A New Growing Concern
The invasion of squarrose knapweed has it’s history established clear back in 1954. A group of land managers called a special meeting to address the new squarrose knapweed invasion that had started to manifest in their valley.
It appears that livestock and vehicles have spread it. It isn't likely to go out on desert ranges because growth is made late. We need not be alarmed about it on the range.
The proposed solution:
- Study the plant and it’s habits.
- Study the need as to germination and length of time it will remain viable.
- Trials on determining the effect of tillage including deep tillage and regular clean cultivation.
- Study the effect of the different chemicals at different stages of growth, rate, and kind.
- Determine the actual cost to clean the weed up by different methods.
- Study re-seeding or how to replace the present weeds vegetation with more desirable vegetation.
Fast Forward to 1996
The invasion of squarrose knapweed in central Utah continues to operate like a raging biological wildfire. A special meeting is held to address the growing concerns.
This weed is a very aggressive competitor, which readily invades disturbed areas and then spreads into adjoining undisturbed areas, slowly replacing native perennial vegetation. The long-term impact of this weed invasion is loss of vegetative biodiversity which effects wildlife, livestock, water quantity and quality, soil, production capability and marketability of cropland, recreational and wilderness opportunities and aesthetic value.
Current Control Efforts
Following the management plan adopted by the original CWMA, we are actively engaged in treatment, education, and restoration. The relaxed approach to the infestation back in 1954 helped show us how much of a priority this weed has to be.
