Giant reed (Arundo donax) is an exotic perennial grass that has invaded riparian areas throughout California and many other regions of the world. Its success as an invasive species is at least partly attributable to its rapid clonal spread by rhizome extension and flood dispersal of plant fragments, since viable seed does not appear to be produced in the United States. To measure genetic diversity in this clonally propagated species, we genotyped 144 leaf samples of Arundo collected from California, Texas, Mississippi, Florida and France. For maximum genome coverage, we used two molecular marker systems: (1) ten SRAP (Sequence Related Amplification Polymorphism) markers, a gene-targeted marker system, and (2) fifteen transposon-based molecular markers, which primarily amplified non-coding regions of the genome. Our results indicate that, with the exception of a few minor differences, all tested samples are represented by a single clone despite the extreme geographical distance among the accessions. The lack of genotypic diversity in giant reed suggests biological control of the species could be successful.
Anonymous (2003). "Eleven new species added to the State Weed List." Noxious Times 5(3): 1,3 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Anonymous (2003). "A look at a Draft of the California Noxious and Invasive Weed Action Plan." Noxious Times 5(4 (special issue)): 1-20 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Anonymous (2005). "California Conservation Corps attacks Arundo." Noxious Times 7(3-4): 18 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Anonymous (2005). "JK International, LLC provides new herbicide delivery system." Noxious Times 7(2): 15 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Anonymous (2005). "Noxious weed washer - mobile vehicle decontamination unit." Noxious Times 7(3-4): 17 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Anonymous (2005). "TNC’s Weed Information Management System (WIMS)." Noxious Times 7(1): 12 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Bautista, S. (1998). A Comparison of Two Methods for Controlling Arundo Donax. Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 49-52 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Bautista, S. J. (1994). Riparian habitat, endangered species, and herbicide: cover all the bases during public involvement. Proceedings, annual Forest Vegetation Management Conference. Redding, CA: 166-170
Bell, G. (1997). Ecology and management of Arundo donax, and approaches to riparian habitat restoration in Southern California. Plant Invasions: Studies from North America and Europe. Leiden, The Netherlands, Blackhuys Publishers: 103-113 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/arundo_ecology.html).
Boose, A. B. and J. S. Holt (1999). "Environmental effects on asexual reproduction in Arundo donax." Weed research 39(2): 117-127 (http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/links/doi/10.1046/j.1365-3180.1999.00129.x).
California Department of Food and Agriculture - Pesticide Investigations Unit (2000). Control of Giant Cane in Riparian and Wetland Areas of Northern and Central California, California Department of Food and Agriculture (http://teamarundo.org/control_manage/DFG-EPAreport.html).
This project has three primary objectives: (1) to determine the best methods for giant cane control in northern and central California; (2) to educate the public regarding the giant cane threat; and (3) to gather information regarding giant cane’s current presence in northern and central California and its potential for further invasive spread in the region. These objectives were accomplished via the following four tasks:
1) the establishment of a giant cane control demonstration project; 2) the completion of an herbicide risk assessment for nontarget aquatic species; 3) the development of giant cane educational materials; and 4) the completion of a giant cane survey project for northern and central California.
California Watershed Funding Database. (2006, Nov. 3, 2006). "California Watershed Funding Database." from http://www.calwatershedfunds.org/.
Carruthers, R. (2000). "Weed Control and the USDA Exotic and Invasive Weeds Research Unit." Noxious Times 2(4): 10-12 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Coffman, G., T. Dudley, et al. (2005). Are we creating the ideal conditions for Arundo donax invasion in California? Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium. Prevention Reinvention: Protocols, Information, and Partnerships to Stop the Spread of Invasive Plants. G. Skurka. Berkeley, CA, California Invasive Plant Council. 9: 9 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php).
