Poster Session #1: UC South Ballroom
Developing a Comprehensive, Long-term Monitoring Program for Invasive Weed Treatments
Presentation Type
Poster
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Alexis Gibson
Abstract / Artist's Statement
Invasive weeds are a pervasive problem in the United States. Every year, millions of dollars are spent to combat invasive weed species and protect native and endemic ecosystems. Many different groups are engaged in the fight against invasive weeds ranging from federal agencies such as the Forest Service to local non-profits and citizen groups. The most pervasive management action employed to reduce invasive weeds is hand-spraying herbicide. However, few groups monitor their weed treatments. Last spring I was paired with the Great Burn Study Group (GBSG) to develop a monitoring program for their weed treatments in the Kelly Creek watershed. Prior to working together, they lacked a comprehensive program, which would allow them to answer questions, analyze data, share knowledge, and employ adaptive management. The program I am creating for them poses a specific question with measurable variables, delivers new sampling protocols, provides tools for data management and analysis, and proposes new strategies for technology transfer. The goal of this program is to provide the GBSG with tools to assess their management actions and share results. It is also intended to be accessible to citizen scientists and people new to the organization. Furthermore, this program can be shared with other groups in the area to advance weed management actions in the region.
Category
Physical Sciences
Developing a Comprehensive, Long-term Monitoring Program for Invasive Weed Treatments
Invasive weeds are a pervasive problem in the United States. Every year, millions of dollars are spent to combat invasive weed species and protect native and endemic ecosystems. Many different groups are engaged in the fight against invasive weeds ranging from federal agencies such as the Forest Service to local non-profits and citizen groups. The most pervasive management action employed to reduce invasive weeds is hand-spraying herbicide. However, few groups monitor their weed treatments. Last spring I was paired with the Great Burn Study Group (GBSG) to develop a monitoring program for their weed treatments in the Kelly Creek watershed. Prior to working together, they lacked a comprehensive program, which would allow them to answer questions, analyze data, share knowledge, and employ adaptive management. The program I am creating for them poses a specific question with measurable variables, delivers new sampling protocols, provides tools for data management and analysis, and proposes new strategies for technology transfer. The goal of this program is to provide the GBSG with tools to assess their management actions and share results. It is also intended to be accessible to citizen scientists and people new to the organization. Furthermore, this program can be shared with other groups in the area to advance weed management actions in the region.