CalEPPC
A quarterly publication of the California News Exotic Pest Plant Council
Volume 7 Numbers 3/4 Summer/Fall 1999
IN THIS ISSUE Presidents Message Mike Pitcairn ...... p. 3 Ecology & Management of Alien Annual Plants in the California Deserts Matt Brooks & Kristin Berry p. 4 Where the Wild Weeds Are Tamara Kan ...... p. 7 Weed Management Areas Steve Schoenig ...... p. 9 The Role of Herbicies in Preserving Biodiversity Jake Sigg ...... p. 10
Elizabeth Brooks holding huge Brassica tournefortii, Kramer Hills, San Bernardino. Photo by Matt Brooks CalEPPC News Who We Are 2000 CalEPPC Officers and
CalEPPC NEWS is published quarterly Board Members by the California Exotic Pest Plant Council, a non-profit organization. The Officers objects of the organization are to: President Mike Kelly email:
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Page 2 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News Presidents Message Mike Pitcairn
here are several methods used in California and approval for release F&W), an Environmental Assessment Tin controlling exotic, invasive of these insects has not been pursued (EA) may be required. EAs often weeds. Usually no one method here. require information regarding all is used to control these plants; rather Recently, the California Depart- available control methods, especially a combination of methods is required. ment of Food and Agricultures biological control methods. How these methods are combined for (CDFA) Biological Control Program Sometimes, a natural enemy will a particular habitat is specified in an produced a list of all exotic natural find its way to its host without the integrated weed management plan. enemies approved for release as deliberate efforts of biological control One of these methods of weed biological control agents in California. workers. The natural enemies listed in control is biological control, where The list is presented in Table 1, page Table 2 are the 26 insects that have natural enemies of a weed (usually 6 which lists all weeds that have been found on 19 weeds or host herbivorous insects or pathogens) are biological control agents approved for plants that were not part of an transported from the weeds area of California. If you are aware of a intentional release effort. These host origin and released in its new habitat. biological control agent used on a associations were in some cases the The abundance of several exotic weed in other states, but is not listed result of native species attacking weeds [e.g. Klamath weed (Hyperi- in Table 1, then that agent is not weeds closely allied to their native cum perforatum), tansy ragwort approved for use in California and is hosts (e.g. Uresiphita reversalis on (Senecio jacobaea), pucturevine not available. French Broom), unknown introduc- (Tribulus terrestris), and musk thistle A total of 49 species of natural tions of insects from other parts of (Carduus nutans)] have been substan- enemies have been imported into the world (e.g. Aganopterix tially reduced following introduction of California and released against 22 alstroemeriana on poison hemlock), their natural enemies. This activity is species of weeds. Of the 49 species, accidental introductions (e.g. highly regulated for a natural enemy is 22 are well established in California Chaetorellia succinea on yellow not approved for introduction until it and available for distribution and can starthistle) or natural spread of the has gone under a series of host tests be obtained by calling your County biological control agent (e.g. that serve to identify which host plants Agricultural Commissioners office. Urophora quadrifasciata) from will likely be attacked after release. However, before one considers use of releases that occurred in other states Only those natural enemies that have a particular biological control agent, (Washington and Oregon) or countries a high degree of host-specificity are one should look at the other columns (Canada). In some cases these new approved for release. Also, two levels included in Table 1 which give prelimi- associations resulted in variable of approval are required for release of nary information on its potential to degrees of fortuitous biological control an exotic biological control agent. control its host. Twelve species have in the weeds. Also listed in Table 2 are First, is the approval obtained by the limited distributions either because of releases of an approved biological United States Department of Agricul- the limited distribution of their host control agent on weeds closely related ture (USDA) for introduction into plant or because the biological control to their original target (e.g. North America. Second, is approval agent is still expanding its population. Bangasternus fausti on squarrose by the state into which the release will It should be noted that three species knapweed). Other than the last case, be made. It is not unusual for a natural were recently released and their status none of the natural enemies in Table enemy to be approved in one state is still in the initial release stage. On 2 have been approved as biological but not another. Thus, even though the other hand, eight species failed to control agents and, thus, are not some insects are currently approved establish and the status of two others available for redistribution. These for release elsewhere in the United is unknown. species are listed because they are States, these insects have not been The information provided in this common and appear to provide some approved for release in California. table may be useful in other ways as impact on their host species. Examples include insects that have well. In order to obtain approval for Thank you for the great two been released on leafy spurge and an integrated weed management plan years as President of CalEPPC and Dalmatian toadflax in Montana. Both on lands managed by Federal Agen- working with a wonderful Board of of these plants are under eradication cies (e.g. BLM, Forest Service, US Directors. j
Spring 1999 Page 3 CalEPPC News Ecology and Management of Alien Annual Plants in the California Desert by Matt Brooks and Kristin Berry
USDI, USGS, Biological Resources Division, Western Ecological Research Center, 6221 Box Springs Blvd., Riverside, CA 92507 [email protected], [email protected]