Cornwall, C. (2000). "Team Arundo del Norte Receives Calfed Grant." Noxious Times 2(4): 7 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Decruyenaere, J. G. and J. S. Holt (2001). "Seasonality of clonal propagation in giant reed." Weed Science 49(6): 760-767
Vegetative propagules of an invasive riparian weed, giant reed, were collected monthly from two Southern California sites and planted in a greenhouse from August 1998 to July 1999. Rooting and emergence frequency of planted pieces and time to emergence, growth rate, and number of developing shoots were recorded; soluble carbohydrates were analyzed. Response variables were regressed against climatic, seasonal, and site effects using a stepwise model. Rhizomes established much more frequently than stems in all months. Time of year of collection was found to be the most important factor determining establishment of all propagule types. The interaction of maximum daily temperature and precipitation at the field sites had a lesser, but significant effect on rooting frequency. The lack of a consistent correlation between any of the response variables and climate or site may indicate broad environmental tolerance. Seasonal patterns in emergence, growth, and soluble carbohydrates suggest that control by shoot removal would be most effective in fall when rhizome carbohydrate reserves are the lowest, resulting in the greatest reduction in regrowth. Chemical control with phloem-mobile herbicides would be most effective in late summer or early fall, when carbohydrates are moving from leaves to belowground structures but prior to natural leaf senescence.
Decruyenaere, J. G. and J. S. Holt (2005). "Ramet Demography of a Clonal Invader, Arundo donax (Poaceae), in Southern California." Plant and Soil 277(1-2): 41-52 (http://www.springerlink.com/content/fh30301227787066/).
Arundo donax L. is a rhizomatous perennial, asexually reproducing species that has invaded riparian habitats throughout Mediterranean climate zones. This research evaluated ramet demography of A. donax in two California riparian communities that differed in nitrogen availability. Quadrats were established along 100 m transects at each site and oriented across the advancing fronts of established populations. Morphology and phenology were assessed monthly over 1 year for calculation of demographic parameters and rhizomes were excavated and mapped at the end of the experiment. A. donax exhibited seasonal patterns of recruitment but no dormancy at the high nitrogen site, while at the low nitrogen site no recruitment occurred in the winter and maximum recruitment was delayed by a month relative to the high nitrogen site. Spread of A. donax was delayed until spring and lower overall in the low nitrogen site compared to the high nitrogen site, where lower initial density, greater production of shoots, and higher linear and areal addition indicated that this population was spreading more rapidly. Temperature and precipitation influenced seasonality and amount of recruitment of A. donax in this study. Several recently established, immature clumps were found in gaps at the low nitrogen site, likely due to flood-mediated dispersal of propagules. Recruitment in these clumps occurred from shoot buds, in contrast to the mature populations that reproduced from rhizome buds. Ecologically based management strategies for A. donax and other exotic species should account for differences such as those described here and be tailored to local conditions where the species occurs.
DiTomaso, J. M. (1998). Biology and Ecology of Giant Reed. Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 1-5 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
DiTomaso, J. M. and E. A. Healy (2003). Aquatic and Riparian Weeds of the West. Davis, CA, University of California, Davis, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources
This is the first comprehensive identification manual for aquatic and riparian weeds west of the Rocky Mountains. This practical, easy-to-use guide covers 171 aquatic plant species -- consisting of 58 plant groups, including a full description of 82 species and another 96 plants compared as similar species, representing 42 plant families.
Dudley, T. (2003). "Arundo donax Detailed Report." from http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/datastore/detailreport.cfm?usernumber=8&surveynumber=182.
Else, J. (1996). Post-Flood Establishment of Native Woody Species and an Exotic, Arundo donax, in a Southern California Riparian System. San Diego, San Diego State University (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/giessow_j_thesis.pdf).
