Biological Control of Leafy Spurge” Was Published by the USDA-ARS TEAM Leafy Spurge Area-Wide Integrated Pest Management Program

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL ofof LeafyLeafy SpurgeSpurge

comprehensive, easy-to-read manual on how Ato use biological control as an effective leafy spurge management tool.

A product of the USDA-ARS TEAM Leafy Spurge Area-Wide IPM Program beetles, like what they are and how they work. We’ll then move on to topics that, if used, will greatly enhance your chances of successfully incorporating biological control into your leafy spurge management plan: How to select a release site, where to obtain insects, how to release insects, how to monitor and manage Leafy Spurge advantage of a weed or insect pest through the established populations, how to collect and If you’ve had any experience with leafy spurge, use of natural enemies such as parasites, preda- redistribute biocontrol agents, and how to inte- you already know it’s a pretty tough customer. tors or pathogens. grate biological control with other leafy spurge A native of Europe and Asia, leafy spurge Introduced weed species are prime candidates management tools. emerges early in the spring and gets a head for biological control. The concept is simple: Find The key is STARTING. Biological control is start on other vegetation in a race for space, sun- natural enemies of the target weed in the weed’s not a cure-all or overnight solution, and it light, nutrients and water. Prolific seed production homeland. Such enemies are selective, or host won’t work every time in every situation. It is, and an extensive root system give the plant a specific, and well-adapted to establishing long- however, a long-term, sustainable and inex- huge competitive advantage and make consis- term relationships with the target weed that result pensive approach that should ALWAYS be The Problem tent, long-term control difficult. Deep tap roots Ð in reduced weed densities. In fact, the absence considered when formulating a leafy spurge An extensive root system, capable of storing which can exceed 20 feetintroduction in depth Ð store of natural enemies are why weeds like leafy management plan. nutrient reserves and producing numerous reserves of nutrients to see the plant through spurge flourish and spread so quickly when intro- But it won’t work unless you give it a try, shoots, makes leafy spurge extremely versatile hard times, while lateral roots form a network duced into a new environment. It’s interesting to and the sooner you try, the sooner it can start and persistent. Biological control, quite literally, that enable it to rapidly reproduce and spread. note that many weeds like leafy spurge are not working for you. gets to the root of the problem. And, perhaps worst of all, leafy spurge is highly considered a problem in their homelands, where Good luck! adaptable and can thrive in a variety of condi- natural enemies are abundant and control infes- tions and situations. tations. In short, this exotic invader is extremely com- The use of biological control is nothing new. petitive and quite The Chinese used capable of com- predatory ants to pletely displacing control insect desirable plants. pests in stored The economic foods and citrus and environmental groves more than Introduction, pages 2-3 For ¥ Can They Be Field Days, pages 17-18 impacts of leafy 2,000 years ago, ¥ Leafy Spurge ¥ Biological Harvested? ¥ A Tip ¥ A Great Tool Ð Do It! ¥ Plan spurge are signifi- and numerous Control ¥ The Goal Ahead! ¥ Date & Time ¥ Either, cant. It invades a efforts followed. A Harvesting & Redistributing, Or ¥ Who? ¥ Communications variety of land lot has been Flea Beetles, pages 4-5 pages 11, 14-15 ¥ Supplies ¥ Safety types, reduces learned since ¥ Meet the Flea Beetle ¥ Flea ¥ Harvesting • First Of All… range productivity then, but the rea- Beetle Biology ¥ Damage to ¥ Look Early, Look Often Frequently Asked Questions and species diver- sons why people Leafy Spurge ¥ When to Harvest ¥ How to (FAQs), pages 19-20 sity, threatens The Enemy were interested Harvest ¥ Sorting & Counting sensitive species, Introduced to the way back then Implementing Biological ¥Packagingcontents ¥ Storing & The Payoff, page 21 degrades wildlife Great Plains a century remain true today: habitat and ago, leafy spurge has Biocontrol is easy Control, pages 6-7 Transportation Some examples of what reduces land val- proven to be a formi- to use, inexpen- ¥ The Objective ¥ Where to happens when flea beetle ues. Infestations dable opponent. No sive, self-sustain- Get Insects ¥ Site Selection ¥ Before & After Pictures, populations explode, and of in Wyoming, type of land is immune ing, target specific Habitat Preferences ¥ pages 12-13 unmanaged leafy spurge Montana and the from infestation, and and well-suited to Releasing Insects ¥ Mark Your Examples of what biocontrol infestations Dakotas alone are rangelands are partic- incorporate with Sites!!! can potentially do for you estimated to cost ularly susceptible. other manage- TEAM Leafy Spurge, page 22 agricultural pro- ment tools. Release Site Information Evaluating Biocontrol, page 15 ¥ The “TEAM” ¥ Partnerships ducers and tax- Form, pages 8-9 ¥ Is It Working? ¥ Will It Work? ¥ The Approach ¥ The Bottom payers more than $144 million a year in produc- The Goal A field-ready form to help you • And If Not… Line tion losses, control expenses and other impacts The goal of this manual is simple: Providing to the economy. you, the rancher, landowner or land manager, record release site information with the information you need to effectively use Integration, page 16-17 For More Information, page 23 Biological Control biological control Ð specifically, leafy spurge flea Monitoring Release Sites, ¥ IPM, IPM & more IPM Contact names & numbers Biological control, or biocontrol, can be defined beetles. page 10-11 ¥ Why It Works ¥ Herbicides as a reduction in the abundance or competitive We’ll start with basic information about flea ¥ Monitoring ¥ What to Look ¥Grazing ¥ Burning ¥ Cutting Acknowledgements, back cover - 2 - - 3 - ally move to larger roots and buds or shoots as grasses and other desirable plants a chance to they develop, and progress through three larval reestablish and thrive. stages (called instars). As cool weather Flea beetles typically take several years to approaches, the larvae Ð now in the third and impact leafy spurge infestations, but the payoff final larval stage Ð move into deeper soil, where can be well worth the wait. Researchers have they spend the winter. documented leafy spurge canopy cover reductions of up to 95 percent and stem density reduc- Meet the Flea Beetle cyparissiae, A. czwalinae and A. flava Ð have not Damage to Leafy Spurge tions of 250-plus stems per square meter to Researchers have been working with leafy been as successful at establishing populations or Adult flea beetles feed on leafy spurge leaves fewer than five stems per square meter. spurge biocontrol since 1964, when the Hyles reducing leafy spurge infestations. and bracts in the summer, but the most signifi- It is important to understand that flea beetles hawk moth Ð a colorful but generally ineffective cant damage is caused by root-feeding larvae. do not eliminate leafy spurge. When flea beetles agent Ð was released. The most exciting develop- Flea Beetle Biology Feeding by the adults (see page 10 for a photo) work, they establish a natural balance with the ment in leafy spurge biocontrol, however, didn’t Flea beetles over-winter as larvae in soil near and larvae (photo below) stress the host plant, weed, reducing it to a non-impact plant and toler- occur until 1985, when the first of six Aphthona spurge roots. As soil temperatures warm up, gen- and create wounds that allow naturally occurring able member of the plant community. flea beetles was approved and used. erally in April or May, the larvae “wakes up” and soil-borne plant pathogens to invade