Progress 07/17/13 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience is forest landowners and natural resource management professionals (foresters, loggers, wildlife biologists). Given that non-native plants used in landscaping are a major source of invasive plant propagules that invade forests, a secondary audience is homeowners, the general public and K-12 educators. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Attending regional invasive plant conferences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through conferences, talks and workshops, production of Extension publications, peer reviewed journal articles, an Extension webpage (http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/invasive-species/plants-trees.php) , a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Alabama-Extension-Invasive-Plant-Page-519499831400602/?ref=hl), contributions of invasive plant photos to invasive.org and through day-to-day interactions with Extension colleagues, and the public through phone calls and email. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Non-native invasive plants pose a threat to productivity and sustainability of southern forests and the viability of several native ecosystems in Alabama. Over the past five years 105 educational events, workshops, conferences and professional meetings were held, where over 5500 landowners, forest professionals and other concerned citizens increased their knowledge of invasive plant identification and control. In terms of indirect contacts, contributions were made to statewide and regional publications reaching well over 50,000 forest landowners and professionals. Contributions were also made to four websites, providing information and photographs regarding invasive plant species in Alabama and the southeast. Each year there were typically over 250,000 hits to this on-line content. A Facebook page (Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page) was initiated in 2012 and continues to grow, reaching 900 likes at the end of 2016. Typically 2-5 posts are made per month, with a 'total reach' on posts of over 31,000 in 2016. Thirteen extension/outreach publications and six peer reviewed publications were produced, and thousands of copies of the of the co-authored book 'A Field Guide for the Identification of Invasive Plants in Southern Forests' were distributed throughout the Southeast. This publication is now out of print but is available on-line and as a phone app developed by colleagues at the University of Georgia. RREA funding was leveraged as PI or Co-PI on five separate grants directed toward extension/outreach and demonstration/research. These grants totaled $203,000. Our educational events are very well received, reaching landowners and natural resource professionals managing millions of acres of Alabama forestland. Most of the educational events are in response to an invitation to speak, indicating that information on the topic of invasive plants is sought after. The majority of meeting attendees report an increase in knowledge and that they plan to use the information received. The highlight of our programming is the annual Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) conference, which we co-chair. Each of the past 5 years, between 100 and 150 forest landowners, state and federal agency personnel and forest management professionals have attended the annual ALIPC conference to obtain the latest information regarding invasive plant identification, ecology and control. To better gauge the impact of our programing, an on-line survey was sent to several hundred attendees of past annual ALIPC conferences. Ninety-eight percent of the respondents (n= 65) indicated that their knowledge of invasive plant biology and management has increased since attending one or more of our annual meetings. Notably, fifty percent of these respondents indicated that their knowledge had increased substantially. Furthermore, nearly 85% of respondents indicated that they have adopted new invasive plant control strategies based on what they have learned at meetings. The survey showed a wide range in the degree of invasive plant infestation on the 2.6 million acres of land under management of the respondents, and in the percentage of infested area that is treated. However, approximately 40% of respondents indicated that they were treating 25% or more of their infested acreage. Respondents indicated that the greatest impediments to invasive plant control are adequate funds, labor and time. The Continuing Education Credits offered at many events are highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource professionals across the state. Partnering with colleagues in Extension, the Alabama Invasive Plant Council and the American Forest Foundation leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stake holders state wide. Serving in a leadership roles in ALIPC, SE-EPPC and NA-EPPC also provided opportunities to contribute to invasive plant issues and activities at a regional and national level. On-line publications and articles and those distributed at educational events and to extension offices statewide provide landowners and forest professionals with additional up-to-date, practical information regarding invasive plant identification, impacts and control. On average there are over 250,000 views of this on-line material each year, indicating significant interest in this material and that it is reaching a substantial audience. Viewers may have learned how to identify an invasive plant, how to control cogongrass, Chinese privet or kudzu, or how to more effectively apply herbicides for invasive plant control. How many follow through on this information is unknown, but our surveys show that once provided with the 'know-how' many will follow through if the resources to do so are available.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pile, L.S., Loewenstein, N.J., Wheeler, G.S. and Coyle, D.R. 2016. Chinese Tallowtree Biology and Management in Southeastern US Forests. SREF-FH-005. (peer reviewed)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Loewenstein, N.J. and Enloe, S.E. 2013. Eastern Baccharis (Baccharis halimifolia) Identification and Control. Timely Information https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TIS%20eastern%20baccharis%20-%20final.pdf
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Loewenstein, N.J. and Enloe, S.F. 2013. Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum) Identification and Control. Timely Information Sheet, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TIS%20tropical%20soda%20apple-final.pdf
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Loewenstein, N.S. and Smith, D. 2016. Invasive Plants: Exotic Beauties can Have Devastating Results, FOR-2043.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Loewenstein, N. and Enloe, S. 2015. Management Options for Chinese Tallowtree. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2232. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Loewenstein, N. and Enloe, S. 2015. Kudzu Control in Forests, Rights of Way and Natural Areas. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2249. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2014. Cogongrass Management FAQ. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2230. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2014. Kudzu Control in Residential Areas. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2168. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Loewenstein, N.J., Roth, F., Wade, L. 2014. A Key to Common Native Trees of Alabama, ANR-0509. 16 p. (comprehensive revision)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2013. Control Options for Chinese Privet. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1468. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Cain, D. 2013. Cut Stump Herbicide Treatments for Invasive Plant Control. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1465. 2 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Kelly, W. and Brodbeck, A. 2013. Basal Bark Treatments for Invasive Plants in Pastures, Natural Areas, and Forests. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1466. 2 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Marable, A.C., Smith, M.D. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2013. Touch Me Nots: Recognizing and Avoiding Poisonous Plants of Alabama ANR-1460, 8 pp.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
" Enloe, S.F., OSullivan, S.E., Loewenstein, N.J., Brantley, E.F. and Lauer, D.K. 2016. Triclopyr application timing and concentration influence low volume basal bark efficacy on Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense). Invasive Plant Science and Management 9(4): 235-241.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
" Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Streett, D. and Lauer, S.K. 2015. Herbicide treatment and application method influence root sprouting in Chinese tallowtree (Triadica sebifera). Invasive Plant Science and Management 8(2):160-168.
