Stantec performed invasive common reed grass herbicide treatments within the Project Area on behalf of LNRP with support of their WDNR AIS Early Detection and Response grant funding. Treatments were initiated in fall 2013 to treat monocultures of invasive common reed grass observed during a site reconnaissance visit performed in November, 2012. Total invasive common reed grass acreage within the Project Area was initially estimated at 3.5 acres. Follow-up treatments were performed in 2014 and 2015 to target re-growth and newly-identified populations. The location and approximate number of stems were recorded annually during the follow-up treatments in an effort to evaluate the previous year’s success (Figures 2 and 3). A significant decrease in the number of invasive common reed grass stems was noted in many of the populations; however, most populations required some level of follow-up treatment annually. Additionally, new populations continued to emerge adjacent to actively treated areas. In order to successfully control invasive common reed grass for the long term, Stantec recommends LNRP continue monitoring the Project Area for invasive common reed grass and perform ongoing, long term treatment to continue the efforts initiated as part of this project.

A final report summarizing the three-year project will be provided to the DNR by December 31, 2015.