the plant Later, in a separate section of this manual, Aphthona flea beetles, as the name implies, begins feeding on spurge roots. The larvae and cause additional damage. we’ll discuss another critically important aspect are small, flea-like beetles that feed exclusively pupates during a one- to two-week period, gen- The stress and damage caused by the adults, of biological control: The stress and damage on leafy spurge. Ranging in sizeflea from 2 to 3.5 erally inbeetles late May to mid-June, then emerges larvae and pathogens results in delayed emer- caused by biocontrol agents makes the weed far mm, flea beetles are gregarious and tend to con- from the soil as an adult. Adults live 45-65 days, gence, thinner stands, shorter and weaker more susceptible to other leafy spurge manage- gregate for feeding and during which time they feed plants, delayed maturity and flowering, and ment tools, like grazing and herbicides (see page mating. Flea beetles can on spurge leaves and stems decreased seed production. In short, the weed’s 16).That’s why biocontrol works so well when competitive advantage is reduced, giving native integrated with other management tools. and do fly, but most often lthough some variation can be and reproduce. move about by using strong Females lay eggs in the expected depending on geogra- hind legs to hop like fleas. soil near the base of leafy In well established popula- A phy, climate & seasonal condi- spurge stems. Females lay tions, adults are clearly visi- tions, elevation and other factors, the 50-500 eggs, with some ble when feeding on spurge chart below gives a good general idea variation according to in the summer. of the flea beetle life cycle. species. Eggs hatch in 14- Of the six Aphthona flea 19 days, and the newly beetle species approved emerged larvae seek out and released for leafy spurge biocontrol, two spurge roots and begin feeding. This is an have been particularly successful. A. nigriscutis, extremely sensitive life stage for the flea beetle, first released in 1989, and A. lacertosa, first and the availability of young, tender spurge roots released in 1988, have had a dramatic impact in near the surface (within the top two to three inch- some areas. Other species Ð A. abdominalis, A. es of topsoil) is critical to survival. Larvae gradu-

The Cycle A. nigriscutis (upper left) and A. lacertosa (lower right) are the all-stars of leafy spurge biocontrol efforts. Adult flea beetles, like the nigriscutis and lacertosa pictured, feed on spurge leaves in the summer (see page 10 for a picture of adults feeding on leaves), then lay eggs in mid- to late summer. Larvae hatch from the eggs (small photo, left) and feed on spurge roots (upper right) until fall, then overwinter in the soil around spurge roots. In the spring, larvae resume feeding on spurge roots, pupate (small photo, right), then emerge as adults ready to continue the life cycle. Flea beetles spend about 80 percent of their lives underground.

- 4 - - 5 - ¥ Exposure/Aspect: Flea beetles generally do factors, the best time generally ranges from mid- best on south facing slopes. North-facing slopes June to mid-July. If flea beetles are released too should be avoided as starting points. Some slope late in the season, they may not lay enough eggs to provide drainage also enhances the site. to sustain a population the following year. ¥ Shade: Flea beetles are sun lovers, so avoid ¥ How Many?: More is always better. Ten densely shaded areas as starting points. Flea years ago, researchers used small releases beetles will work their way into shady, moist because flea beetles were not readily available. The Objective beetles are usually free and easy to obtain, DO areas, but such areas are not good places to try Since then, hands-on experience has shown that This section focuses on obtaining insects, NOT let a perceived problem with availability pre- and start a population. large releases are more likely to produce an selecting release sites, and releasing flea beetles vent you from trying biological control. Be persist- Obviously, you established population. Ð it is, without a doubt, the most important part of ent Ð if you don’t find flea beetles with your first won’t be able to satis- Each “drop” should con- this manual. While there are no techniques to attempt, try again. fy all of these require- General Habitat Preferences sist of at least 1,000 guarantee that flea beetles will work, following See page 19 for a list of names and numbers ments all of the time. Look For: Avoid: flea beetles. Avoid scat- these simple guidelines will greatly enhance your that might be helpful when trying to find insects. But satisfying as • South facing slopes • North facing slopes tering or sprinkling Ð chances of successfully establishing a popula- The TEAM Leafy Spurge web site at many as possible will • Sunny & dry • Shady & moist remember, flea beetles tion. And… http://www.team.ars.usda.gov also features infor- help increase your • Moderate patches • Dense patches are gregarious, and …Establishment is the absolute key to suc- mation on obtaining insects. chances of success- • Shallow lateral roots • Deep lateral roots concentrating releases cess. Although biocontrolimplementing generally takes time to fully getting a popula- • Loamy soils • Sandy soils makes it easier for produce results, significant reductions in leafy Site Selection tion established. males and females to spurge densities have been achieved in as little Choosing good release sites is the most find each other when as two to three years when flea beetles quickly important aspect of using biological control. By Habitat Specific Habitat Preferences it’s time to mate. In • Brown/A. nigriscutis: Likes sunny sites that some cases, making establish large populations. planning ahead and choosing good sites, you Preferences are warm & dry. Prefers lighter soils & hilly So, if you’re going to read just one section of can eliminate many common obstacles to flea Different flea bee- slopes. Does best in spurge less than 18 inches one drop of 10,000 flea this manual, this is it! beetle establishment and help tles have different tall. beetles may be more the insects get off to a good habitat preferences, • Black/A. lacertosa: Will tolerate cooler, productive than 10 Where to Get Insects eep in mind that dates sug- start. but there is some moister sites, some shade & denser stands of drops of 1,000 each. overlap between the ¥ Multiple releases: One of the most commonly gested in this manual (for There are several points to spurge. Will work on hills & more likely to work asked questions about biolog- consider when selecting a species. in draws. Dropping 1,000+ ical control is, “Where can I K monitoring, harvesting, release site, with most revolv- Here’s a brief sum- insects every 25 yards get flea beetles?” releasing, etc.) are intended as ing around flea beetle habitat mary of habitat pref- in a grid pattern, for There are usually several general guidelines only. The flea preferences. Here’s some of erences for the two most successful species. example Ð has worked very well at some heavily ways to get flea beetles, but beetle life cycle in your area may the most important topics. ¥ A. nigriscutis Ð Prefers warmer, drier sites infested sites. This technique appears to increase it’s best to start by looking vary from these guidelines, so it’s ¥ Soil type: Flea beetles do and lighter soils. Works well on hills, which gen- the chances for quick population establishment locally. Flea beetles from local best to check with local experts to best in loam, silt loam, silt erally have shorter leafy spurge. and spurge repression. sources may be better adapt- clay, clay loam, clay, and ¥ A. lacertosa Ð Has a broader range of toler- make sure your leafy spurge bio- ed to local conditions, and sandy loam soils. Sandy soils, ances than A. nigriscutis. Can tolerate cooler, Mark Your Sites! won’t have to be stored long control efforts