Aerial Herbicide Application to Control Buckthorn at Green Point Environmental Learning Center
Saginaw, MI – This fall, herbicide will be applied from helicopter to the forests surrounding Green Point Environmental Learning Center, located at 3010 Maple Street, Saginaw, MI. A specific date is not set for the application, as it is dependent on weather conditions, but the application will take place between late October and early November. The timing of the treatment is designed to minimize impacts to native trees while targeting common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), which retains its foliage later in the year than native species.
Last year, a pilot treatment took place in the same location. This year’s application will continue to refine the process of buckthorn control via aerial application, which is a novel control method for this species in this area.
Common buckthorn was introduced from Europe to North America, where its lack of natural enemies and aggressive growth gives it a competitive advantage over native plant species. Common buckthorn is also allelopathic, meaning it releases chemicals that attack other plants. In the Green Point area, common buckthorn has formed a dense thicket throughout the understory, excluding native plants and reducing biodiversity. Additionally, common buckthorn is harmful to native wildlife. Its berries contain laxatives that can cause dehydration and nutrient loss in native birds, and it emits a toxin that can harm native amphibians.
The herbicide being used to control buckthorn contains the active ingredient triclopyr. The methods of application, concentrations, and other aspects of herbicide use are consistent with the standards set by the product label. To avoid the risk of exposure, we ask that visitors do not enter the Green Point area or use any nearby trails during the application or for 24 hours afterwards.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the refuge at (989) 777-5930 or Shiawassee@fws.gov. Further information about SNWR can be found on our refuge website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Shiawassee/.
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