Hey All!
In one of the previous posts, we outlined some of the invasive plant species that we're managing out at Coldwater. Some invasives take little time to thrive, outcompeting native species in the area, making any restorative project a daunting task and potentially costing you a lot of time, effort and money. Although many of you have already experienced the threats that invasives pose, in this week's post, we'd like to offer some alternatives to help slow the spread of these invasive plant species.
1. Brush off your gear
A boot brush can be a handy tool to have when traveling in grassy plains or areas that don't have an existing trail system. Before you leave, using a boot brush on your shoe sole will clean off any unwanted seeds and leave them in the same area from where it came. It would also benefit to check any other outerwear you have on.
2. Properly dispose of invasive species
So you were able to remove invasives from your property, but did you follow proper compliance with disposal? In Minnesota, it is illegal to transport buckthorn, so it is useful to research and arrange proper disposal options, such as contacting your county or municipal waste disposal center.
3. Be inquisitive, learn about the invasive species
You may have encounter plant species in your front yard without really knowing what it is, only to be informed later that you've been harboring an invasive plant! With time, many invasives tend to overtake a landscape, making them easier to identify; using online resources such as this website can help you become more familiar with invasives, which is the first step towards treatment options.