are being properly and soil types that do not moister sites with some shade and denser Although it is not an absolutely necessary, or transported far prior to timed. allow the formation of shallow stands of leafy spurge. marking your release sites is strongly recom- release. Many county weed roots, are not favorable to If possible, try to start with the species that mended. Knowing the exact location of release officers and Extension agents establishment. best fits your release sites. It’s possible you won’t sites makes it easier for you to monitor establish- have information about local sources, and in ¥ Shallow roots: Shallow roots (top two to have a choice, however, and will have to take ment success and reductions in leafy spurge some cases, may be involved with local field day three inches of topsoil) should be present to what’s available. If that’s the case, try to pick densities. activities that provide opportunities to get insects improve flea beetle establishment. release sites that fit the species you have. The easiest way to mark sites is by erecting a as well as information. ¥ Soil moisture: Well drained soils are best. One technique that has worked well is making steel or fiberglass fence post at the release point, If you have trouble finding insects locally, most Avoid areas that are subject to spring flooding or releases of more than one species. Different flea then marking the location on a map (aerial topo- state departments of agriculture have noxious prolonged periods of standing water. beetles often work well together, and this tech- graphic and plat maps work well). Some people weed and/or biological control specialists who ¥ Density: Moderate (60-90 stems per square nique can help determine which species will also use a GPS device to determine latitude and can provide information. Another possible source yard) densities of spurge are best. Infestations work best for your situation. longitude. of information is USDA-APHIS Plant Protection & that are too dense may retard larval development Taking “before and after” photos is also a good Quarantine offices (every state has one). in the spring and inhibit adult activity. Places Releasing Insects idea. The photos will provide a site-by-site visual Commercial operators who collect and sell bio- where you most want or need control may not After picking the best possible release sites, chronology of your leafy spurge biocontrol pro- logical control agents provide another option. be the best places to make an initial release Ð there are two main points to consider: When and gram. Be consistent Ð take your photos from the Collectors can ship or deliver beetles, and in flea beetles will eventually work their way into how many? same place every year, and at the same time of some cases, will even pick release sites, make dense stands, but it’s best to start in patches with ¥ When?: In order to establish a population, year (the same day if possible). The before and the releases and mark the sites. moderate densities, on the edges of dense flea beetles must be released before they have after photos on pages12 & 13 provide good It’s a good idea to start lining up your flea bee- stands, or on hill sides up-slope from heavily laid all of their eggs. While there is some varia- examples of how photos can help document your tles well before they are needed. Although flea infested draws and drainages. tion depending on geography, weather and other program. - 6 - - 7 - Using this “Flea Beetle Release Site Information Form” is not a requirement for using biological control, but it is a good idea. Using the form will allow you to keep track of your sites and compare success F l e a B e e t l e R e l e a s e F o r m “ C h e a t S h e e t ” between different sites. It will also get you thinking about the kinds of things that make a good release site. In addition, information on the form might help identify Things to “Release Site Information Form” and factors that are limiting your success with biocontrol. Remember The“Cheat Sheet” are designed to provide You might want to consider taking pictures of all your release sites and attaching you with an easy way to keep track of your them to these forms, then keeping a file of the forms. That way, you’ll have permanent 1. Have your release sites picked out release sites and with a few quick tips to keep written and photographic records of your release sites. To use: Copy this form at 145 percent on 8.5x11 inch paper. BEFORE you get flea beetles. in mind as you head to the field to release 2. Things to think about when picking leafy spurge flea beetles. release sites include... Flea Beetle Release Site Information ...Sunny, warm and dry is better ¥ Site location: than shady, cool and moist! ¥ Township/section/range: ... Dense patches of spurge are not ¥ Latitude & longitude (if known): good places to make releases. It’s bet- ¥ Release date: Number released: ter to make releases on the edges of ¥ Species of flea beetle released: O A. lacertosa (black) O A. nigriscutis (brown) O Mixed dense patches, or at thin spots inside ¥ Date collected/obtained: of dense patches. ¥ Where collected/obtained? ...South facing slopes are better ¥ New release site? O yes O no than north facing slopes. ...Avoid areas that are prone to ¥ If no, list date & type of insects used in previous release(s): Note how the flea beetles are moving from the outside into a standing water. dense patch of spurge. The point is simple:The places where you 3. Don’t wait until the last minute to Physical Characteristics Cultural Characteristics Biological Characteristics most want and need good control – i.e., the really dense, ugly find a source for flea beetles. If possi- patches – are not good places to try and get a population ¥ Elevation = ¥ Current land use ¥ Spurge Height ble, have your source lined up several started. Release your flea beetles on the edges of dense patches O Pasture/grazing O .25 meter O .5 meter and give them a chance to work their way in. ¥ Soil Type O Recreational O 1 Meter O > 1 meter weeks before you want to collect and O Sandy O Loamy sand O Roadside/right of way/etc. redistribute. O Loam/sandy loam O Silt loam O Idle cropland ¥ Spurge density 4. Once you get your flea beetles, release O Silty Clay Loam O Silty Clay O Other: O 0-25 stems/meter squared O 26-100 stems/meter squared them AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. It’s a ¥ Soil Drainage O 100+ stems/meter squared good idea to keep your flea beetles in O Well-drained Other Control Efforts O Moderately well-drained ¥ Size of Infestation a cooler with blue ice until they can O Poorly drained ¥ Herbicides O One acre or less be released. O Applied within last two years? O 1-10 acres ¥ Topographic Position O Applied within last 10 years? O 10 or more acres 5. Things to think about when releasing O Upper slope O Back slope O Herbicides used: flea beetles include... O Toe slope O Riparian ¥ Vegetation Type – More is ALWAYS better. Try to O Upland O Draw slope O Prairie/grassland release a minimum of 1,000 flea bee- O Draw bottom O Flood plain O Shrub/grassland This is an extremely dense – but not uncommon – leafy ¥ Other treatments in last two O Woodland/grassland tles at each “drop.” ¥ Risk of Spring Flooding years: O Other spurge infestation. In situations like this, it’s best to look for O None O Low to moderate O Grazing? – Don’t scatter or sprinkle! openings (like those marked with the red arrow) in dense patch- O High O Standing water? O Cattle? ¥ Other Vegetation Present (list if – Make releases as early in the es to make flea beetle releases. Some people have had success O Sheep and/or goats? known): by cutting a “hole” in heavy patches of spurge several weeks ¥ Annual Precipitation O Mowing? season as possible so females can lay O < 10 inches O 10-15 inches O Burning? eggs at the new release site. prior to releasing flea beetles. O 15-20 inches O > 20 inches O Insecticides?

