Exploring the Biological and Ecological Foundation of Invasive Plant Management 

Bailey Goldberg1*, Matt Costigan2 

1Western Colorado Conservation Corps, Grand Junction, Colorado, USA; bgoldberg@mesapartners.org  

2Western Colorado Conservation Corps, Grand Junction, Colorado, USA; mcostigan@mesapartners.org 

 

This presentation will focus on the importance of understanding invasive species to better implement management techniques.  

We will begin with classifications of invasive plants in Western Colorado and basic biological factors as they pertain to treatment success. I will discuss the process by which invasion occurs, and the characteristics that define the viability of an invasive plant in an ecosystem. We will then discuss Integrated Pest Management and its role in promoting native diversity. Finally, we will use these topics to explore species commonly targeted by conservation crews around Mesa County.

(Followed by Site Visits)