Recovery Act Funds Help in Battle Against Exotic Plants

By Kris Reichenbach on Apr 4, 2010

As part of a multi-year project funded under the Recovery Act, various locations across the Superior National Forest are being treated to keep exotic (non-native invasive) plants under control

In 2009, as part of a multi-year project funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, 164 acres at various locations across the Superior National Forest (Minnesota) were treated to keep non-native invasive plants from spreading across the landscape.

The Superior National Forest is in a unique position because non-native invasive plants are not broadly established on the Forest, therefore control efforts can still be effective. This project will supplement the ongoing program to control non-native invasive species that threaten natural communities across the Forest.

Treatments will occur both inside and outside of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Herbicide spot applications are being used to treat weed infestations across the Forest outside of the BWCAW. Hand-pulling of plants is being used at known weed infestations in the eastern part of the BWCAW. The work is being accomplished by both contractors and temporary employees.

Outside of the BWCAW, treatments are focused on roadsides, off-highway vehicle trails, and recently completed vegetation management projects. These are high risk areas for non-native plants to spread because of the volume of traffic moving in and out.

Similar work is planned in 2010 on approximately 50 acres that will involve a cooperative agreement with the Student Conservation Association, as well as contracting and hiring temporary employees.

In 2009, the Obama Administration invested nearly 13 million dollars in Northeast Minnesota's economy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The money will fund 23 projects on the Superior National Forest through 2012, helping put people to work, accomplishing needed work on public lands, and providing long-term benefits such as developing new skills and adding economic value to communities. Projects funded by the Recovery Act have been integrated into our overall program of work where we are creating significant efficiencies by combining similar projects and integrating project planning and preparation. This investment will provide multiple benefits such as clean and abundant water by restoring forest health. Additional information about the USDA Forest Service and how we are involved nationally in implementing the Recovery Act of 2009 is available at: www.fs.fed.us.