lien plants comprise a rela of the ecologically similar Mediterra- habitats are being altered. Potential Atively small proportion of nean grass during the middle 1900s. negative effects include reduced desert floras worldwide, and Plant litter created by alien annual availability of preferred food plants, the deserts of California are no grasses decomposes more slowly than loss or reduction of available nutrients exception. Estimates of the propor- that of native annuals and accumulates and trace elements, and change in tion of alien plants range from 9 to during successive years. Alien grass lit- seasonal availability of plant foods. 13%, compared to a global average of ter can inhibit germination of native an- The desert tortoise, a threatened 16%. Although relatively few alien nuals by shading the soil, reducing the species in Mojave and Colorado plants have invaded this region, the amount of water that reaches the soil, deserts, provides one example of number is increasing and a select few and suspending seeds above and out of potential impacts. The tortoise is an now dominate many areas and contact with the soil. Experimental re- herbivore and prefers native annual negatively affect or threaten to affect moval of alien grass litter increases den- and herbaceous perennial plants to ecosystem integrity. sity and diversity of native annuals. alien annual plants. For example, in The most studied alien plant Alien annuals can indirectly affect the western Mojave Desert where species in the California deserts is the native plants by increasing the frequency alien grasses and forbs typically form riparian perennial Tamarix spp., but of wildfires. Stems of alien annual over 50% of the available biomass of riparian habitats comprise only 3% of grasses remain rooted and the entire region and the remaining upright through the summer upland area is dominated by alien fire season and into succes- annual plants. Alien annuals often sive years, whereas those of comprise 50-97% of the total annual most native forbs crumble plant biomass, and are present at soon after they senesce. virtually all sites. Thus, annuals are High frequency and cover of currently the most widespread and dead alien grasses facilitate common alien plants in the California the spread of fire in an oth- deserts. erwise fire-resistant land- scape. Soil nutrient levels of- Effects of Alien Annuals on ten increase after desert fires, Native Plants thereby facilitating the rees- Bromus rubens in a burned area, Opal tablishment of alien annual grasses and Mountain, San Bernardino, California. Alien annuals can compete with promoting additional fires. Recurrent native annual plants. Red brome, annual plants, native plants comprise fire can convert high diversity native Mediterranean grass, cheatgrass, and 95% of the desert tortoise diet. The desertscrub into low diversity alien an- red-stemmed filaree can all effectively Mohave ground squirrel, a rare nual grassland. compete with native annual plants for endemic species of the western and soil water and nitrogen. This competi- central Mojave deserts, may have Effects of Alien Annuals on tion leads to reduced density, biom- similar forage preferences for native Native Animals ass, and diversity of native annuals. plants. The awns and spines of some Although it is unknown if an alien Little is known about effects of alien plants pierce the guts and skin of annual species could completely aliens on native animals. With increas- domestic animals and may have displace a native species, a previously ing diversity and biomass of alien similar deleterious effects on the common native annual grass, six- annuals, food chains of native herbi- health and survivorship of native weeks fescue (Vulpia octoflora), vores and omnivores and the compo- animals. became uncommon after the invasion sition and structure of vegetation in Continued page 5
Page 4 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News Ecology & Management of Alien Annual Plants (contd)
Alien annual plants can alter the structure in some desert plant com- nance of alien annual grasses and the microstructure of desert habitats. Alien munities. Joshua trees often die if loss of native shrub communities annual grasses such as Mediterranean burned, potentially diminishing habitat there. Although current deposition grass can form dense mats in the for wood rats, phainopeplas, kestrels, rates are undoubtedly much lower in beneath shrub and intershrub spaces, shrikes, cactus wrens, desert spiny the desert, future rates there will likely impeding the movements of small lizards, and desert night lizards. increase as human population and air lizards and other animals, reducing pollution levels rise. availability of nest sites for birds, and Future Trends altering ground temperatures. The Changes in global climate may Management Needs often dense and persistent stands of encourage the invasions of exotic Land managers have limited control bromes, mustards, and Russian annual species in the California over some of the trends described thistles may have a similar effects. deserts. Increased levels of atmospheric above, but there is still much that they Several species of desert lizards CO have increased over 25% since can do to manage alien plants. 2 depend on open environments for pre-industrial times worldwide, and high speed travel, escaping predators, CO concentrations in the atmo- Coordination among Land 2 and finding prey items and mates. sphere are expected to double before Managers. Weed management is Increased annual plant cover in the end of the 21st century. Increased most effective when efforts transcend habitats invaded by aliens may limit CO is known to enhance production jurisdictional boundaries to encompass 2 the population sizes, health, and of rapidly-growing cool season entire ecoregions. Coordination is ultimately, the distribution of verte- species such as alien annual grasses most effective at preventing new brates. and forbs. invasions, which is critical in the Climatologists predict increased California deserts where the number Changes in global summer rainfall in the California of alien species is still relatively low. deserts over the next century. Current climate may en- periods of high rainfall promote the Develop a List of Alien Species courage the inva- spread of alien annuals and the Already in the Region. A few land buildup of dead biomass that leads to managers have begun to develop lists, sions of exotic an- increased fire frequency during but all should join in this effort to subsequent years. The northern and determine the extent of the alien plant nual species in the western regions of the California problem and to identify hotspots of California deserts. deserts currently have little summer invasion. rainfall, and increased amounts during summer may open up these areas to Develop a List of Potential As mentioned above, alien plants invasion by warm season alien plants. Invaders. The most reliable predictor contribute to increasing frequency and Deposition of atmospheric of species invasiveness in the Califor- size of fires in the California deserts. nitrogen from air pollutants can nia desert appears to be invasiveness These fires reduce shrub cover, benefit alien plants, especially in the in similar habitats elsewhere. By change food availability for wildlife, California deserts where low nutrient assessing the invasiveness of plants in and fragment habitat. For example, levels appear to be a major impedi- deserts worldwide and evaluating the fires are reducing the quality of desert ment to invasion. Even small in- patterns of world trade that may bring tortoise Critical Habitat. Desert creases in available nitrogen (3.2 g/ these species to the California deserts, we can compile a list of potential tortoises require cover of shrubs for m2/yr) can increase density and protection from temperature extremes biomass of aliens, and decrease invaders. As incipient populations of and predators, and for burrows sites. density, biomass, and diversity of these species are found, we will About 70% of tortoise burrows are native annuals in the desert. Deposi- already know their potential for under the canopies of large shrubs, tion rates of 4.5 g/m2/yr have been spread and thus their priority for particularly creosote bushes. Alien- recorded in the Los Angeles basin, control. induced fires also reduce habitat and are associated with high domi- Continued page 6
