Invasive plant monitoring, control and eradication at Bandon Marsh NWR
Invasive plants are one of the most frequently cited threats to biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health within the National Wildlife Refuge System because of their negative impact on habitat structure, species composition, and overall function of ecological communities. The refuge collaborates with partners on the eradication of Gorse and other high priority noxious weeds. Annual inventories and the application of control methods to eradicate noxious weeds are a high priority activity at Bandon Marsh NWR.
Annually, refuge staff map the location of known invasive plants. Based on a set of prioritized weeds, control methods are applied. In addition to mapping, monitoring and controlling existing weed species, the refuge staff also conduct surveys in all refuge habitat types to identify new pioneer species of concern. This method enables early detection of highly concerning species so that a rapid response for eradication can be applied.