- 8 - - 9 - occur between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. rocks, sticks, etc., in the net. The best way to determine if a population can ¥ Make 1-10 sweeps, then stop to count the be harvested is by sweeping and counting. number of flea beetles in the sweep net. Here’s how: If you are able to collect 1-2 flea beetles per ¥ Select a day with favorable conditions. sweep (or about 500 in five minutes), then the ¥ Make sweeps at original release points and site can be harvested. in areas with signs of flea beetle activity. Monitoring year’s plants) may be all that remains inside the ¥ Using a standard 15-inch sweep net, walk at A Tip Monitoring release sites will enable you to crater. a comfortable pace while sweeping with broad, If you don’t find flea beetles at the original determine if flea beetles are established, and if ¥ Larvae can be observed in the late spring/ arcing strokes. Sweep only the top half of the release site, look around. Flea beetles some- they can be harvested and used to start popula- early summer around leafy spurge roots and vegetation Ð this will save wear and tear on your times move from the original release site to a tions at new release sites. Monitoring consists of shoots. To look for larvae, find a spurge plant that sweep net and will result in less plant debris, more preferable location. identifying areas that show signs of flea beetle looks less than healthy, then dig its roots up. You activity and assessing populations. might be able to see the small, white larvae in Remember, flea beetles are a resource, and and around the roots. Searching for larvae can should be managed as a resource. A small be tedious unless populations are high. investment of time for monitoring and managing Adult Activity: The easiest way to look for your “herd” will ultimately pay bigmonitoring dividends Ð adult activity is by sweeping at and around your you’ll be able to harvest insects and move them release sites Ð if flea beetles are present, you’ll around to start new sites, resulting in quicker be able to sweep them up. Adults and feeding Harvesting harvest, start monitoring your sites early in the reductions of leafy damage may also be Since flea beetles are generally slow to move season. Check periodically Ð every three days or spurge across a wide visible. Light feeding from initial release sites to new areas, you’ll want so, for example Ð to see exactly when your flea area. appears as pitting or to help them out by harvesting beetles from beetles start to emerge. Once you’ve determined “shot holing” of established sites and moving them to new sites. that flea beetles are emerging, you can begin What to Look leaves, while heavy Harvesting and redistributing flea beetles is an your harvest and redistribution efforts. For feeding results in important part of managing your flea beetles Ð In short, check early and check often to There are two ragged, shredded the more sites you have, the more likely you’ll be avoid any potential harvest loss. things to look for leaves. Heavy feeding to see significant reductions of leafy spurge. when monitoring is a sure sign of a When to Harvest release sites: well established pop- First of All... harvestingThe recommended harvest period for most of Damage caused by ulation. Once you’ve determined that there are enough the Great Plains is mid-June to mid-July, with larvae, and damage flea beetles to harvest, DO NOT DELAY!! Flea some variation depending on soil temperatures, caused by adults. Can They Be beetles sometimes reproduce so rapidly and geography and other factors. Harvesting during Larval Activity: Harvested? reduce patches of spurge this period will ensure that Symptoms of larval Assessing popula- so drastically that popula- you are collecting flea activity are most A Sure Sign... tions to determine if tions crash. Don’t be beetles and getting them noticeable in the of larval activity (above) is scraggly looking flea beetles can be concerned about over- to new release sites in spring or early sum- plants, thinning stands and lots of dead cane harvested should harvesting Ð there will time to lay plenty of eggs. mer a year or more from the previous year. Evidence of adult activity begin shortly after always be enough beetles If you harvest late in the after making the ini- (below) includes ragged, pitted leaves, stem adults emerge, and left to maintain the popu- season, increasing the tial release. These damage and, of course, large numbers of adult should continue lation. number of beetles symptoms are most flea beetles. through the month of released at each site can noticeable in circles, July. Look Early & Often help increase the number called “craters,” at or Optimal weather To maximize your of eggs laid the following near the original conditions for assess- efforts, you’ll want to start spring. release point. ing populations harvesting flea beetles as The same guidelines Symptoms of larval include warm to hot soon as possible after used for assessing popu- activity include: temperatures, sun- they emerge. Emergence Sweeping lations can be used for ¥ Stunted leafy shine, dry vegetation, will vary depending on If you can collect harvesting. The perfect spurge plants. and calm to light geography, climate and two or more flea day will be warm to hot ¥ Reduced or winds. Flea beetles other environmental fac- beetles per with plenty of sunshine, delayed spring emer- will be much more tors, and from year to sweep, your pop- dry conditions and calm to gence, and delayed difficult to catch on year and site to site, so ulation can be light winds. flowering. cold, wet, windy or monitoring to see when harvested. Flea beetles will be ¥ Thinning stands. cloudy days. they are emerging is Sweep, check much more difficult to har- In some cases, dead Favorable conditions extremely important. and repeat! vest on cold, wet, windy cane (stems from last are most likely to To avoid losing potential continued on page 14 - 10 - - 11 - Bridger Mountains, Montana Ward County, North Dakota Before/1993 Before/1998

These before and after pictures The Story: Decades of control N.D. New landowners wanted to try provide good examples of what can efforts with various herbicides were biological control, and released flea happen when flea beetles success- unsuccessful on this island, but beetles in 1998 (one release of fully establish a population. Note that Aphthona lacertosa completely elim- 10,000 flea beetles at each of the the five sites pictured vary widely in inated spurge in just a few years.The red flags). The site was monitored regard to geography, soil type, mois- flea beetles were so successful, in and assessed in 1999; moderate ture, etc. fact, that their population crashed Ð numbers of flea beetles were found ÐÐÐÐÐ after harvesting good numbers of but not collected. These photos pro- 1 flea beetles in 1994, researchers vide a great example of what multi- After/1995 1 Site: Bridger Mountains, Montana returned in 1995 only to discover ple releases can do. After/1999 Habitat: High elevation, high mois- that the flea beetles (and spurge) ÐÐÐÐÐ 3 befoture forest rew ere &gone! after4 The Story: Aphthona nigriscutis was ÐÐÐÐÐ Site: Valley City, North Dakota released in 1994 and quickly elimi- 3 Habitat: Prairie grassland with nated spurge on a hillside inter- Site: Ward County, North Dakota heavy clay soil spersed with grass and conifers. Habitat: Prairie grassland with The Story:Hundreds of millions of ÐÐÐÐÐ heavy clay soil flea beetles have been collected at 2 The Story: A previous landowner this famous site in the Katie Olson Site: Forget Me Not Lake, Minn. had battled spurge for 15 years with National Wildlife Refuge, which was Habitat: Low elevation prairie grass- a mixture of Tordon and 2, 4-d at this started with a release of just 80 land, moist soil site, located 10 miles west of Minot, insects in 1988.

ancher Glenn Rugg, who runs cattle Forget Me Not Lake, Minnesota R on a 14,000 acre spread in Fallon Fallon County, Montana Valley City, N.D. Before/1994 County, Montana, has tried everything to Before/1992 Before/1993 control leafy spurge. After buying his ranch in 1941, Rugg quickly realized he had a problem. “When I looked down the road 20 or 30 years, I could see that spurge was going to take my place over

After/1995 After/1997 2 After/1995 4 and put me out of business,” Rugg says. Now, after 50 years of fighting leafy spurge, Rugg is a firm believer in biocontrol. “I’m sold,” he says. “A lot of people want spurge to disappear tomorrow, but that isn’t going to happen. Flea beetles may take a while, but they’re a permanent, long-term and low cost solution.”

