We need your help to ban Callery pear and eleven other invasive species (Norway maple, sweet autumn clematis, burning bush, moneywort, Chinese maiden grass, wild parsnip, lesser celandine, glossy buckthorn [including Fine Line buckthorn], spreading hedge parsley, Japanese hedge parsley, and European highbush cranberry) from sale in Indiana. 

A prime example of the Dirty Dozen is Callery pear. Originally introduced as an ornamental tree and sometimes known by its cultivar names like Bradford pear, Cleveland Select, Chanticleer, and many others, it has become an invasive species that poses a serious threat to our local ecosystems. Its rapid growth and ability to spread easily have led to its domination in many Indiana natural areas, displacing native plants and threatening our native oak and hickory forests. This invasive species significantly reduces the state’s biodiversity through compromising the habitat and food sources for native wildlife, insects, and birds.

Callery pear's invasive characteristics also have a detrimental impact on urban and suburban areas. Its branches are weak and susceptible to breakage, especially during storms, leading to potential safety hazards. The cost of maintaining and managing this invasive species in urban areas is a significant burden on local governments and communities.

Fortunately, the few Indiana growers of invasive species like Callery pear can easily switch to growing native alternatives like serviceberry, pagoda dogwood, buckeye, and others with no loss of income.

Callery pear is one of a dozen invasive species in a rule amendment that would allow the DNR to ban it from sale – but it will take public support to keep moving this rule forward. Please sign this petition to let Governor Holcomb know that it is time to ban Callery pear and the other invasive plant species for sale in Indiana.