Submodule 2: Where Invasive Plants Are Found

You have completed Submodule 2.

Complete the interactive exercises for Submodule 2 to see how much you have learned.

Exercises open in a separate window.

Summary: Major Points from Submodule 2

• In general, rangelands have an abundant supply of resources necessary for native plant growth, although water is often a limiting factor.
  
  
• However, these resources also supply for the growth needs of invasive plants.
  
  
• In addition, non-native invaders have the luxury of growing in a new area that is usually free of the natural controls it faced in its native habitat, affording an advantage over native plants. This situation has been studied as a possible control method for invasive plants – researchers travel to the invaders native habitat, collect insects, fungi, and other organisms that naturally control the growth of the invader, and bring them back to the U.S for testing and possible release. Testing is underway for many of these biological control methods for weeds.
  
  
• Government and private agencies are concentrating efforts to learn more about invasive rangeland plants and how to combat their spread. While much has been learned, there is still much work to be completed to gain and understanding of how these plants become invasive, and what to do once an infestation occurs.
  
  
• Early detection of new infestations appears to be a major step in stopping infestations and keeping costs down.
  
  
• Rangeland weeds are found in most landforms in the western U.S. Areas particularly hard hit include travel ways, riparian areas, and disturbed lands. Weeds negatively affect native plant and annual habitats. There are some areas where native perennial grasses have been largely replaced by annual forbs and grasses.
  
  
• Restoration can be quite expensive and, in some areas, may not be possible.

When you are ready, proceed to Submodule 3.