- 12 - - 13 - good seams, fold the top three or four times, then Storing & Transportation Sorting tape or staple the top to prevent escape. Un- The most important thing to keep in mind while Sorting flea beetles allows you to remove Unsorted waxed paper cans or cups also work well, but storing and transporting your flea beetles to a weed seeds and other debris from your sweep are more expensive. new release site is DO IT QUICKLY!!!! net collections, but is not a requirement. The Plastic containers, like milk jugs, should be Containers should be stored in a cool, dry mesh-type sorter (left) requires about an hour avoided, as condensation can build up and dam- place out of direct sunlight. A cooler with blue ice of time and $25 to $30 in materials to build; age the flea beetles. is a good idea if the beetles are going to be simpler devices can be constructed from PVC Regardless of the type of container used, fill it pipe or cardboard canisters. Another advan- stored for a couple of hours or longer. If you’re 1/3 to 1/2 full with leafy spurge vegetation (no tage is that sorted, or using a cooler, make sure paper bags or contain- “clean,” flea beetles roots, and definitely no seeds!) for the flea bee- ers don’t get wet. can be easily counted Sorted tles to perch and feed on during transportation. Flea beetles should ALWAYS be released as (left) Ð 10 ccs or mls is Again, make sure the container is sealed tight soon as possible after they’ve been harvested. about 1,000 beetles. and stapled or taped to prevent escape. And They can, however, be stored overnight under Sorting & counting don’t punch any air holes!!! moderate refrigeration (40-45 degrees). makes it easier to keep track of how many flea beetles you are releasing. days, but you may not have a choice. If you have counting takes a little extra time, but offers some to harvest on a cold, wet windy day, you’ll have benefits: It reduces the chances of moving leafy to work a lot harder, as the flea beetles will be spurge and other weed seeds to a new area, and Is It Working? ment. Burning, mowing, grazing and herbicides lower on plants. It’s best to avoid such days if you can count your flea beetles. Reductions in spurge density will depend on can be used to reduce spurge densities enough possible. A simple sorting device can be easily con- the flea beetles and their ability to prosper under to give flea beetles a chance to establish (see Harvest on as many days as possible during structed by drilling several 3/16th-inch holes in a the soil types, moisture and weather conditions, pages 16 & 17 for more details). the recommended harvest period. piece of PVC tube (12 to 18 inches long) with and plant densities at the sites where they were Point is, don’t give up on flea beetles until removable end caps. Using the sorter is just as released. How quickly reductions occur will you’ve evaluated your program, identified poten- How to Harvest easy: Remove a cap, empty your sweep net con- depend on these and other factors as well as the tial barriers and made an effort to eliminate those ¥ Use a strong sweep net with a stiff frame. tents into the tube, replace the cap, then put the number of beetles released and number of barriers. Although there is no exact number, ¥ Sweep with a firm stroke and broad arc while tube in a laundry bag, pillow case or other light- releases made. Results may be observed as research and hands-on experience has shown walking at a comfortable pace. This will prevent colored fabric bag. The sun-loving flea beetles quickly as a year after the initial release, but sig- that flea beetles will be successful, at least to flea beetles from falling or jumping off of plants will climb toward the light and out through the nificant reductions generally do not evaluatingoccur for some degree, more often than not. before you can sweep them up. Again, sweep holes while other insects and debris are left three to five years. only the top half of the vegetation to save wear behind. Remove the tube after 20-30 minutes, And If Not... and tear on your sweep net, and to minimize the and you’ll be left with a bag of “clean” flea bee- Will It Work? It is, of course, possible that flea beetles will collection of plant debris, etc. tles. The TEAM Leafy Spurge web site at Keep in mind that flea beetles will not always simply not produce the results you want at the ¥ Periodically dump the contents of your sweep http://www.team.ars.usda.gov shows diagrams be successful. Following the guidelines in this site in question. They might not work well enough net into a cloth bag, pillowcase or a bucket with a for constructing a tube sorter as well as the pop- manual, especially for site selection, will greatly to control spurge on their own, or they might not lid. ular “funnel” sorter. enhance chances of success, but there’s always work at all. ¥ Sweep areas with leafy spurge, and look for Counting is also relatively easy, and will enable a chance that flea beetles might not work. If you find yourself in this situation, it is impor- other potentially good areas as well. Pay special you to know how many flea beetles you are Sites that aren’t living up to your expectations tant to take some sort of management action. attention to areas with dead cane Ð such areas releasing. Plastic 35 mm film containers work in terms of leafy spurge repression should be Leafy spurge won’t go away by ignoring it, and may have had such high numbers of larvae that great Ð a film container one-quarter of the way carefully evaluated to identify possible remedies. the problem will only get worse with time. At this no new shoots were produced, and flea beetles full is about 1,000 flea beetles. Other small con- First off, you need to determine if biocontrol is point, you need to evaluate what tools can be may emerge from these areas in enormous num- tainers can also be used, with 10 cc or 10 ml going to work at the site in question. It’s possible used to most effectively and affordably provide bers. equaling about 1,000 beetles. that changing one or more of the implementation relief against leafy spurge infestations. ¥ Sweep an area once, then let it sit undis- techniques might help improve flea beetle estab- Don’t be afraid to seek input from outside turbed for 5-15 minutes before sweeping again. Packaging lishment. Perhaps the initial release was made in sources, especially from people who may have This will give flea beetles that fell to the ground a If you plan on moving flea beetles long dis- a patch of spurge that is too dense or shady, or had similar experiences. Consult with neighbors chance to climb back up on vegetation. tances, you’ll need to think about packaging. maybe the insects were harvested too late in the or other ranchers who have had leafy spurge The least expensive way to package flea bee- season. Maybe supplemental releases, or releas- problems, and with experts from county Sorting & Counting tles is with a paper bag. Lunch bags work well for es of a different species, will help “jump start” the Extension Services and weed control offices. Sweep net collections can be dumped in a bag small quantities of flea beetles, and grocery population. Make a few phone calls. Learn about the other or bucket and moved to new release sites as is, sacks work well for larger quantities. Flea beetles In some cases, site characteristics can be options that are available. or can be sorted and counted. Sorting and are escape artists Ð make sure the bags have manipulated to improve flea beetle establish- But no matter what you do, DON’T GIVE UP! - 14 - - 15 - cattle grazing operations. be conducted from mid-May through mid-August Studies have shown that biocontrol and multi- to avoid interference with the adult phase of the species grazing can be an extremely effective flea beetle life cycle. combination. Sheep grazing reduces spurge densities, giving flea beetles improved chances of Cutting establishing large populations. The end result can Mowing and cutting are other ways to manipu- be impressive: less spurge, more grass, healthier, late a release site in order to provide more favor- IPM, IPM and more IPM Herbicides more diverse rangelands and fatter cows. able conditions for flea beetle establishment. The Under ideal circumstances, biological control Herbicides are the most commonly used leafy concept is the same as with herbicides and graz- will maintain leafy spurge densities below eco- spurge management tool, and are the preferred Burning ing: Reducing the density of stands and opening nomically significant levels. Ideal circumstances, tool for containing/preventing the spread of infes- Prescribed burns can be used to enhance flea up the spurge canopy will help promote estab- however, are not always possible, and flea bee- tations and for eradicating new invasive weeds. beetle establishment by reducing spurge densi- lishment. Some people have had good success tles aren’t going to work every time at every site. Unfortunately, herbicides are generally expensive ties and removing ground litter that can inhibit by cutting down patches of spurge in dense In these situations, integrating biocontrol with Ð use on large infestations may not be economi- establishment. Burns