Everitt, J. H., C. Yang, et al. (2004). "Canopy spectra of giant reed and associated vegetation." Journal of range management 57(5): 561-569
This paper describes the spectral light reflectance characteristics of giant reed (Arundo donax L.) and the application of aerial color-infrared photography and videography for distinguishing infestations of this invasive plant species in Texas riparian areas. Airborne videography was integrated with global positioning system (GPS) and geographic information system (GIS) technologies for mapping the distribution of giant reed. Field spectral measurements showed that giant reed had higher near-infrared reflectance than associated plant species in summer and fall. Giant reed had a conspicuous pink image response on the color-infrared photography and videography. This allowed infestations to be quantified using computer analysis of the photographic and videographic images. Accuracy assessments performed on the classified images had user’s and producer’s accuracies for giant reed that ranged from 78% to 100%. Integration of the GPS with the video imagery permitted latitude-longitude coordinates of giant reed infestations to be recorded on each image. A long stretch of the Rio Grande in southwest and west Texas was flown with the photographic and video systems to detect giant reed infestations. The GPS coordinates on the color-infrared video scenes depicting giant reed infestations were entered into a GIS to map the distribution of this invasive weed along the Rio Grande.
Frandsen, P. (1994). "Team Arundo: an interagency success story." California Weed Conference. Proceedings 46: 157-161
Frandsen, P. (1998). The Political Side of Exotic Pest Plants. Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 67-68 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Frandsen, P., Jackson, N. (1998). Santa Ana River Interagency Habitat Recovery Project, Van Buren Bridge Project Area Summary. Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 47-48 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Frandsen, P. R. (1997). Team Arundo: Interagency cooperation to control giant cane (Arundo donax). Assessment and Management of Plant Invasions. J. O. Luken, Thieret, J. W. New York, Springer: 244-248
Gaffney, K. (2003). A Watershed Approach to Arundo donax Removal and Riparian Restoration. Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium: Planning Weed Management for Ecosystem Recovery. C. Pirosko. Berkeley, California, California Invasive Plant Council. 7: 17 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
Giant reed (Arundo donax), an invasive grass native to Asia, is widespread in the Russian River watershed and is beginning to invade other north coast stream ecosystems. Giant reed has a profoundly negative impact on native riparian plant communities and may affect the species that rely upon these communities, including three federally listed salmonids. We represent a community-based organization that is working in collaboration with agencies, landowners and community members to identify invaded sites, remove giant reed and restore native habitat. Basin wide mapping and GIS programs enable site prioritization, tracking of giant reed populations and monitoring of project success. Experimental trials indicate that giant reed reduces native plant species richness and abundance, as well as suppressing native seedling recruitment. These experiments also demonstrate that herbicide and tarping are highly effective control methods, and that removing giant reed allows for rapid natural regeneration of invaded sites. Results from our mapping and research program are incorporated into an ongoing watershed education and outreach program focused on reed removal and floodplain habitat recovery.
Gaffney, K. and R. Hunter (2005). Incorporating Applied Research into an Ongoing Watershed-Based, Programmatic Approach to Arundo donax Removal. Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium. Prevention Reinvention: Protocols, Information, and Partnerships to Stop the Spread of Invasive Plants. G. Skurka. Berkeley, CA, California Invasive Plant Council. 9: 46-47 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php).
Gaffney, K. A. (2002). "Giant Reed in the Russian River Watershed: Distribution, Plant Community Effects & Control Methods." from http://teamarundo.org/papers/GaffneyPres071002_files/frame.htm.
Giessow, J. a. J. G. (2001). Planning: Arundo donax removal: A review of methods for control and biomass removal. Proceedings, California Exotic Pest Plant Council Symposiums: Achievements and Challenges in Wildland Weed Management. M. Kelly. Berkeley, CA, California Exotic Pest Plant Council. 6: 85 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
GISP, G. I. S. D. (2003). "Arundo Fact Sheet, Global Invasive Species Database (GISP)." from http://www.issg.org/database/species/ecology.asp?si=112&fr=1&sts=sss.
