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Submodule 1: What are invasive weeds?
You have completed Submodule 1.
Complete the interactive exercises for Submodule 1 to see how much you have learned.
Exercises open in a separate window.
Summary: Major Points from Submodule 1
- Western rangelands provide many ecological, economic, and recreational benefits.
- Invasive plants are an ever-growing threat to this valuable resource.
- There are many terms that are used to describe invasive plants, or weeds, each having a slightly different connotation.
- Executive Order 13112, established in 1999, officially defined an invasive species as one that is non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. This Order outlines the Federal governments responsibility in managing invasive species in the U.S.
- There are particular characteristics that are commonly found in plants that have or may become invasive including rapid growth, production of a large quantity of seeds, and dense root systems. These and other characteristics can allow certain plants to overwhelm native plants and spread.
- While there are government agencies charged with keeping invasive plants out of the county, there is really no way of knowing for sure which plants will become invasive before and infestation has occurred.
- Historical information shows that many invasive plants entered the U.S. via human activities, such as by shipping, importation of seeds, and human migration.
- Some plants were brought into this county for beneficial uses including horticulture and erosion control, and later escaped into the wild and become invasive.
- Unfortunately, some rangeland conditions contribute to the ability of plants to invade and become established.
- Researchers have studied many aspects of invasive plants, describing their growth, establishment and naturalization in an area.
- Private citizens have made and continue to make great contributions in the fight against invasive rangeland weeds.
- There are many opportunities available through federal, state, and local government agencies as well as with many private organizations.
- Rangeland can be very fragile ecosystems that are affected by biotic and abiotic conditions.
- Their natural vegetation has been used for grazing for almost 500 years. While grazing can have positive effects on rangeland conditions, it can also have negative impacts if not properly managed.
When you are ready, proceed to Submodule 2.
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