5.10. SR 12-20-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Control Invasive Exotic Species Several nonnative species (sometimes called "exotics") are either currently a problem or have potential to be a problem. These include European buckthorn, Tartarian honeysuckle, Chinese elm, reed canary grass, smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, leafy spurge, phragmites, Absinthe sage and purple loosestrife. These plants invade native plant communities and can take over rapidly, eliminating native plants and leading to a loss of plant diversity and wildlife habitat Often, disturbances from new road or home site construction serve as a pathway for introduction of these species to a natural community not yet invaded by exotic species To control invasion by exotics, minimize disturbance to natural areas and surrounding buffer areas as much as possible, and avoid planting or providing openings for exotics to invade. Small populations of exotics may be controlled by hand removal or through direct application of appropriate herbicides. Maintain and Place Habitat Structures Where Appropriate Natural areas provide important habitat for many species of wildlife. Adding wood duck nest boxes and other types of nesting structures can augment habitat. Retaining or adding stones, logs, and dead trees in natural areas and buffers provides habitat for many species of reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals. While some tree removal may be necessary for safety or for disease control (e.g., Dutch Elm Disease or Oak Wilt), dead trees, both standing and down provide habitat for many animals. The books Lakescaping for Wildlife and Water Quality and Landscaping for Wildlife by Carroll Henderson are useful guides for improving habitat with plantings and structures. Management Recommendations, by Community Type Following are general management strategies for prairie, savanna, wetland and forest communities. These management strategies are intended to be generic; therefore more specific management recommendations may be necessary for individual natural communities and sites. Prairie and Savanna Management. Prior to European settlement the health of prairie and savanna plant communities were maintained by grazing and fires, both of which probably occurred annually to every few years on most sites. Some fires occurred naturally, while most were set by Native Americans. Fires maintained the open structure of prairies by controlling the growth City of Elk River. MN - Natural Resouce Inventory Bonestroo Natural Resources. September 2004 56