Spring 1999 Page 5 CalEPPC News Ecology & Management of Alien Annual Plants (contd)
Establish a Monitoring Program the preferred methods to control Hunter, R. 1991. Bromus invasions on to Detect New Invaders. Monitoring incipient populations of new invaders. the Nevada Test Site: present status of may focus on hotspots for invasion, Biological control agents are the only B. rubens and B. tectorum with notes such as along roads, washes, or at the feasible option for widespread alien on their relationship to disturbance and urban-wildland interface. Coordination plants, but very little bio-control altitude. Great Basin Naturalist 51: 176- among land managers is particularly research is conducted for alien annu- 182. important, because monitoring is als that infest wildland areas. In any useless if some managers fail to identify case, land managers should carefully Jennings, W. B. 1993. Foraging new invasions and allow them to consider what species may replace ecology of the desert tortoise become established in the region. any alien plant targeted for control, (Gopherus agassizii) in the western and if removal of an alien will result in Mojave Desert. University of Texas at Develop Remote Sensing Techniques positive ecological change. j Arlington. for Alien Annuals. Although these M.S. Thesis. techniques may not be sensitive enough to reliably detect new invasions, they Bibliography Kemp, P., and M.L. Brooks. 1998. may be extremely useful in monitoring Allen, E.B., P.E. Padgett, A. Exotic Species of California Deserts. species that are already widespread or Bytnerowicz, R. Minnich. 1998. Fremontia 26:30-34. locally abundant. Nitrogen deposition effects on coastal sage vegetation of southern California. Leitner, P. and B. M. Leitner. 1998. Evaluate the Mechanisms of Plant United States Department of Agricul- Coso grazing exclosure monitoring Invasion. Much research is still needed ture, Pacific Southwest Research study. Mohave ground squirrel study, to describe the characteristics that make Station, General Technical Report-164. Coso Known Geothermal Resource species invasive and habitats invasible. Area. Major Findings, 1988-1996. Beatley, J. C. 1966. Ecological status of Leitner and Leitner, 2 Parkway Court, Evaluate Effects of Aliens on introduced brome grasses (Brome spp.) Orinda, California 94563. Threatened and Endangered in desert vegetation of southern Ne- Plants and Animals. vada. Ecology 47: 548-554 Melgoza, G. and R. S. Nowak. 1991. More research is essential to determine Competition between cheatgrass and effects of aliens on threatened and Brooks, M.L. 1998. Ecology of a two native species after fire: implica- endangered taxa, especially those living Biological Invasion: Alien Annual Plants tions from observations and measure- in threatened habitats or characteristic in the Mojave Desert. Dissertation, ments of root distribution. Journal of of wide-spread ecosystems, and to University of California, Riverside. 186 Range Management 44:27-33. ensure that recovery efforts will be pp. effective. Minnich, R.A., and A.C. Sanders. In Brooks, M.L. in press a. Schismus press. Brassica tournefortii (Gouan.) Evaluate Effects of Aliens on spp., Schismus arabicus Nees and Sahara mustard. In C. Bossard, M. Ecosystem Integrity. If we are to Schismus barbatus (L.) Thell., Mediter- Hoshovsky, and J. Randall eds. Nox- understand ecosystem-level effects of ranean Grass (Split Grass). In C. ious Wildland Weeds of California. aliens and develop appropriate man- Bossard M. Hoshovsky, and J. Randall agement actions, then we need to step eds. Noxious Wildland Weeds of up ecosystem-level research, especially California. while some potentially alien-free sites still remain to serve as control sites. Brooks, M.L. in press b. Bromus madritensis subsp. rubens (L.) Husnot Develop Methods to Control [B. rubens L.], Foxtail Chess (Red Alien Plants. Mechanical weeding or Brome). In C. Bossard M. Hoshovsky, herbicide application are options for and J. Randall eds. Noxious Wildland small infestations, and these may be Weeds of California.
Page 6 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News Where the Wild Weeds Are: The Value of a Rapid Assessment of Invasive Weeds Tamara Kan Introduction GPS does not work well in the steep relatively rare. Native grasses are n 1997 I conducted an assessment canyons found on many of the pre- important in their own right, as well as of the invasive weeds for the serves. providing seed sources for restoration I projects. Midpeninsula Regional Open The terrain covered several Space District (MROSD) in San Mateo habitats including oak woodland, mixed and Santa Clara Counties which evergreen forest, chaparral, coastal involved surveying over 35,000 acres scrub, riparian, and annual grassland. (about 55 square miles) spread among Communities dominated by trees and 23 preserves. I undertook this daunt- shrubs turned out to be the easiest to ing challenge, not knowing that when survey as nearly all the weeds of I finished I would feel a somewhat concern were restricted to trails, roads fanatical zeal for the value of this and obviously disturbed sites. In these work, in particular for prioritizing communities I found that the vast weed control efforts. I am sharing the majority of weeds had not penetrated results of the weed survey to encour- into the less disturbed areas. Neverthe- 1997 before broom removal, Saratoga Ridge, MROSD lands age other land managers to conduct less, a few infestations were surely similar assessments before imple- missed, such as English ivy which is menting their own weed control spread by birds as well as by vegetative programs. growth. Grasslands were significantly more Field Survey Methods difficult to survey and map. The survey The equipment used was decidedly focused on non-grass weeds such as low-tech: pencil and paper, a trail map, yellow starthistle and fennel. These and hiking boots. Notebook in hand, I weeds are not restricted to trails but are chose a preserve, and began walking all distributed throughout the grasslands, the trails. Using the trail map, I drew in thus, surveying required traversing