From the scourge of kudzu, a gregarious climbing vine introduced in the south, to leafy spurge, a creeping perennial crawling across the western states, invasive weeds are characterized by their tendency to spread aggressively making removal a struggle, in the best case, and an impossibility in others. These species are a major concern, and efforts to control and prevent their introduction have been slow in coming.
Still, attempts to keep these noxious weeds in check are finally being taken seriously. A variety of venues, such as the National Invasive Weeds Awareness Week, are gaining some success in increasing national attention on this issue of tremendous concern.
Alaska has been given some time to see the problem develop to gigantic proportions in the Lower 48. As a combined result of unique climate conditions and fewer population and land use pressures, Alaska has been somewhat unreceptive to plant invasion. We are therefore poised to be ahead of the game.
However, the time for reflection is over as many problematic species have already become established and are actively expanding. So, the question is how do we make the best use of this foresight? Alaska has been fortunate so far to have groups in the state that are working toward preventing the myriad problems of widespread weed invasion. What can you do about it?
The time for thinking about gardens and spring planting is rapidly approaching. As you make selections for what to plant avoid using varieties that are known to have invasive tendencies such as orange hawkweed, butter and eggs, common tansy and oxeye daisy.
In fact, many of the species that are invasive and beginning to spread in Southcentral Alaska have been introduced and escaped from ornamental use. Learn about what plants are nonnative and may have invasive tendencies. Tell others about the problems of invasive weeds. Avoid using birdseed and “wildflower” mixes with unknown components. Finally, remove known invasives from your property and consider using native plants for landscaping, which are already adapted to local soil types and conditions.
This summer there will be several opportunities to participate in community weed pulls and invasive plant awareness events. Get involved and help protect our native plants and ecosystems. To find out more about invasive weeds contact the Homer Soil and Water Conservation District Office (www.homerswcd.org) or the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service. Check the Alaska Committee for Noxious and Invasive Plants Management Web site at http://www.cnipm.org.
Do your part, protect Alaska’s diverse flora and prevent the costly mistake of introducing problematic plants.
Caleb Slemmons is a new natural resource consultant and invasive plant coordinator for the Homer Soil and Water Conservation District. Originally from Ohio, he has a background in plant ecology and recently completed a master’s degree in environmental science. He is looking forward to helping local landowners manage their invasive plants.
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