Herrera, A. M. and T. L. Dudley (2003). "Reduction of riparian arthropod abundance and diversity as a consequence of giant reed (Arundo donax) invasion." Biological Invasions 5: 167-177
The non-indigenous perennial grass, Arundo donax, is an aggressive invader of riparian areas throughout California and many sub-tropical regions of the world, and is hypothesized to provide poorer quality habitat for native wildlife in riparian systems. We sampled aerial and ground dwelling insects and other terrestrial arthropods associated with Arundo, native willow vegetation (Salix spp.), and mixtures of the two vegetation types during two seasons to determine how Arundo influences invertebrate composition in a low gradient stream in central California. The total number of organisms, total biomass and taxonomic richness of aerial invertebrates associated with native vegetation was approximately twice that associated with Arundo vegetation, while mixed vegetation supported intermediate arthropod levels. Shannon-Weaver (Weiner) diversity associated with native vegetation stands was also higher than that of Arundo vegetation. Ground-dwelling assemblages did not show differences as great as aerial assemblages which are more critical to foraging avian species. These results indicate that vegetation type is a significant factor reducing the abundance and diversity of invertebrates in this, and presumably in many other riparian ecosystems where this invasive species has become a dominant component. Arundo invasion changes the vegetation structure of riparian zones and in turn, may increasingly jeopardize its habitat value for birds and other wildlife whose diets are largely composed of insects found in native riparian vegetation.
Holman, D. (2002). "Combined efforts rid area of invasive reeds." American City & County 117(3): 16
Hoshovsky, M. (1987). Arundo donax. Element Stewardship Abstract, The Nature Conservancy, San Francisco, CA: 10 pages
ITIS. (1999). "Taxonomic Information on Arundo." from http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/itisca/next?v_tsn=41449&taxa=&p_ifx=plglt&p_lang=.
Iverson, M. E. (1993). The Impact of Arundo donax on Water Resources. Arundo donax workshop proceedings, Nov. 19, 1993. N. E. Jackson, Frandsen, P., Douthit, S. Ontario, CA, Riverside County Parks Department: 19-26 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/proc93/proc93_index.html).
Jackson, N. E. (1998). Chemical Control of Giant Reed (Arundo donax) and Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima). Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 33-42 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Jakovleski, M. and M. Flores (2004). "Water and Weeds." Noxious Times 6(3): 6-9 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
Johnson, M., T. Dudley, et al. (2006). "Seed production in Arundo donax?" Cal-IPC News 14(3): 12-13 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/resources/news/index.php).
Jones, P. (1997). "Team Arundo del Norte." Cal-EPPC News 7(2): 9 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/resources/news/index.php).
Kelly, M. (1999). "Roundup of Arundo Projects Reveals Commitment, Strategic Weakness." Cal-EPPC News 7(2): 4-9 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/resources/news/index.php).
Kirk, A. (2003). The Potential contribution of Natural Enemies from Mediterranean Europe to the Management of the Invasive Weed Arundo donax (Graminae; Arundinae) in the US. Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium: Planning Weed Management for Ecosystem Recovery. C. Pirosko. Berkeley, California, California Invasive Plant Council. 7: 62-28 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
The potential contribution of natural enemies from Mediterranean Europe to the management of the invasive weed Arundo donax (Graminae; Arundinae) in the US
Kirk, A.A.1, T. Widmer1, G. Campobasso1, R. Carruthers2, and T. Dudley2 1USDA-ARS, European Biological Control Laboratory 2USDA-ARS, Western Regional Research Center, Exotic and Invasive Weed Research Unit <ric@pw.usda.gov>
Arundo donax, Giant reed, is a widespread invasive weed in California and the southwestern US. It ranges from the Canary Islands to northern Myanmar. It is a biocontrol target because of its intransigence to cultural and chemical control and its disastrous impact on the local ecology. Foreign exploration in Nepal and India revealed little sign of natural control whereas collections made around the Mediterranean resulted in 3 Hymenoptera, 5 Diptera, and a scale species plus several plant diseases, which cause death of shoots, tips and dormant buds. On average 55% of an Arundo stand is dead in the region around Montpellier France. Preliminary results suggest mortality may be attributed to Diptera (24%), and scale insects (14%), with Hymenoptera and fungal pathogens also playing a role. Infested areas of California and parts of the Mediterranean basin are excellent climatic matches. These results suggest that the Mediterranean is likely to be a profitable area to explore for natural enemies. Characterization of Arundo samples from Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and Australia may elucidate its center of origin.
