Development of best strategies for the control of flowering rush in Alberta

Invasive plants represent a major threat to the economy and environment, with annual economic costs in North America estimated at $30-40 billion CDN. Aquatic invasives rank among the most destructive, affecting recreational activities such as boating, fishing and swimming, displacing native vegetation, slowing down water flow and altering oxygen levels. Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus) is an aquatic invasive plant species that is currently forming dense stands that interfere with recreational lake use and water availability in Alberta. Here, we propose to gather data on the most effective control strategies for flowering rush, including novel control methods that incorporate elements of the native vegetation. We will determine what factors of combinations of control methods affect the spread of invasive species to train applied biologists and promote the best policies for the control of healthy aquatic ecosystems in Alberta.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jana Vamosi

Student:

Lisa Cahoon

Partner:

Western Irrigation District

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University:

University of Calgary