should be performed in the stands a few weeks before releasing flea beetles. other management tools, or simply using other cally feasible Ð and non-selective. In addition, fall, after flea beetles reproduce, or early in the Mowing and cutting can also be used, of tools, may be required. herbicide use may be restricted by environmental spring so that leafy spurge top growth is avail- course, to prevent leafy spurge from setting In short, despite its great potential, biological regulations or inaccessibility to infestations. able for emerging flea beetles. Burns should not seed. control is not a “silver bullet.” Thereintegration are no cure- Research has shown that herbicides and bio- alls for leafy spurge Ð logical control can be no single tool will complementary if work every time in properly used. Timing every situation. is the most important The solution is factor. Fall applica- Integrated Pest tions (after Aug. 15) Management, which are compatible with combines, or inte- flea beetle survival, A Great Tool - Do It! and you’re good to go. A mid-morning or early grates, different tools and can enhance This section is for Extension agents, weed afternoon event will give local participants a to provide more population establish- supervisors, land managers and others who are chance to release their flea beetles the same effective leafy spurge ment. Spring and interesting in setting up leafy spurge biocontrol day. Make sure to stress proper overnight stor- control than any sin- summer applications, field day activities. Field days are a great way to: age techniques to those who have to travel and gle tool could pro- however, will remove ¥ Provide hands-on experience with tech- are unable to release their flea beetles the same duce. It’s a technique the top growth need- niques for collecting/packaging/redistributing flea day (see “Storing & Transportation” on page 15). that offers many It really works ed by adult flea bee- beetles, for monitoring flea beetle populations It’s always best to emphasize, however, that flea advantages; most TEAM Leafy Spurge demonstrations have shown tles to complete their and for evaluating flea beetle release sites, beetles should be released as quickly as possi- importantly, it gives that IPM plans utilizing biocontrol, multi-species life cycle, and should ¥ Provide leafy spurge flea beetles. ble to ensure viability. landowners and land thus be avoided. field days grazing with cattle and sheep (above and below) ¥ Provide information on biocontrol and IPM. And once again, it’s a good idea to have a managers the flexibil- It should be Well-planned field days get people involved back-up plan in case you get rained out. and herbicides (right) ity needed to devise stressed that herbi- and generally work very well. The point is, DO IT! the best approach for can provide extremely cide use SHOULD effective Ð and affordable Either, Or a specific situation. NOT BE ABAN- Plan Ahead! There are two basic types of field days: A sim- Ð leafy spurge control. DONED because The key to a successful field day is planning ple distribution, and a “hands-on” distribution. Why It Works you’re using biologi- ahead, and there are several things to consider With a simple distribution, flea beetles are col- IPM works cal control. Using months before the event. lected and packaged in advance, then given to because it combines herbicides to contain One of the most important considerations is participants. It’s quick, can be incorporated with the best elements of patches of spurge knowing where to get your insects. Successful site tours or other informational activities, and different tools. while flea beetles are sites from previous years should be productive eliminates the potential for a rain-out. If you’re In most IPM sce- establishing will result unless leafy spurge densities have been reduced planning a simple distribution, you’ll need to have narios, traditional in quicker resolution enough to limit flea beetle populations. Have plenty of help to collect, sort and package flea tools Ð like herbi- of your problem. some back-up harvest sites just in case. beetles prior to the event. cides, grazing or mowing Ð are used to reduce In a “hands-on” event, participants will do the spurge densities and open up the canopy, Grazing Date &Time work themselves Ð they’ll collect, sort and pack- enhancing population establishment and giving Multi-species grazing can be used to control Field days should be scheduled during the rec- age their own flea beetles, or be given a specific flea beetles a chance to build the numbers need- leafy spurge while improving range health and ommended harvest period, and early enough so task in an “assembly line.” The advantage is that ed for spurge control. In addition, the stress and increasing ranch profitability. It may sound too that female flea beetles will have time to lay plen- it gives participants a hands-on opportunity to damage caused by one tool weakens the target, good to be true, but it’s nothing new Ð sheep and ty of eggs at the new release site. learn about techniques like sweeping, sorting, making it more susceptible to damage caused by goats eat leafy spurge, and when properly man- As for the time, follow the guidelines for har- packaging, etc. It also eliminates the need to col- other tools. aged, can provide an excellent complement to vesting: Give the morning dew a chance to dry, lect flea beetles prior to the event. - 16 - - 17 - Who? restricted events. You’ll also need to Your communication decide if your event efforts should include is open to the public all of the necessary or restricted to invit- information: 1) Date(s) ed or pre-registered and time(s), with infor- participants only. mation about back-up This decision will plans in case of bad Q Ð Where do flea beetles come from? shown that Aphthona flea beetles are very host- depend on landown- weather; 2) Duration A Ð Aphthona flea beetles are natives of specific and feed only on a narrow range of hosts er cooperation, per- of event; 3) Directions Europe and Asia, and are widely dispersed restricted to the spurge family. sonnel available to to the site; 4) Supplies across a large geographic area Ð they’re found as For a step-by-step description of the quarantine help with the event, that will be provided; far east as China and as far west as France. and host-specificity testing process, see the the number of 5) Supplies partici- There is also a North American leafy spurge flea TEAM Leafy Spurge web site at insects available and pants need to bring; beetle, but it appears to have little impact. http://www.team.ars.usda.gov/ needed, and other Field Days... and 6) Species of flea Ironically, leafy spurge is generally not a prob- factors. Again, there ...are a great way to assemble crowds (above), beetles available. lem in its native lands, where flea beetles and Q Ð What about other biocontrol agents? are advantages and distribute insects and provide information. other enemies maintain infestations at economi- A Ð To date, 15 different insects (including six disadvantages: A Planning ahead is important! For example, you’ll Supplies faqs cally unimportant levels. In fact, entomologists Aphthona flea beetles) have been tested, restricted event want to make sure participants come prepared to The following list of looking for new biocontrol agents overseas often approved and released for biological control of allows you to regu- store and transport their insects in coolers with supplies is recom- have difficulty finding large patches of spurge. leafy spurge. Significant success at controlling late the number of blue ice (below). mended for field day leafy spurge, however, has been achieved by only people on a site and events. Depending Q Ð Will flea beetles eat crops or other eco- the A. nigriscutis and A. lacertosa flea beetles. plan for a specific upon resources avail- nomically valuable plants if they run out of Other insects have either failed to establish popu- number of insects; a able, you may provide leafy spurge? lations, or have established limited populations public event elimi- some supplies your- A Ð No. All imported biocontrol agents, includ- that have not had a significant impact on spurge nates the chance for self with participants ing Aphthona flea beetles, are quarantined and infestations. forgetting interested responsible for other rigorously tested before being imported and Following are brief descriptions for a few of the parties. supplies. Make sure released. If any potential for damage to crops or other leafy spurge biocontrol agents. You’ll have to participants know economically important plants is identified during The long-horned beetle (Oberea erythrocepha- decide which type of what they need to this extensive process, the candidate agent will la) and clear-winged moth (Chamaesphecia spp.) event works best for bring in advance of not be approved or imported. This process has are “stem-miners” that cause damage in two you, and more the event. importantly, your tar- ¥ Sweep nets get audience. If par- ¥ Pillowcases or bags Other Biocontrol ticipants don’t have ¥ Paper bags/cartons agents... much experience ¥ Stapler, staples, tape ...for leafy spurge include with