Land restoration expert encourages property owners to identify and address invasive species before long-term damage occurs
WEST PLAINS, MO / ACCESS Newswire / July 7, 2026 / Invasive plant species are becoming an increasingly serious challenge for landowners across the Ozarks, according to Blake Osgood, owner of Ozgood Land Restoration. As species such as bush honeysuckle, sericea lespedeza, Bradford pear, and autumn olive continue to spread throughout the region, Osgood says many property owners remain unaware of the impact these plants can have on their land.
“Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to the long-term health of our landscapes,” said Osgood. “Many people don’t realize there’s a problem until large portions of their property have already been affected.”
The Ozarks are known for their rich biodiversity, native grasslands, forests, and productive pastureland. However, invasive plants can disrupt these ecosystems by crowding out native vegetation, reducing wildlife habitat, limiting forage production, and changing the natural balance of the land.
According to Osgood, the issue affects a wide range of landowners, from ranchers and farmers to recreational property owners and families who have recently purchased acreage.
“People often assume these plants are just part of the landscape because they’ve become so common,” Osgood said. “The reality is that many of them don’t belong here. Over time, they can completely change how a property functions.”
Among the most common invasive species Osgood encounters is bush honeysuckle, which forms dense thickets that block sunlight and prevent native plants from growing. Sericea lespedeza continues to challenge ranchers across the region by reducing the quality of grazing land and spreading rapidly through pastures. Bradford pear trees, once popular as ornamental landscaping trees, have become increasingly problematic as birds spread their seeds into fields and natural areas. Autumn olive, another invasive shrub, is known for its aggressive growth and ability to dominate large sections of land.
While these species continue to spread throughout the region, Osgood believes education is one of the most effective tools available to landowners.
“The earlier you identify an invasive species, the easier it is to manage,” he said. “What starts as a small issue can become a major restoration project if it’s ignored for too long.”
As a rancher who raises cattle, sheep, goats, and chickens, Osgood has seen firsthand how healthy land supports both agricultural productivity and wildlife habitat. His work focuses on restoring properties by removing invasive species and helping native ecosystems recover.
He notes that restoration goes beyond simply removing unwanted plants.
“The goal isn’t just to clear land,” Osgood said. “It’s about giving native plants an opportunity to return, improving habitat, and helping the land function the way it was meant to.”
Osgood encourages property owners to regularly walk their land, learn to identify common invasive species, and seek professional guidance when necessary. He believes proactive management can help preserve the character, productivity, and ecological health of the Ozarks for future generations.
“The Ozarks are one of the most beautiful regions in the country,” Osgood said. “We all have a role in protecting that. Healthy land benefits livestock, wildlife, and the people who call this region home.”
About Blake Osgood
Blake Osgood is the owner of Ozgood Land Restoration and a rancher based in West Plains, Missouri. Through his work in land restoration and invasive species management, he helps property owners reclaim and restore land across the Ozarks while promoting responsible stewardship and long-term ecosystem health.
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SOURCE: Blake Osgood
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