Lawson, D. a. H. S. (2001). Evaluation of chipped Arundo biomass as mulch. Proceedings, California Exotic Pest Plant Council Symposiums: Achievements and Challenges in Wildland Weed Management. M. Kelly. Berkeley, CA, California Exotic Pest Plant. 6: 64-76 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
Lawson, D. M., J. A. Giessow, et al. (2001). The Santa Margarita River Arundo donax Control Project: Development of Methods and Plant Community Response. USGS/USFWS Conference, Pomona, CA, In press. USGS/USFWS Conference, Planning for Biodiversity: Bringing Research and Management Together
A large-scale effort to control the aggressively invasive exotic species Arundo donax in the Santa Margarita River watershed was initiated in 1997. The project was prompted by the need for Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton to address impacts to habitat for federally listed endangered species and wetlands regulated by the Army Corps of Engineers. As of 2000, 27 km of the main stem of the Santa Margarita River had been treated. The methods employed were tested in preliminary trials before widespread implementation, and additional techniques emerged during the course of the project. Although the primary target is A.donax, 14 other invasive exotic species that also threaten riparian ecosystem functions were treated when encountered. Vegetation monitoring transects were established in A.donax removal areas to document the effectiveness of the different treatments and recovery of the plant communities. A.donax was reduced by over 90 percent after the first treatment and accounted for less than 2 percent absolute cover after three follow-up treatments. An experiment testing low cost methods for establishing woody species after A.donax control was conducted. Cuttings were installed with no follow-up maintenance. Approximately 30 percent of Baccharis salicifolia, and large (3-6 m) willow cuttings survived 2 years.
Lemke, J. (2002). "Environmental Excavation Saves Nature Area of Giant Reed." from http://www.forester.net/gx_0201_environmental.html.
Lowrey, J. and J. Watson (2004). Tamarisk and Arundo control on Cache Creek. Annual Meeting on Weed Management: Economic and Environmental Savings. Sacramento, California. 56: 82-83
Monheit, S., J. R. Leavitt, et al. (2004). "The Ecotoxicology of Surfactants Used With Glyphosate Based Herbicides." Noxious Times 6(2): 6-12, 14 (http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/ipc/noxioustimes/noxtimes_archives.htm).
This article is one of the first attempts to review the ecotoxicology of surfactants used with glyphosate. This is a follow-up to the Noxious Weeds Summer 2002 article titled “Glyphosate-Based Aquatic Herbicides. An Overview of Risk” By Susan Monheit, CDFA-IPC
Motamed, E. R., Antonia H.B.M. Witje (1998). Rooting by Stem Fragments From Hanging and Upright Stems of Giant Reed (Arundo donax). Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 69-70 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Mungaray, M. (2001). The use of geographic information systems in understanding invasive species in the Big Sur Weed Management Area, California State University Monterey Bay. Earth Systems Science and Policy Institute (http://capstone.csumb.edu/world/2001/mungaray_marc/mungaray_marc.pdf ).