back 1999 after broom removal, Saratoga Ridge, MROSD lands locations of the infestations by hand. I and forth across the open grasslands as also wrote down observations about well as walking the roads and trails. Results each infestation in the notebook. For The invasive thistles were usually After completing the field work, I example, when encountering a small so widespread in the grasslands, it was used the field map and notes to pro- infestation, it was usually easy to do a more useful and feasible to estimate duce a document with the following complete count. I estimated the size of percent cover, than to map the indi- information for each of the 23 pre- larger infestations by simply pacing vidual populations. Realizing the serves: along the edge and translating the difficulty of making accurate ocular number of paces into feet. estimates of percent cover, I soon the locations and degree of infesta- I purposely did not take detailed switched to using cover classes. For tion for the major weed species measurements. This would take too example 0-1%, 1-10%, 10-30%, etc. a list of recommended management much time and the point was to make a Estimating cover classes over large actions rapid assessment that would be useful, areas was still quite difficult and it was detailed field notes not to collect scientifically rigorous data important to have one person making a weed map utilizing a different which would take much longer to all the observations to minimize indi- color to represent each weed species. complete. At the time I thought it was vidual bias. The maps proved to be very helpful in unnecessary to use a global positioning In addition to noting the weed portraying the entire weed situation of a system (GPS) and that simply determin- infestations, I mapped the larger native preserve at a glance. But further ing locations from the trail maps would grass stands found within the predomi- distillation of the information was still be adequate. For the most part I have nantly non-native annual grasslands. required in order to limit brain overload found this to be the case. In addition Large stands of native grasses are Continued page 8
Spring 1999 Page 7 CalEPPC News Where the Wild Weeds Are (contd)
from examining 23 maps. So, I made a concerns regularly take priority over summary table ranking the degree of weed control. Currently, I am working infestation for each weed species on on encouraging MROSD to fund a full- each preserve. By examining the or part-time weed control position to summary table and referring occasion- implement the weed control plan. ally to the main document and maps, it Using the summary table and weed was relatively simple to prioritize sites maps for guidance, the weed problem and develop a logical weed manage- could be greatly reduced on MROSD ment plan. lands. Completing the entire project including field work, map making, and Discussion report writing took approximately 370 Based on observations in the field person hours (or about nine weeks, and endless ruminations on the subject Exotic broom and pulgas on MROSD working 40 hours per week). The I developed the following criteria for times pinpoint avoidable causes of local amount of time spent on any one prioritizing weed sites for control infestations. For example, young preserve varied dramatically, depending efforts. The number one priority was to stands of French broom often occurred on the preserves size, degree of eradicate the small, isolated populations in bends of the trail where bulldozers infestation, and habitat types. In of the most invasive species (this had recently worked the soil. In these general, preserves that were larger, had included species which were common cases weed seeds were clearly spread more weed species, larger infestations, on some areas of the preserve, but had by the MROSDs own trail mainte- and contained more grassland habitat, one or more isolated small populations nance equipment. In another case, the took the longest to survey. which could easily be locally eradicated source of a grassland fennel infestation to prevent further spread). This was was a small roadside infestation on clearly the most efficient use of time neighboring Caltrans property. The and required minimal use of resources survey also showed where a particular for the greatest gain. Second, was to species behaved most aggressively. For focus on the leading edge of larger example, pampas grass was much infestations and work back toward the more of a problem in the coastal center. Again this prevents the species preserves than in the more inland from spreading. This may seem warmer preserves. In general, control obvious, but I have observed haphazard efforts should focus first in areas where weed control efforts focused mainly on a species is most invasive. Photo of arundo and pulgas on MROSD lands. the largest infestations near parking lots Finally, the survey provides a Implementation because of the simple logistics, while baseline assessment to measure the Soon after the survey was com- the few outliers were ignored as not effectiveness of future control efforts. pleted a local chapter of CNPS ex- being a problem. The third priority was Alternatively, if no funding is available pressed interest in working on a weed to focus on the most sensitive habitats. for weed control, repeating the survey control project. The summary table Eradicating a yellow starthistle infesta- in a few years will show the rate of quickly provided them with a high tion from a native grass stand should spread. This will demonstrate the priority site of the aggressive Cape ivy. take priority over an infestation located severity of the problem to those in Currently, MROSD staff are in non-native grassland. charge of distributing funds for manage- gradually addressing some of the other The value of the rapid assessment ment! high priority weed sites on the pre- was in locating and mapping the small, I hope this article helps you design serves. The California Conservation isolated populations, the leading edge of your own method of assessing and Corps has been hired occasionally to the larger populations, and identifying prioritizing weed control. If you have address some of the larger infestations. sensitive habitats such as native grass any questions or comments please Now that it is clear where the work lies, stands. write me at
