Scotch broom is a threat to timber regeneration and forest habitat structure, functions, and biodiversity. Scotch broom outcompetes native plant species, altering water availability, soil nutrients, and introducing allelopathic chemicals. It is unpalatable and slightly toxic to grazers, replaces plants required by many native pollinators, and reduces nesting habitat for birds.

Scotch broom is highly flammable and a serious fire hazard. Just as it’s critical to put fires out when they’re small, it’s crucial we prevent a highly flammable and invasive species like Scotch broom from spreading throughout Washington State.

Climate change and melting glaciers increase sediment flux in rivers; increasing bank erosion and requiring road repair. Materials and equipment used for bank revetments often introduce Scotch broom seeds, which establish and spread on river gravel bars and floodplains. Scotch broom prevents the establishment of early- and late-successional trees that contribute to carbon sequestration and large wood and structure to channels and root stability along banks.