Invasive species can rapidly and seriously degrade the quality of native vegetation communities by altering natural processes and reducing biodiversity. At the same time, control methods that land managers use can also affect the habitat. Land managers must determine which control method is most effective against the invasive species, while being the least damaging to the ecosystem. It is estimated that some 3,500 to 4,000 invasive species are currently infesting the United States (USFS, 1996). In hopes of preventing the spread of invasive species in the Los Padres National Forest as well as in the surrounding California State Parks of Monterey County, there has been a concerted effort to address the growing problem of invasive plant species. For this reason the formation of the Big Sur Weed Management Committee (BSWMC) was created. The BSWMA is a multi-agency task force committed to the control of invasive species within the Big Sur Weed Management Area (BSWMA). The Big Sur WMA is concerned with 8 specific species (See Appendix 1). Their origins are quite diverse and have growth forms ranging from perennial grasses to annual herbs to shrubs. To investigate the various factors associated with these invasive species, I have created a Geographic Information System (GIS) database. The database was created to map, interpret, and examine the areas of infestation within Monterey County and the Big Sur WMA. Database analysis revealed that there were high occurrences of infestation within 200m of Highway 1 as well as surrounding county and private roadsides. Primarily, infestations were discovered to be in soil type: Rock Outcrop / Xerothent. The majority of infestations were found on Southerly and Westerly facing aspects with slopes >31%. Areas of infestations occurred largely in areas classified as coastal mixed shrub much of which had experienced fairly recent fire activity. A weed hazard map was created based on a ranking system of these most significant commonalties found in current infestations. The weed hazard map created for the Big Sur Weed Management Area can be utilized as a tool for weed treatment, eradication, or prevention by indicating which areas are most at risk. In this same manner, the weed hazard map can also serve as a basis for strategic planning as a result of soil disturbances such as: landslide, wildfire, or road maintenance. It is hoped that the weed hazard map can serve as an additional tool in the on going war on invasive weeds in the Big Sur Weed Management Area.
Neill, B. (2006). "Low-Volume Foliar Treatment of Arundo Using Imazapyr." Cal-IPC News 14(1): 6-7, 11 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/resources/news/index.php).
Neill, B. a. J. G. (2001). Distributions of Arundo donax in coastal watersheds of Southern California. Proceedings, California Exotic Pest Plant Council Symposiums: Achievements and Challenges in Wildland Weed Management. M. K. Poster. Berkeley, CA, California Exotic Pest Plant Council. 6: 77-84 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
Newhouser, M., C. Cornwall, et al. (1999). Arundo: A Landowner Handbook. Sonoma CA, Sonoma Ecology Center and California State University, Sacramento, Media Services (http://teamarundo.org/education/index.html#handbook).
This reference guide is intended to educate landowners about the invasive weed Arundo donax, the reasons for eliminating it from watersheds, and techniques for its eradication. We recommend conducting your initial outreach with letters and brochures, and then targeting the handbooks to specific landowners.
Newhouser, M., C. Cornwall, et al. (1999). Controlling Arundo in Your Watershed: A Guide for Organizations. Sonoma CA, Sonoma Ecology Center and California State University, Sacramento, Media Services (http://teamarundo.org/education/org_guide.pdf).
This is a primer for organizations that wish to start an Arundo eradication program in their watershed. These include nonprofits, government agencies, and Resource Conservation Districts, as well as restoration companies working with such organizations. Groups working to control and eliminate other non-native invasive species from riparian areas can also use this guide. Contents: Working with landowners, addressing landowner concerns, negotiating an eradication agreement, working with volunteers and other stakeholders, eradication techniques, prevention and public outreach, Arundo identification, additional resources, landowner agreement. Also includes a sample landowner-contractor agreement.
Newhouser, M., C. Cornwall, et al. (2000). Arundo: Streamside Invader, Sonoma Ecology Center, and Media Services California State University, Sacramento (http://teamarundo.org/education/index.html#handbook).
An introductory brochure appropriate for landowners, nonprofits, or agencies that summarizes the threats Arundo poses to California's streams and rivers, and offers ways to get involved in controlling and eliminating this highly invasive weed.
Oakins, A. J. (2001). An assessment and management protocol for Arundo donax in the Salinas Valley Watershed, California State University, Monterey Bay. Earth Systems Science & Policy Institute (http://teamarundo.org/control_manage/docs/oakins_alana.pdf).