Page 8 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News Cooperative Weed First Releases Management Areas of Saltcedar Biocontrol Steve Schoenig Agents Weed Management Area Glenn, Colusa, Tehama (WMA) is a local organization Jean Miller (530)-934-6501 A Modoc Weed Management Area fter many delays, releases that brings together landown- Modoc County, Allison Sanger (530) 233-5811 have begun of an insect from ers and managers (private, city, Lassen County Noxious Weed SWAT Team A China to help control the county, state, and federal) in a county, Lassen County, Carolyn Gibbs (530) 257- 0456, [email protected] scourge of saltcedar. During early multi-county, or other geographical Central Sierra Partnership Against Weeds August, Dr. Ray Carruthers (Exotic & Calaveras & Tuolumne Counties, Marian area for the purpose of coordinating Invasive Research Unit, USDA and combining action and expertise in Chambers (209) 533-5691 Amador Weed Management Area Agricultural Research Service) released combating common invasive weed Amador County, Mike Boitano (209) 223- several tamarisk leaf beetles, species. The WMA functions under 6481, amaag@cdepot Southern and Central Sierra Diorhabda elongata, at two sites in the authority of a mutually developed Noxious Weed Alliance California (Owens Valley, Inyo memorandum of understanding Mariposa, Madera, & Fresno Counties, County, and Fort Hunter Liggett (MOU) and is subject to statutory and Joanna Clines (209) 297-0706 x 4938 Army Base in Monterey County). Kern Weed Management Area regulatory weed control requirements. Kern County, David Moore (661) 868-6300, At each of these sites, either 200 A WMA may be voluntarily governed [email protected] eggs or 400 adults were released into by a chairperson or a steering com- Eastern Sierra Weed Management Area a large 12 x 20 x 6 foot field cage. Inyo & Mono Counties, George Milovitch mittee. To date, groups in California (760) 873-7860 These field cages protect the develop- have been initiated by either the Plumas/Sierra Noxious WEEDS Manage- ing insects, prevent them from leadership of the County Agricultural ment Group immediately dispersing, and allow Plumas and Sierra Counties, Suzanne Ebright Commissioners Office or a Federal (530) 283-6365 scientists to monitor their develop- Agency employee. WMAs are unique Nevada County Management Area ment and impact on saltcedar. After because they attempt to address Nevada County, Eric Gunderson (530) 273- one year, the cages will be removed, 2648 and the leaf beetles allowed to dis- agricultural (regulatory) weeds and El Dorado Noxious Weed Management wildland weeds under one local Area perse to neighboring saltcedar. umbrella of organization. It is hoped El Dorado County, Bill Frost (530) 621-5502, The tamarisk leaf beetle was also [email protected] that participation will extend from all released at two sites in Nevada Tulare Weed Management Area (Humbolt River and Walker River). agencies and private organizations. Tulare County, Joe Williams, (559) 732-9163 WMAs have printed weed I.D./ x134, [email protected] Additional releases are planned for San Luis Obispo Weed Management Area another site in California (Yolo control brochures, organized weed San Luis County, Richard Greek (805) 781- County) and in Texas, Colorado, education events, written and ob- 5910 Wyoming, and Utah. j tained grants, coordinated demonstra- Fort Ord Weed Management Area Monterey County-Fort Ord Area, Jack tion plots, instituted joint eradication Massera (831) 663-5537 13th Australian Weeds and mapping projects, as well as, Big Sur Weed Management Area many other creative and effective Monterey County-Big Sur Coast, Jeff Kwasny Conference to be held in (831) 385-5434 outreach and weed management Santa Clara County Perth, Western Australia, projects. Eric Wylde (408) 299-2172 Sept. 2002 Alameda/Contra Costa Weed Mgmnt Area Vince Guise (925) 646-5250 To be put on the mailing list and For further information about Marin Weed Management Area receive registration brochures (when WMAs in general see the California Stacy Carlson (415) 499-6700 Trinity Weed Management Area they are available), please register WMA website at http:// Trinity County, Jay Thesken (530) 623-1356 your interest with the conference www.cdfa.ca.gov/wma or contact Humboldt Weed Management Area organiser, present a paper or poster, Steve Schoenig at the California Humboldt County, Lisa Hoover (707) 441-3612 Siskiyou Weed Management Area or suggestions for workshop topics or Department of Food and Agriculture, Siskiyou County, Pat Griffin (530) 841-4025 field trips contact [email protected] For informa- Shasta Weed Management Area
Spring 1999 Page 9 CalEPPC News The Role of Herbicides in Preserving Biodiversity Jake Sigg
o data exist for private confronting the California flora. their David-and-Goliath battle Nland, but the Bureau of I am a proponent of judicious against overwhelming infestations. Land Management (BLM) herbicide use, and favor their He cites a tragic case in Idahos estimates that the United States is employment as a vital part of a Craig Mountain Wildlife Manage- losing 6,000 acres of public land weed management strategy. ment Area where a program of every day to invasive non-native hand spot-spraying of yellow star plants (4,600 acres a day in the thistle was stopped by a court west alone), rendering land eco- Our discomfort injunction which resulted from a nomically useless and biologically with chemicals be- suit brought by the Northwest impoverished. The technologies Coalition for Alternatives to for weed containment havent gan with revela- Pesticides. The partnership be- kept pace with the advent and tween BLM and the U.S. Forest spread of rampant exotics, which tions in Rachel Service was successfully controlling have mushroomed because of a Carsons Silent the infestation; the injunction mobile and burgeoning human allowed the thistle to leap out of population. The upward trend of Spring... control, infesting tens of thousands weed invasions and spread will of acres of priceless habitat that likely cause loss of biological Our discomfort with chemicals had previously supported a great diversity and landscape homogeni- began with revelations in Rachel diversity of wildlife such as bighorn zation--biological sameness on a Carsons Silent Spring in the sheep, grouse, elk, moose, deer, global scale--and at an ever- 1960s. The use of chemicals as a and wintering bald eagles--habitat increasing rate. Apathy in the face quick fix for complex problems that is for all practical purposes of the weed threat may be more created a backlash, resulting in a gone, possibly forever. In a similar apparent than real; nevertheless, regulatory climate that protects situation, a frustrated Don public awareness is well behind the public against many of the Schmitz of Floridas Department the curve. The need for education dangerous substances used indis- of Environmental Protection fumes and changes in resource manage- criminately in the past. Herbicides at those who are unwilling to ment is crucial. became entangled in the reaction accept a short-term environmental In the frequently polarized to chemicals, but evidence is insult to avoid a long-term ecologi- debate over the use of herbicides skimpy regarding negative effects cal catastrophe. Weed warriors in battling aggressive weeds, the of todays available non-restricted are keenly aware that once native subject of biodiversity is too often products when used according to biological communities have been lost. Herbicides, per se, have label