biocontrol, a ¥ Sorting devices two “stem miners,” the hands-on event is a ¥ Measuring vials clear-winged moth (Cham- good idea. A simple ¥ Coolers, blue ice aesphecia carassicornus, distribution is easier if participants already have ¥ Educational materials ¥ Record keeping system upper left) and the long- a good understanding of biocontrol. ¥ Drinking water, first aid kit & cell phone horned beetle (Oberea ery- throcephala, right). These Communications Safety insects lay eggs in leafy Communications is an important part of your Field day organizers should be prepared for spurge stems; larvae hatch event, and there are several things to consider. any mishaps that may occur. Here are a few then cause damage by bur- ¥ Make sure you coordinate your event with the things to keep in mind: rowing down the stem and appropriate landowners or land managers! Ask 1. Heat exhaustion, sunburn Ð Drink plenty of into the root crown to feed. The about any rules that may exist (avoiding certain water, wear a hat and use sunscreen. tiny gall midge (Spurgia esula) areas or driving off of roads, for example), and 2. Wood ticks Ð Wear light colored clothing, causes a different kind of dam- make sure rules are followed at the event. tuck pants into socks and check frequently for age: It lays eggs in leafy spurge • It’s a good idea to inform neighbors so that ticks. Insect repellent can help discourage ticks flower bracts, causing a gall, there are no surprises. and mosquitos, but should be used with care lower left, to form and prevent seed production. While these ¥ Make sure your target audience knows about when sorting or packaging flea beetles. agents have generally not produced significant spurge control, your event. Newspapers, radio stations, exten- 3. Leafy spurge latex Ð Is an irritant. Don’t rub their long-term impact is not yet known. Researchers hope the sion bulletins and posters/flyers are helpful for your eyes if you have latex on your hands. impact of these and other insects will increase as control efforts advertising public events. Postcards, phone calls 4. Remember, cell phones are necessary in reduce spurge densities. or direct contact might be more appropriate for case of emergencies! - 18 - - 19 - ways: Adults lay eggs in stems, then the larvae ranchers and land mangers let populations go hatch and burrow down the stem Ð weakening the unharvested in 1999, thinking it would provide comes when flea beetle stem and stressing the plant Ð and into the root more flea beetles for the following year. Many of populations explode and crown, where they feed and cause additional those populations, however, wiped out their food take out the spurge. damage. Oberea could potentially be important in source by eliminating patches of spurge. Those T h e p a y o f f These photos were moist, sandy soils where flea beetles don’t work populations subsequently crashed, and there taken in June 2000 at a TEAM Leafy Spurge well. The gall midge (Spurgia esula) is a tiny gnat weren’t any beetles to harvest at those sites in study site near Sentinel Butte, N.D. Ð a site that that lays its eggs in leafy spurge flowers, which the summer of 2000 Ð the spurge was gone, and three years earlier was nearly as bad as the produces a gall that prevents seed production. so were the beetles. The lesson: Manage your photos shown below. 1) The spurge was cov- While these agents have generally not pro- flea beetles as a commodity Ð move them ered with flea beetles, which were completely duced significant spurge control, their long-term around and work to establish new sites! defoliating some plants within hours. Large impact is not yet known. Some might play impor- patches of dense spurge disappeared in a span tant roles in certain situations or when used in Q Ð How large of a patch of spurge is need- of 3-4 weeks. 2) TLS program coordinator Chad combination with other agents. ed for flea beetles? Prosser surveys the results of a grid release In addition, researchers are always looking for A Ð This is a common, but difficult to answer, made in 1999. All of the spurge Ð and most of 1 new biocontrol agents, particularly those that can question. Flea beetles can establish populations the flea beetles Ð seen in the picture will be fill niches or habitats not occupied by agents that on small patches of spurge (a half-acre or less), gone next year. 3) Larval feeding killed this plant are currently available. but may eliminate such patches and be unable to before it could produce maintain a population. Generally speaking, a seed. 4) A close-up of A. Q Ð Where do I get flea beetles? moderate to dense patch of spurge, a half-acre or lacertosa and one lone A Ð This is a very common question. As men- more in size, is needed to establish AND main- A. nigriscutis working on tioned earlier, it’s always best to start looking tain a population. a spurge plant. Note the locally. Flea beetles obtained from local sources On a related topic, scattered patches are OK ragged, pitted leaves won’t have to be stored and transported far, and but scattered plants aren’t – flea beetles cannot and extensive stem dam- are more likely to be adapted to local conditions. establish or sustain a population on scattered age. If you are unable to locate local sources plants. through your county Extension agent or weed officer, contact your state department of agriculture Q Ð Can I spray over flea beetles with herbi- or nearest USDA-APHIS PPQ office. Phone num- cides? bers for potential sources of insects can be found A Ð As mentioned in the manual, herbicides on page 19 and on the TEAM Leafy Spurge web and flea beetles can be used together. In fact, site at http://www.team.ars.usda.gov research has shown the two can be quite compli- mentary and enhance leafy spurge control. Q Ð Can flea beetles withstand long, harsh The key is timing: Fall and early spring applica- winters? tions can enhance flea beetle population estab- A Ð Flea beetles have proven they can survive lishment by reducing densities and opening the 4 3 2 the long, harsh winters common in the northern spurge canopy. However, late spring or summer Great Plains by establishing populations and con- applications will remove the spurge top growth trolling leafy spurge. There is some speculation, flea beetles need to complete their life cycle, and however, that a lack of snow cover to provide should thus be avoided in situations where you insulation, combined with extended periods of are attempting to start or maintain a population. extremely cold weather, can adversely impact flea beetle populations. Additional research into the Q Ð Can I spray over flea beetles with insec- topic is needed. ticides? A Ð Flea beetles are obviously susceptible to Q Ð Will harvesting flea beetles this year insecticides. In some situations Ð a severe Unmanaged spurge can literally take over the range, as shown in these two reduce next year’s population or retard leafy grasshopper outbreak, for example Ð the use of panoramic photos from the Ekalaka, Montana, area. TEAM Leafy Spurge made grid releas- spurge repression? insecticides cannot be avoided. If the use of es of flea beetles at both sites during June of 2000; a visible reduction of spurge can be A Ð No. There are always plenty of unharvested insecticides at an established flea beetle site is expected by the summer of 2001 with significant (75 percent plus) reductions in 2-4 years. beetles on well established sites, and normal unavoidable, leaving small areas untreated can population development will continue even with provide “reservoirs” of flea beetles to help sustain extensive collection efforts. Likewise, harvesting populations. flea beetles will not impact the population’s ability to repress or control leafy spurge. If you have additional questions or don’t see your This lesson is often difficult to understand, and question listed here, see the “Frequently Asked is too frequently learned too late. The summer of Questions” section of the TEAM Leafy Spurge web 2000 provided some excellent examples. Some site at http://www.team.ars.usda.gov - 20 - - 21 - The “TEAM” Service, state departments of agriculture and TEAM Leafy Spurge Multi-Species Grazing TEAM Leafy Spurge is a USDA-ARS research other state agencies, Cooperative Extension ¥ Gerry Anderson, program director (406/433- ¥ Tim Faller, North Dakota State University/ and demonstration program focused on the Little Services, land grant universities, county weed 9416; [email protected]), or Chad Hettinger Research Extension Center, Box 507, Missouri River drainage in Wyoming, Montana managers, landowners and ranchers. A non-parti- Prosser, program coordinator (406/433-9403; cpross- Hettinger N.D. 58639 (701/567-4327; and the Dakotas, and other spurge-infested san ad hoc committee provides management and [email protected]), USDA-ARS Northern Plains [email protected]). Agricultural Research Laboratory, 1500 N. Central drainages in the region. Its goal is to research, direction. Ave., Sidney MT 59270; Lloyd Wendel, co-principal Range Management develop and demonstrate ecologically based investigator, USDA-APHIS, Moorefield, Rte 3 Box ¥ Don Kirby, North Dakota State University/Dept. Integrated Pest Management strategies that can The Approach 1008, Edenburg, TX 78573 (956/580-7330; of Animal & Range Science, Hultz Hall, Fargo ND be used to achieve effective, affordable and sus- TEAM Leafy Spurge research and demonstra- [email protected]). 