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)
Site Visits
9:30am-12:30pm
Location: Fruita, CO (Riverfront Trail and Big Salt Wash)
(Some transportation provided and carpooling is encouraged.)
Join Western Colorado Conservation Corps and RiversEdge West at 2 sites near Fruita, CO. First you’ll head to the Riverfront Trail in Loma to view a planting project and compare sites before and after invasive plant treatment. Then, you’ll meet at Big Salt Wash
in Fruita to take a look at a longer term restoration site where improving access for recreation is a top priority.