directions. Some people displaced by weeds, they find it become the focus of the debate. want to prohibit all herbicide use, difficult or impossible to restore This is backwards--biological but they dont address benefits nor them; losing them sometimes diversity should be front and the level of risk; those striving to means losing them forever--a center. This is the pivot on which preserve natural communities feel needless deeply painful loss. the California Native Plant Society threatened by attempts to deprive Our present technologies (CNPS) policy must turn. Does them of an essential tool. for countering invasive non-native proper use of herbicides work for In an article, Killer Weeds in weeds are rudimentary and few: or against biodiversity? Herbicide the March-April 1997 Audubon, control by biological agents, critics usually isolate the subject. author Ted Williams excoriates manual eradication, mechanized They neglect the differences those he calls chemophobes. The removal, fire, and herbicides. All between herbicides and fail to article epitomizes the frustration have limitations; all are essential. address the serious weed problem and anger felt by those stymied in Continued page 11
Page 10 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News The Role of Herbicides (contd)
Options 3. With the paucity of available for other successful examples 1. Classical biological control techniques, is it any wonder that where employment of herbicides offers the greatest, and perhaps careful use of herbicides has played a crucial role resulted in an only, hope for some plants and the found acceptance by thoughtful overnight torrent: saltcedar single best means of reducing people? This article addresses (Tamarix spp.) eradication projects need for herbicides. A successful herbicide use only for the control in Afton Canyon near San Bernar- example of classical biocontrol is of wildland weeds which are dino, The Nature Conservancys provided by Klamath weed, (Hy- threatening biological diversity Dos Palmas Reserve, and Lake pericum perforatum), which was and does not address non-ecologi- Mead National Recreation Area; devastating rangelands in northern cal uses such as increasing timber Cape ivy (Delairea odorata), California and Oregon in the production. There are many artichoke thistle (Cynara 1940s but which has been re- examples of indigenous plant cardunculus), eucalyptus (Euca- duced to insignificant levels by the communities being saved at the lyptus spp.), and many other introduction of a predatory beetle last minute and restored to native weedy species in Los Peñasquitos which feeds exclusively on Kla- stock by an integrated manage- Canyon Preserve in San Diego; math weed. On the downside, ment program in which herbicides castor bean (Ricinus communis), biocontrol is not feasible for some played a necessary role. pampas grass, myoporum plants--such as those closely Even highly motivated volun- (Myoporum laetum) et al in related to agricultural crops, or teers have not attempted to save Newport Beach, in Big Sycamore those which are attacked only by the state- and federally-listed Canyon (Point Mugu State Park), generalist predators which feed on endangered fountain thistle, Leo Carrillo State Park, Liberty a wide range of host plants. (Cirsium fontinale ssp. fontinale) Canyon and Malibu Lagoon Developing a biological control --endemic to a small area on the (Malibu Creek State Park); Team agent is initially expensive and San Francisco peninsula--because Arundos Santa Ana River restora- time-consuming, and there is no of its labor-intensive demands. At tion; pampas grass on Milagra guarantee of success. Up to now it the request of CNPS, the Califor- Ridge in the Golden Gate National has been inadequately funded but nia Department of Transportation Recreation Area near San Fran- there are now hopeful signs that and the San Francisco Water cisco; ice plant (Carpobrotus this may change. Department initiated a program edulis) at Asilomar State Park, the 2. Manual eradication can achieve of cutting and painting the invad- Marina dunes, and the Marine Lab inspiring results in localized areas-- ing pampas grass with glyphosate at Bodega Head in Marin County. exemplars are the stewardship to prevent the thistle being Plainly, many of those who programs of the Golden Gate overwhelmed in its serpentine value biodiversity seriously enough National Recreation Area in the seep habitat; this appears to be a to donate a large part of their lives San Francisco Bay Area and the success story in the making. Rich to an effort to preserve it consider Wildlands Restoration Team in the grassland/wildflower areas in and herbicides indispensable. Aside Santa Cruz Mountains. With around San Francisco--tiny but from cost-effectiveness and time- increasing popularity of site- precious--are there today because saving, employment of herbicides stewardship programs, use of this herbicides provided crucial sup- has the considerable advantage of technique can be greatly enlarged. port to volunteers teetering on not creating soil disturbance, which The value of this multi-dimen- the brink of demoralization in the activates the weed-seed bank and sional approach to weed control face of advancing fronts of fennel favors weeds over natives. In the cannot be overstated. Still, the (Foeniculum vulgare), pampas cited instance of Bodega Head, a fact of millions of acres of overrun grass (Cortaderia jubata), and project ongoing since 1985, dune wildland in California reveals the French broom (Genista natives were being buried under limitations of site-stewardship as a monspessulana) perceived as thick carpets of ice plant. Manag- solution to either the California or invincible. ers sprayed the ice plant, which the global problem. An email appeal to activists Continued page 12
Spring 1999 Page 11 CalEPPC News The Role of Herbicides (contd)
decayed slowly over a long period. two chemical compounds: that take an additional year or Native plants returned on their glyphosate and triclopyr, usually more to complete. This costs a own without human help. A marketed under the trade names company more money and delays similar case is in process in the of Roundup Pro/Rodeo and the review and registration pro- Marina dunes, managed by the Garlon/Pathfinder II, respectively. cess in California. EPA and the state parks department. This is an The Environmental Protection California Department of Pesti- efficient and ecologically sound Agency (EPA) classes herbicides cide Regulation (CDPR) examine method which should be employed and all pesticides according to four all test results carried out by the more often. Manual eradication of groups, with those considered manufacturer and have full audit infestations better managed by dangerous enough to be restricted authority over the results. There is the judicious use of herbicides is placed in Classes I and II, and not enough money in the EPA and poor use of limited