Bioenergy crops are being developed globally to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, often on marginal lands with minimal inputs. A key concern is the potential introduction of invasive species. This commentary argues that invasion risk can most effectively be prevented through a life-cycle approach that applies scientific and policy tools at each stage—from crop selection to field production, feedstock transport, storage, and decommissioning—avoiding the "kudzu effect." The paper provides a framework to guide regulatory agencies in the selection and permitting of biofuel feedstocks.