Approach
Hundreds of nonnative invasive plant species are currently present in the Midwest and Northeast. Climate change is expected to increase habitat for many of these species, which may be poised to outcompete native species. Current methods for controlling nonnative invasive species emphasize early detection and rapid response to new infestations. Management of highly mobile nonnative invasive species may require increased coordination across property boundaries and over larger geographic areas, and is likely to require an increasing budget for eradication efforts. Limitations in available resources may require managers to prioritize which species to eradicate and which species to allow to occupy a site.
Tactics
- Eradicate existing populations or seed sources (e.g. upstream) of invasive plants through physical or chemical treatments.
- Maintain closed-canopy conditions to reduce the ability of light-loving invasive species to enter the understory.
- Install artificial movement barriers in connected migration areas to prevent spread of invasive species.
- Increase monitoring for known or potential invasive species to ensure early detection, especially at trailheads, along roads, and along other pathways known for infestation.
- Extend harvest seasons on invasive or non-native species.
- Follow best management practices to reduce invasive species spread such as treating infestations prior to any on-site soil-disturbing work, and working only in conditions where soil disturbance is minimal (frozen ground, snow, dry).
Strategy
Strategy Text
This strategy addresses the benefits of healthy forest cover in the production of water resources. It is well established that forested watersheds provide multiple benefits and ecosystem services such as timber, carbon storage, wildlife habitat, food, and cultural services. Changes to forest structure and composition, can alter underlying hydrologic processes within a watershed affecting the capture, storage and filtration of water, and the regulation of streamflow. Managing forests to reduce stressors, increase structural and species diversity, and protect unique habitats, may enhance forest ecosystem resilience to increasing climate variability, extreme events, and other disturbances.
Shannon, P.D.; Swanston, C.W.; Janowiak, M.K.; Handler, S.D.; Schmitt, K.M.; Brandt, L.A.; Butler-Leopold, P.R.; Ontl, T.A. (in review). Adaptation Strategies and Approaches for Forested Watersheds. Ecological Applications.,