Abstract
Eradication programs for alien invasive species in Japan have been predominantly conducted by regional volunteers.In recent years, following the introduction of the Invasive Alien Species Act, national and regional governments have led eradication programs for alien invasive species in some regions. Eradication activities led by volunteers sometimes exterminate large numbers of individuals, although the number of participants during a program can be highly variable. In contrast, eradication activities run by government-employed workers can achieve stable and predictable eradication targets but often depend on sufficient funding. In this report, we quantified the efficiency of eradication activities led by volunteers or government-employed workers aimed at eradicating Rudbeckia laciniata from national parks in Japan. Activities led by volunteers eradicated 1,090 stems/event on average, but the efficiency was highly variable. The maximum removal was 7,500 stems at an event in Hakone National Park. On the other hand, activities led by government-employed workers achieved stable eradication efficiencies (1,650 stems/event at the maximum, with an average of 637 stems/event in Hakone). To achieve efficient and certain eradication, collaborations between government and volunteers are essential.