resources. graduating downward to Classes III CDPR budgets to do independent and IV, which are non-restricted, testing, but their ability to look A Rational Dialogue bear only a Caution label, and into company records and to Difficulty in attaining rational which may be purchased retail. conduct on-site inspections keeps dialogue is partly embedded in Glyphosate and triclopyr are in companies fairly honest. The language. The word toxic can Class III. research regarding safety of non- be defined in many ways. In restricted herbicides is accepted addition to bearing a wide variety All herbicides by the World Health Organization. of meanings it also carries heavy Many people distrust assur- emotional freight. It has meaning are required to ances on herbicides by agencies or only in relation to something else: corporations. However, faulty data oxygen is lethal to some organ- undergo rigorous generated for EPA on chemical isms but essential to others. Salt, safety are easily detected if they chlorine, and aspirin can be toxic testing to become are inaccurate, misleading, or to humans at high dosages but are registered in the incomplete, and there are critics willingly ingested in proper ready to pounce on this highly amounts. Modern herbicides have U.S. visible issue. EPA, the manufac- been improved in recent years and turer, and the testing scientists are cleverly designed to work in All herbicides, including surfac- have too much at stake to risk various highly specific ways to tants (which aid herbicide adher- falsifying data or methodology. interfere with the functioning of a ence and penetration) and inert Non-profit organizations attempt- specific target; they may or may ingredients, are required to un- ing to eliminate or reduce chemi- not be detrimental to organisms dergo rigorous testing to become cal use have zeroed in on herbi- not targeted. It would be construc- registered in the United States. cides and have succeeded in tive to look at what is going on These tests typically include creating anxiety among some without attaching emotional labels animal toxicity (carcinogenicity, people. However, credible studies to what may be a harmless pro- teratogenicity, acute toxicity), documenting negative effects cess. effects on non-target organisms, have not been forthcoming. The first issue of an herbicide and mode of degradation in the Studies reported in, for example, policy is safety--to humans, soil environment. These are extensive the Journal of Pesticide Reform, microorganisms, wildlife, and tests that take years to complete. are not subjected to peer review ecosystems. There are many It takes chemical companies seven by disinterested scientists. Popu- chemicals on the market for to ten years and forty to eighty larized articles are widely read and controlling vegetation. As a practi- million dollars to satisfy EPA believed by readers. This cal matter when we talk of con- requirements and bring a new pseudoscientific reporting ac- trolling wildland weeds in Califor- active ingredient to the market. counts for most of the controversy nia, we are referring primarily to California requires further tests Continued page 13
Page 12 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News The Role of Herbicides (contd)
surrounding the subject and it cide use vastly increased my Species extinction and loss of places another obstacle to the productivity. It would have been biodiversity are becoming weekly formidable job of preserving impossible to maintain these areas stories in the media. Indifference biodiversity. in an acceptable manner without to the rending of natures fabric Classes III and IV herbicides spraying. Modern wage rates while we deny ourselves a useful have been in use for a long time prohibit manual eradication of and apparently safe weapon is by millions of people, including weeds on the scale required in our beyond understanding. It is mis- home gardeners, who may pur- public parks and open spaces, to leading to say that herbicides chase them at their local nursery say nothing of natural resource should be used only as a last or hardware store. As a profes- management, where resource resort. On the scale of the larger sional gardener in San Franciscos preservation is the primary con- landscape, we already passed the parks and botanic garden, I used cern. There is a long history of last resort stage. Critics would glyphosate-formulated herbicides safe and economical maintenance enhance their credibility if they intensively over a period of twenty using herbicides. In the face of devoted more thought to ways to years. Specific areas were repeat- this experience, wouldnt we have preserve the miraculous diversity edly and effectively treated with- evidence by this time of negative of life we have inherited. To date out diminution in soil productivity or harmful effects? It is up to we have been poor stewards of or indication of negative effects, critics to identify and substantiate this gift. j including to the applicator. Herbi- need for further studies. Letter from the Editor
n February 1992, I attended an exploratory meeting in the Bay Area where it was suggested a group similar to Floridas IExotic Pest Plant Council be organized in California. Greg Archbald, George Molnar, John Randall, Carla Bossard, Jack Beigle, Dave Chipping and many others joined in efforts to organize a larger meeting to be held on the Central Coast. On October 9-10, 1992 the first CalEPPC Symposium was held at the Inn in Morro Bay. Some people were turned away as the capacity was limited to 150 participants. Looking over that program I see that many of the speakers at that first meeting continue to be active supporters of CalEPPC: Carla DAntonio, Carla Bossard, John Randall, Bill Neill, Dave Boyd, Nelroy Jackson, Dave Chipping, Mike Evans, and Greg Archbald. The Saturday meeting was devoted to projects and goals. A Steering Committee was formed, and when the question was raised, I blithely volunteered to be editor of the newsletter. Little did I realize what the position entailed or how profoundly my life would be changed.
CalEPPC News Volume 1, Number 1 was published the Winter of 1993. By the time Volume 7 Number 1 went to press, I had moved from Pismo Beach, to Cambria, to Sacramento, to Trabuco Canyon, and finally to San Juan Capistrano where I have resided for the past year. The newsletter has evolved from the cut and paste method to entirely electronic in nature.
After almost eight years it is time for me to pass the editorship on to another. Melanie Howe has graciously volun- teered to become editor of the CalEPPC News. Mel will certainly need your support. Please submit articles, meeting an- nouncements or other appropriate news items to Mel by email (at the present) to: [email protected]. You may contact her at: 5700 Baltimore Drive, No. 195, La Mesa, CA 91942. (619) 463.3364.
I am very proud to be a part of this organization, and Im very glad I raised my hand so many years ago.