Arundo donax is an invasive non-native perennial grass indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Arundo was introduced to California by Spanish settlers in the 1800's and today is invading riparian habitats of North America, specifically in California. In fact, the California Exotic Plant Pest Council (CalEPPC) has included Arundo donax as one of the top five species of concern because of the associated environmental problems such as flood-control, fire-hazard, critical habitat loss, water quality, and water conservation. This study aimed: 1) to discuss the most effective management methods of Arundo donax infestations and the appropriate methods for restoring native vegetation in riparian areas, 2) to answer whether Arundo can be differentiated from similar riparian vegetation using remote sensing, which is the first step in any assessment protocol for the Arundo invasion in the Salinas Valley Watershed, and 3) to develop a policy recommendation for the Arundo invasion of Monterey County, California that is primarily based on ethics and history. Overall, this study is an assessment and management protocol for Arundo donax in the Salinas Valley Watershed. This study found that the most effective methods in eradicating Arundo are the foliar 2-5% herbicide application method and the cut stump 100% herbicide application method. In developing a basis for an assessment protocol, this study found that Arundo can be differentiated from similar riparian vegetation on high-resolution digital Color-IR imagery. It appeared that after an unsupervised classification was completed on the Color-IR that Arundo was most similar to willow. Furthermore, from the supervised classification, this study found that Arundo is significantly different than willows in their designated reflectance properties. As such, remote sensing can be a useful tool in mapping the extent of the Arundo invasion in the Salinas Valley. The final result of this study concerning the policy recommendation is that before Monterey County can begin to deal with its Arundo environmental problems, there should be a complete understanding of why the county is even faced with Arundo. Also, there should be a collaborative effort, including the private and public sectors of Monterey County, in the management and eradication of Arundo. And finally, in determining the appropriate policy for Monterey County through collaborative action, look to examples as a guide where the implementation of Arundo policies have been successful. Since Monterey County has proposed a countywide Invasive Weed Management Plan, this study recommends that Arundo be included for immediate assessment and management before the Arundo invasion becomes problematic in the Salinas River and its Watershed.
Peck, G. G. (1998). Hydroponic Growth Characteristics of Arundo donax L. Under Salt Stress. Arundo and Salt Cedar: The Deadly Duo, A Workshop on Combating the Threat from Arundo and Salt Cedar. C. E. Bell. Ontario, CA, University of California Cooperative Extension, Imperial County: 71-72 (http://teamarundo.org/ecology_impacts/Proc98/proc98_index.html).
Quinn, L. and J. Holt (2003). Invasibility of Experimental Riparian Communities by Arundo donax. Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium: Planning Weed Management for Ecosystem Recovery. C. Pirosko. Berkeley, CA, California Invasive Plant Council. 7: 60 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
Invasibility of experimental riparian communities by Arundo donax
Quinn, Lauren and Jodie Holt Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California, Riverside <lquinn@citrus.ucr.edu>
As invasive plants enter new areas, they necessarily interact with resident plant communities. Several researchers have found a link between the functional diversity of a resident plant community and its invasibility. This study investigates the role of functional diversity in experimentally constructed riparian communities in regulating invasibility by Arundo donax L. Two experiments, differing only in planting density, were conducted simultaneously in an agricultural field at the University of California, Riverside. Three native riparian species (Salix goodingii, Baccharis salicifolia, and Scirpus americanus) representing three putative functional groups, were planted six to a plot in all combinations (seven community treatments). These communities were allowed to establish for 14 months before A. donax rhizomes were introduced into half of the plots in each experiment. A. donax was expected to invade more readily into single-species low-density plots and less readily into three-species high-density plots. Shoot emergence timing and shoot height for A. donax were monitored until senescence. In the first season, A. donax shoot emergence timing was not different when the two experiments were compared. Number of days to shoot emergence was significantly different among community treatments (p=0.008), and was greatest in single- or two-species plots containing B. salicifolia. Shoot growth rate was significantly greater (p=0.04) in the low-density experiment than in the high-density experiment, and was lower in single- or two-species plots containing B. salicifolia than in all other plot types. A. donax shoots emerged quickly and grew rapidly in "diverse" plots containing all three species. These data suggest that the establishment of A. donax is influenced by community composition, and that diverse communities may be more invasible than some simpler ones. The poor performance of A. donax in plots containing B. salicifolia may provide support for use of this species in riparian restoration following A. donax removal.
