Controlling Invasive Species: A Team Effort
Three Rivers Natural Resources Management (NRM) staff and volunteers have been working hard for years to meet the challenges of invasive species. Many of these species have become household names as the media pleads with the public to help stop their spread: zebra mussels, Eurasian water milfoil, buckthorn, garlic mustard, emerald ash borer, Asian carp, gypsy moths. So, what is the big deal anyway and what is Three Rivers doing about it?
When non-native species spread rapidly into native communities causing ecological or economic harm, they are termed invasive species, and they are being transported faster than ever before due to the increased recreational use within our parks.
Early detection is key to controlling invasive species. Smaller infestations take less time and money to manage or control. Staff and volunteers skilled in plant identification have been searching for invasives in hope of stopping their spread before they become established.
Once established, it can be very difficult to suppress or eliminate invasive species, especially more aggressive species such as European buckthorn, black locust and oriental bittersweet. As budgets and staffing allow, NRM staff work to contain these more aggressive plants, utilizing tactics such as coordinated garlic mustard and buckthorn pulls with volunteers.
Aquatic invasive species are an increasing problem in our watersheds. In collaboration with lake homeowner associations, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District, Three Rivers is working to prevent the introduction of exotic species into Minnesota lakes and develop cost-effective control methods for areas already affected. Three Rivers staff are working with volunteers and the Minnesota DNR to help educate boaters about stopping aquatic invasive “hitchhikers” such as zebra mussels.
What you can do to help?
Help stop the spread with tips from the Nature Conservancy.
Three Rivers also has ongoing volunteer opportunities, including surveying invasive plants, inspecting watercrafts at public boat launches, and events such as garlic mustard and buckthorn pulls in spring and fall. Check back often for information on these events or visit the Volunteer page.
More information on invasive species can be found through the DNR, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, or by contacting Three Rivers NRM staff at 763.694.7840. If you find a suspicious looking plant, please report it to NRM staff at 763.694.7840.