Sally Davis
Spring 1999 Page 13 CalEPPC News 1999 CalEPPC Institutional Sponsors
Sustaining Patron Contributing Monsanto Company California Native Plant Society Natures Image RRM Design Group Sapphos Environmental, Inc. Target Specialty Products Wilbur-Ellis Company Wildlands Restoration Team Regular Agri Chemical & Supply, Inc. Joshua Tree National Forest Sierra View Landscape Arastradero Preserve Stewardship Lilburn Corporation Small Wilderness Area Preservation Project LSA Associates Smith & Reynolds Erosion Control Bitterroot Restoration Marin Conservation Corps Strybing Arboretum Brewer International Marin Municipal Water District The Nature Conservancy, Las Vegas CA State Parks, Santa Cruz Native Sons Wholesale Nursery Thomas Reid Associates CA Parks OHMVR, Sacramento Ocean Trails Management Tom Dodson & Associates CalTrans, Sacramento Pestmaster Services, Bishop Tree of Life Nursery City of Mission Viejo Pleasanton Public Works UC Genetic Resources Conservation City of San Diego Parks & Recreation Redwood National Park Program City of Palm Desert Riverside County Regional Parks US Fish & Wildlife Service, Honolulu Elkhorn Native Plant Nursery S&S Seed Company Viansa Winery Huntington Library San Francisco Estuary Project Washoe-Storey Conservation District Jones & Stokes Associates San Luis Obispo Land Conservancy Western Tree Service
1999 Individual Sponsors
Lifetime Contributing Leslie Lebeau Elizabeth Crispin John Anderson Tamia Marg Gigi Hurst Steven Ash T. Charles Moore Martha Blane Arthur Morley Marian Chambers Mary Platter-Rieger Carla DAntonio Katy Pye Sustaining Robert Gilbert Cynthia Roye Connie Rutherford Peter Brastow Dave Gilpin Quentin Griffiths Cynthia Shafer Susan Cochrane Peter Slattery William McCoy Steve Hartman Sarah Jayne Stan Weidert Rosemary Jones Clarence Weinmann Fred Kramer Linda Willis
Page 14 Spring 1999 CalEPPC News CalEPPC would like to welcome the following individual and institutional members who have joined CalEPPC in the months from July through December,1999:
Bob Agazzi Pete Fabbricatore Kim Matthews Clare Schaecher Maria Alvarez Jeff Faber Loran May Ronald Schultze Jon Anderson Diane Fisher Edwin McCraken Sierra View Landscape Thor Anderson Mike Forbert Jenna Megalizzi Patrick Silva Steve Ash Ann Francis Melissa Mooney Robert Slobe Shannon Bane Ann Francis Dennis Moore Small Wilderness Area Preservation Shane Barrow Al Franklin Gretchen Morse Bonnie Smith Eva Begley Kathleen Funke-Spicher Lisa Myers Debra Smith Andrea Bennett Roman Gankin Native Sons Nursery Phil Smith Sally Bianco Sue Gardner Lydia Neilsen Jeff Smyly Pat Bily John Gerlach Vince Nyvall Harry Spilman Scott Blackburn Philip Gerrie Jason Olivetti Lisa Stallings Stephen Blaha Michael Gillogly Franklin Olmsted Curtis Stedman Kelley Brandeau Clare Tipple Golec Jean Olmsted Scott Steinmaus Andree Breaux George Gray Regena Orr Amanda Stephens Emily Briscoe Mary Ann Griggs Helen & John Ost Katrina Strathman Roy Buck Margot Griswold Barry Parker Jeanine Strickland Stacy Carlsen Eric Gunderson Ingrid Parker Mike Taylor Bob Carney Sara Headd Vivian Parker Scott Taylor Nada Carruthers Waldo Holt David Passovoy Caz Taylor Marian Chambers Donald Holtgrieve Tom Patrick The Nature Conservancy Robert Chapin Callie Hurd Don Pendleton Richard Thiel Janie Civille Wayne Johnson Gail Perez Meredith Thomsen Scott Clemons Brent Johnson Erin Perry Trisha Tierney Larry Coons Robert Jones Pestmaster Services Ricardo Trejo Karen Cotter Chase Jones Laura Petro Emma Underwood Eric Cronk Patrick Kobernus Liz Ponzini George Visger Daniel Cunning Julie & Marc Kummel Elizabeth Powell Becky Waegell Lara Cushing Kris Kuyper Scott Quinnell Michelle Wagner Sus Danner Shelli Lamb John Ranlett Tom Warner Jon Detka Rick Landon David Rawson Lisa Wayne Linda Dodge Marc Lea Thomas Reid Associates Kim Webb Linda Dodge Gretchen Lebednik Fred Rinder Sue Weis Kenny Donios Elizabeth Leger Gretchen Ring Earl Whitaker Jim Dougherty Jonathan Levine Bethallyn Black Rogers Wildlands Restoration Team Andy Dyer Leslie Lew Peggy Rose Margaret Willits Beth Dyer David Linden Justine Rosenthal John Willoughby Tom Echols Ivette Loredo Laurel Roth Carren Wilson Tanya Egan John Loux Robert Roth Mark Winkel Laura Coley Eisenberg Vanze Lum RRM Design Group Sue Worley Mark Eiswerth Barry Marlett Kerwin Russell Harry Wyeth Tish Espinosa Jenny Marr Pete Sarafian
Spring 1999 Page 15 2000 CalEPPC Membership Form If you would like to join CalEPPC, please remit your calendar dues using the form provided below. All members will receive the CalEPPC newsletter, be eligible to join CalEPPC working groups, be invited to the annual symposium and participate in selecting future board members. Your personal involvement and financial support are the keys to success. Additional contributions by present members are welcomed!
Individual Institutional Name q Low Income $15.00 N/A q Regular $30.00 Regular $100.00 q Family $40.00 Contributing $250.00 Affiliation q Contributing $50.00 Patron $500.00 q Sustaining $100.00 Sustaining $1000.00 q Lifetime $1000.00 Address Please make an additional contribution in my name to: City/State/Zip Student/Low Income membership: $ Cape Ivy Biocontrol Fund: $ Office Phone Home Phone Please make your check payable to CalEPPC and mail with this application form to: Fax email CalEPPC Membership c/o Sally Davis 32912 Calle del Tesoro * Students, please include current registration and/or class schedule San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-4227
Calendar of Events
January 27 - 29 2000 Annual Conference TWS: Field Biology in the New Century: Changing Roles of the Public and Private Sector, Riverside. Sponsored by the Western Section of the Wildlife Society. Contact Mike Morrison,
February 12-18 Society for Range Management 53rd Annual meeting: 2000 Trails to Boise, Boise, Idaho.
February 15 Sources of Elements Over Long-Term Soil Development in the Hawaiian Islands, Lecture by Peter Vitousek, Stanford University. Contact Willie Lee (650) 329-4781,
December 5-7 Protecting Watersheds Using Integrated Noxious Weed Management. Interagency Noxious Weed Symposium, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon. Contact Sherry Kudna or Tim Butler (503) 986-4621,
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