Ecosystem Management

Competition from desired plants is the foundation of weed prevention when combined with strategies that limit weed movement. Such competition reduces weed establishment and increases the effectiveness of weed control. An ecosystem management approach addresses maintaining healthy and competitive plant communities, since the condition of the invaded community may either aid or hinder invasion. Human modifications of ecosystems cause changes in community structure that may lower the competitiveness of native plants and assist weed establishment. Grazing is the most common disturbance on rangeland, but when properly managed, it can maintain the vigor of grasses and other forages. However, when grazing is applied incorrectly, it can open sites for weed establishment. Rangelands require management to maintain the desired vegetation. Prescribed grazing management that controls the timing, intensity, and frequency of grazing maintains plant community vigor and helps prevent weed invasion. By definition, application of a prescribed grazing plan requires evaluation of performance through frequent field checks of utilization, which can help to locate new infestations. Other practices, including watering facility development, can be encouraged to help in the application of prescribed grazing. On sites managed for hay production, irrigation management and crop rotation can be used to maintain productive land and prevent weed establishment. Prescribed grazing management can be adapted when natural disturbances such as wildfire and drought reduce plant vigor and increase susceptibility to weed invasion.

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Last Modified: 08/02/2007