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Biofuel crops, particularly using non-native species, must be introduced with an understanding of possible risks to the environment.
Rauterkus, M. and J. Holt (2003). Seasonal Activity and Impacts of Arundo donax. Proceedings of the California Invasive Plant Council Symposium: Planning Weed Management for Ecosystem Recovery. C. Pirosko. Kings Beach, California, California Invasive Plant Council. 7: 61 (http://www.cal-ipc.org/symposia/archive/index.php#2002).
The seasonal physiological activity of Arundo donax and its impact on riparian systems was studied using both common garden experiments and a field survey. A. donax is a perennial species that exhibits a high rate of growth. To quantify its seasonal physiological activity, A. donax was collected from the northern, central, and southern regions of California and planted in a common garden experiment at the University of California at Riverside. The photosynthetic rate of A. donax was measured twice a month for eight months. A. donax's average carbon assimilation rate varied from a low of 16.713 µmol CO2/m2/s to a high of 39.358 µmol CO2/m2/s and, to this point, appears to correlate (R2 = 0.8446) more closely with the low temperature on the day that it was measured rather than the high temperature or calendar date. To test the hypothesis that A. donax alters the abiotic conditions of the environment , which in a manner that favors its own success, a field survey was conducted along two watersheds in southern California. Six permanent transects were set up perpendicular to the river at each site. Monthly measurements of soil temperature, soil moisture, vegetation cover, and light intensity displayed little difference between points with and without the presence of A. donax. Thus, data collected to date indicates that A. donax can remain physiologically active throughout the year. Research is ongoing to identify its physiological impacts in riparian habitats.
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(Abstract) Invasions of exotic organisms can have dramatic damaging effects on native communities and habitats. Once exotic species are established they can be difficult to remove. However, if detected soon after initial invasion they can be eradicated. A guide was created for 22 "Least Wanted!" invaders for the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. Species were chosen based on factors such as proximity to the slough, potential damage, and ease of identification. These cards were distributed to community members and volunteers who will monitor the slough for these key species. A computer database was created and can be expanded as new species are found or removal efforts made. Local marine related organizations were contacted about the possibility of integrating this type of prevention project into their invasive species policies. A protocol for future similar projects was also created. Distribution of these cards and expansion of this project will hopefully reduce the negative effects of aquatic invasions in Elkhorn Slough.
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Arundo donax is a tall perennial reed. Once established, it spreads by producing new shoots (ramets) from rhizomes. We performed two separate experiments to test the hypotheses that temperature (7, 8, 14, 16, or 20 °C) and combinations of temperature and nitrate concentration (0, 0.3, 0.6,1.2, 2.4, 3.6, 4.8, and 6.0 mg/l nitrate) regulated the initiation of ramet production. No ramets emerged from rhizome sections at 7 or 8 °C, but ramets emerged at 14, 16, and 20 °C. Neither time to ramet emergence nor the number of ramets that emerged was influenced by nitrate level in the watering solution. We used the above results in combination with ramet emergence data from plants grown outdoors at Davis, California to develop degree-day equations for three separate ramet cohorts. When compared to ramet emergence from different plants in different years, there was very good agreement between predicted and actual ramet emergence indicating that these equations provide a realistic representation of processes involved in ramet emergence. This is an important step in developing integrated management plans for this species.
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The Santa Ana River (SAR) watershed encompasses about 3,200 square miles, comprising the largest river system in coastal southern California (Figure 1). Human development and activities in the watershed have greatly reduced the floodplain and associated habitats and deleteriously affected the river's natural function and processes.
The purpose of the Santa Ana River Watershed Program is to gradually restore as much of the natural function of the river as possible, thereby maximizing the natural resources supported by this river system. This report describes the current Santa Ana River Watershed Program in 2000-2002, which focused on the control of invasive weeds especially Arundo donax (giant reed) and Tamarix (saltcedar) as well as the restoration of wetland habitat, management of endangered species, and public