Aug. 23, 2010

View three experimental plots where scientists are studying the best options for controlling invasive plant species during a field tour along the North Platte River.

The Aug. 26 tour starts at 9 a.m. in the east parking lot of the UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center, 4502 Avenue I, Scottsbluff. Transportation to the plots and lunch will be provided. Participants are asked to RSVP by Aug. 24 by email to Lori Howlett at lhowlett1@unl.edu.

The tour is organized by UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center and Dow AgroSciences, who are conducting the studies.

The North Platte River ecosystem in western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming is susceptible to the establishment and spread of invasive species, said UNL Extension Weed Specialist Bob Wilson. Extensive weed populations of saltcedar, Russian olive, and Canada thistle have displaced the native vegetation and caused problems with the river’s stream flow.

Tour stops and Highlights

• University Lake: Use of herbicides and perennial grasses in Canada thistle control programs, including Garlon®, Remedy Ultra®, Milestone®, Milestone VM Plus®, Habitat®; and perennial grass establishment after chemical brush control, with 14 species including western and crested wheatgrass, switchgrass, little bluestem, and orchardgrass
   
• Spotted Tail Creek: Chemical control of Canada thistle after prescribed burning, with herbicides applied early or late in the spring. Discussion of the effects of fire and herbicides on grasses, forbs, and invasive species
   
• Henry: Russian olive control with Garlon®, Remedy Ultra®, Milestone®, Milestone VM Plus®, and Habitat® foliar and basal bark applications and a combination of mechanical removal and chemical control on a commercial scale.

For more information about the tour contact the Panhandle Center at (308) 632-1230.

David Ostdiek
Communications/Technology, Panhandle REC