58105 (701/231- 7658; [email protected]). tainable leafy spurge control.teamtion projectsspurge are designed to build on existing information¥ Jack Butler, USDA Forest Service, Rocky TEAM Leafy Spurge is built on three important data and explore promising new areas of leafy Biological Control Mountain Research Station, 1730 Samco Rd., Rapid concepts: spurge research. These projects cover a range of ¥ David Hirsch, USDA-APHIS-PPQ, 3509 Miriam City, SD 57702 (605/394-2670; [email protected]). ¥ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - IPM topics, including biological control, multi-species Avenue, Ste. A, Bismarck, ND combines management tools to provide grazing, herbicides, range management, 58501; (701) 250-4473 General Weed Control more effective control than any single and the integration of various control [email protected] Need more info? ¥ David Kazmer, USDA-ARS, tool could produce. Biological con- tools. ¥ David Kazmer, USDA-ARS, Northern Plains Agricultural Northern Plains Agricultural Someone on this list Research Lab, 1500 North trol provides the foundation: Most research is conducted by Research Lab, 1500 North of experts should be Central Ave., Sidney, MT 59270 Biocontrol agents like the flea weed specialists, range scien- Central Ave., Sidney, MT 59270 (406/433-9440; dkazmer@sid- beetle are used with other tists and entomologists. (406/433-9440; dkazmer@sid- able to help. ney.ars.usda.gov). tools Ð multi-species grazing, Research is directed at gain- ney.ars.usda.gov). ¥ Rod Lym, North Dakota herbicides, etc. Ð for effective, ing a better understanding of State University/ Dept. of Plant affordable and ecologically how and why biocontrol Obtaining Insects Science, Loftgard Hall, Fargo N.D. 58105 (701/231- sustainable control. IPM agents work, how biocontrol ¥ Montana - USDA-APHIS, 1629 Ave. D/Suite 5-A, 8996; [email protected]). offers the flexibility landown- interacts with other manage- Billings MT 59103 (406/657-6282); Jerry Marks, ers need to devise different ment tools, and how different Montana State University Extension Service, 126 Web Sites strategies for different situa- tools can be used alone and in West Spruce St., Missoula MT 59802-4204 (406/721- The following web sites provide good information tions. combination to improve spurge 4095; [email protected]). and links to other informational sites. ¥ North Dakota - USDA-APHIS, 3509 Miriam ¥ TEAM Leafy Spurge ¥ Teamwork - TEAM Leafy control. Research is also being Ave./Suite A, Bismarck ND 58501 (701/250-4473); (http://www.team.ars.usda.gov/) for information on Spurge has assembled some of the conducted overseas, where ento- Dave Nelson, state entomologist, North Dakota Dept. biological control, Integrated Pest Management and nation’s most experienced leafy mologists are looking for new biocon- of Agriculture, 600 E. Boulevard/6th Floor, Captial related topics. The site also features an extensive list- spurge researchers into a focused, goal- trol agents. Other research explores the Building, Bismarck ND 58505 (701/328-4765; dnel- ing of other informational sources and web sites. oriented team. This collaboration allows partici- economic and environmental damage caused by [email protected]). ¥ APHIS Noxious Weeds Home Page pants to share expertise, data and resources to leafy spurge. ¥ South Dakota - USDA-APHIS PPQ, PO Box (http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppq/weeds/) for general more effectively work toward a common goal. TEAM Leafy Spurge demonstration sites 250, Pierre SD 57501 (605/224-1713); Ron Moehring, information on noxious weeds and APHIS programs. TEAM Leafy Spurge stresses that EVERYONE, (Sentinel Butte, N.D.; Ekalaka, Mt.; Buffalo, S.D. weed pest supervisor, South Dakota Dept. of ¥ NDSU-Hettinger Research Extension Center from the private rancher/landowner to local, state and Devil’s Tower, Wyo.) give ranchers, landown- Agriculture, 523 E. Capital, Pierre 57501 (605/773- (http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/hettinge/) for informa- and federal agencies, work together to solve the ers and land managers a first-hand look at results 3796; [email protected]). tion on multi-species grazing, sheep and range problem. produced by various IPM strategies. Tours of the ¥ Wyoming - USDA-APHIS PPQ, 504 W. 17th St., health. Cheyenne WY 82001 (307/772-2323); Lars Baker, ¥ NDSU-Dept. of Agribusiness and Applied ¥ Regional Approach - TEAM Leafy Spurge is sites are periodically held to provide updates Fremont County Weed & Pest, County Courthouse/ Economics (http://agecon.lib.umn.edu/) for informa- an area-wide program, and as such, is evaluating about new and improved management strategies. Room 315, Lander WY 82520 (307/332-1052). tion on the socio-economic impacts of leafy spurge, the leafy spurge problem on a regional rather the economics of integrating sheep & cattle, and the than a local, or place-by-place, basis. The Bottom Line Herbicides feasibility of sheep cooperatives. Leafy Spurge is a formidable opponent that ¥ Rod Lym, North Dakota State University/ Dept. ¥ NDSU Extension Service Partnerships!!! cannot be controlled or eliminated by any single of Plant Science, Loftgard Hall, Fargo N.D. 58105 (http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extpubs/) features a wealth TEAM Leafy Spurge is funded by the USDA- entity or management practice Ð a collaborative, (701/231-8996; [email protected]). of information. Extension Service bulletins with perti- Agricultural Research Service, and managed in integrated and area-wide approach is essential to ¥ Leon Wrage, South Dakota State University nent information can be found in the agricultural eco- conjunction with the USDA-APHIS. Other TEAM solving this costly problem. TEAM Leafy Spurge Extension Service, Ag Hall/Box 2207A, Brookings SD nomics, animal science, entomology, plant science members include the U.S. Forest Service, exists to promote these concepts, and to serve as 57007 (605/688-4602; [email protected]). and water quality sections of the directory. National Park Service, Bureaus of Land a clearing house for proven management strate- Management and Reclamation, U.S. Geological gies. - 22- - 23 - A message from TEAM L Leafyeafy Spurge emember, PREVENTION is always the integrated and area-wide approach is absolutely best way to manage leafy spurge and essential. That means everyone, from landowners Rother invasive noxious weeds. Be vigi- and land managers to legislators and a diverse lant in efforts to monitor your land Ð quickly array of state and federal agencies, must be identifying then eradicating infestations of new actively involved. invaders is much easier and far less costly than managing established infestations. lso recognize that leafy spurge and other noxious weeds are NOT JUST t also is important that people WORK AAN AGRICULTURAL PROBLEM. TOGETHER to manage leafy spurge and These weeds increase production costs Ð which Iother noxious weed invaders. Creating part- ultimately contributes to higher food prices Ð sap nerships and working together enables ranchers, tax resources, reduce land values and threaten landowners and land managers to share resources precious environmental resources. The problem is and expertise and more effectively work toward a shared by all, and as such, will require teamwork common goal. The war against leafy spurge and and collaboration to devise a shared solution. other noxious weeds, quite simply, cannot and Gerry Anderson & Lloyd Wendel will not be won individually Ð a collaborative, Co-Principal Investigators, TEAM Leafy Spurge

“Biological Control of Leafy Spurge” was published by the USDA-ARS TEAM Leafy Spurge area-wide integrated pest management program. TEAM Leafy Spurge is headquartered at the USDA-Agricultural Research Service Northern Plains Agricultural Laboratory in Sidney, Montana (http://www.sidney.ars.usda.gov/), and managed in conjunction with the USDA-Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service.

“Biological Control of Leafy Spurge” was compiled by Steve Merritt, former TEAM Leafy Spurge technology transfer special- ist, USDA-ARS NPARL/Montana State University; Dave Hirsch, USDA-APHIS Plant Protection & Quarantine officer; and Dave Nelson, state entomologist, North Dakota Department of Agriculture. Special thanks to the North Dakota Biocontrol Steering Committee for conceiving the original concept; to R.D. Richard of the USDA-APHIS PPQ/Biocontrol of Weeds Laboratory in Bozeman, Montana, for his outstanding flea beetle pho- tographs; and to all of those who provided input, information and technical assistance.

Funding provided by TEAM Leafy Spurge. Published March, 2002 (third printing)

For information on obtaining additional copies of this manual, call 406/433-2020 or visit the TEAM Leafy Spurge web site at http://www.team.ars.usda.gov/ The manual can be downloaded as a PDF (Adobe Acrobat reader required) from the TEAM Leafy Spurge web site at http://www.team.ars.usda.gov/biocontrolmanual.html