities