In the territory of the Viseu Dão Lafões Intermunicipal Community (CIM VDL) in the Central region of Portugal, there are important riparian galleries resulting from the various water lines that abound in this region. In these areas, the autochthonous vegetation is still dominant and there are several Iberian endemism and are therefore classified as habitats of importance for conservation in the Natura Network (Habitat 91E0*). Despite the importance of these ecosystems, there is no plan for the conservation of their biodiversity and no prospect of creating a protected area. In addition, local human communities that live mainly in rural areas have a deep cultural connection to this ecosystem. However, these riparian ecosystems are now suffering various impacts by invasive species that need to be mitigated. The general objective of this project is to know the socio-cultural perceptions of the inhabitants in this rural area about the invasive species. The theoretical approach of this study is based on the existing relations between culture and nature. The following data collection techniques were employed: bibliographic and documentary review, semi-structured interviews and informal conversations. It was found that acacias (Acacia sp.) and, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.) are the species pointed out that show a greater concern from the interviewees. In this communication, the main reasons for this indication will be presented, as well as their intrinsic fears and fears beyond the economic impacts they cause.