Sosnowski’s hogweed (Heraculum sosnowskyi manden) as an object of ecological and legal regulation: a comprehensive analysis of invasion, control methods and the evolution of the legislative framework on the example of the Perm Region

Abstract

Sosnowsky’s hogweed (Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden) is a striking example of the transformation of an introduced species into a large-scale environmental and social threat requiring a comprehensive legal response. The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the problem, based on a synthesis of data on the biological and ecological characteristics of the plant, agricultural control practices, and a detailed study of the regulatory framework. Special emphasis is placed on the evolution of legislative regulation of invasive species control in the Russian Federation – from fragmented regional initiatives to the formation of a unified federal legal
framework. The history of the species’ introduction, the mechanisms of its invasive success, and the multifaceted damage, including reduced biodiversity, economic losses, and a direct threat to public health, are examined in detail. Control methods (mechanical, agrotechnical, chemical) are described, with an assessment of their effectiveness, resource intensity, and environmental
risks. The central focus of the study is an analysis of legislative measures: tracing the dynamics from a legal vacuum, through active regional rulemaking (using the examples of Moscow, Leningrad, Tver, Kaluga Oblasts and Perm Krai), to systemic changes at the federal level initiated by Federal Law No. 294-FZ of July 31, 2025. An overview of sanctions established in various constituent entities of the Russian Federation and administrative procedures is provided. Using the example of Perm Krai, the model of escalation of management measures is analyzed in detail – from the introduction of a “High Alert” regime and the establishment of administrative liability to the extension of the legislation’s scope to all lands of municipalities and the organization of planned interdepartmental work. It is concluded that effective suppression of invasion is possible only if scientifically based control methods are integrated into the strict framework of continuously improving legislation, which establishes clear obligations for all categories of land users and
ensures their inevitable oversight and accountability.