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
" Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. (2015) Eradication: Identifying the Last Resort as a First Step. Chapter 10 in: Bioenergy and Biological Invasions: Ecological, Agronomic and Policy Perspectives on Minimising Risk, CABI.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
" Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Held, D. and Eckhardt, L. 2013. Impacts of prescribed fire, glyphosate, and seeding on cogongrass, species richness and species diversity in longleaf pine. Invasive Plant Science and Management 6(4):536-544.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
" Sells, S.M., Held, D.H., Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J. and Eckhardt, L.G. 2015. Impact of cogongrass management strategies on generalist predators in cogongrass infested longleaf pine plantations. Pest Management Science 71(3):478-484.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
" Aulakh, J.S., Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Price, A.J., Wehtje, G. and Miller, J.H. 2014. Pushing towards cogongrass patch eradication: the influence of herbicide treatment and application timing on cogongrass rhizome elimination. Invasive Plant Science and Management 7(3): 398-407.
|
Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audiences include forest landowners, forestry andnatural resource professionals (from private entities as well as state and federal agencies), homeowners and gardeners, and K-12 natural resource educators. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Attending various state and regional workshops and conferences. A highlight in 2016 was attending the Yale 'Tools for Engaging Landowners Effectively' workshop. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through conferences, talks and workshops, production of Extension publications, peer reviewed journal articles, an Extension webpage (http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/invasive-species/plants-trees.php) , a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Alabama-Extension-Invasive-Plant-Page-519499831400602/?ref=hl), contributions of invasive plant photos to invasive.org and through day-to-day interactions with Extension colleagues, and the public through phone calls and email. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Five year project is closing this year.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Summary and Key Outcomes: Invasive plants pose a threat to forest productivity, forest management options, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, ecosystem functioning, ecosystem services, and biodiversity in Alabama forests. Landowner education, along with collaboration with state and local agencies andnatural resource professionals is key to improving the health of Alabama forests through reducing the impacts and spread of invasive plants. Over 1350 people attended twenty six educational events provided in 2016, with 5906 attending 104 events offered over the past five years. Most of the educational events were provided in response to an invitation to speak, indicating that information on the topic of invasive plants is relevant and sought after.The scope and impact of our educational programming is highlighted by the annual Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) conference which we co-chair. Yearly attendance at the conference (including in 2016) is around 140 people. Over the past five years, 700 people have attended the annual ALIPC conference witha significant proportion attending yearly. Ninety-eight percent of respondents of a 2013 survey sent to attendees of ALIPC conferences indicated that their knowledge of invasive plant biology and management has increased since attending one or more of these meetings and many have adopted new control strategies based on this knowledge. Typically 2.5-3 million acres of forestland is under ownership or management of attendees of each of the annual meetings. According to the survey, the extent of invasive plant infestations on these lands varied widely, as did the percentage of infested area being treated. However, approximately 40% of respondents indicated that they were treating 25% or more of their infested acreage. Respondents indicated that the greatest impediments to invasive plant control are adequate funds, labor and time. Respondents of the survey and of post meeting evaluations also show that the Continuing Education Credits (Pesticide Recertification, Continuing Forestry Education, and Professional Logging Management) offered at the ALIPC conference and other meetings are highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource professionals across the state. Extension publications were also prepared to provide up-to-date information about invasive plant identification and control to constituents across the state. Two publications were co-authored in 2016, with an additional 15 published over the past five years. Individuals can access information at their own convenience via our Extension website, on-line publications,Facebook page,and on-line photographs. There were over 540,000 views (31,400 visits) of this on-line material in 2016, indicating significant interest in the material and that it is reaching a substantial audience. Viewers may have learned how to identify an invasive plant, how to control Chinese tallowtree, cogongrass, Chinese privet or kudzu, or how to more effectively apply herbicides. How many follow through on this information is difficult to ascertain, but surveys show that once provided with the 'know-how', many will follow through if the resources to do so are available. Objective 1: Develop educational program materials that include identification guides, weed alerts, and management and control strategies. Over 1350 citizens, landowners, and forestry and other natural resource professionals participated in 26 educational events that included seminars, workshops, field days and a major conference. Many of these events provided Continuing Education Credits. A regional publication on Chinese tallowtree was co-authored in collaboration with Southern Region Extension Forestry and an Invasive Plant brochure aimed primarily at the landscaping public was written in collaboration with Master Gardeners and the Auburn University Davis Arboretum. Two peer-reviewed publications (one on Chinese privet control and one on impacts of cogongrass) were accepted for publication. Contributions were made to three websites providing invasive plant information and photographs. The audience for our Facebook page - Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page - continues to grow, with nearly 900 likes and a combined reach of 29,144 on posted stories. In 2016, as in each of the past 5 years, approximately 120-125 phone calls, emails and in-person interactions with client contacts, primarily addressing plant identification and invasive plant control were addressed. Turning Point, an interactive power point tool, is used for many talks, allowing for more engagement from the audience and instant feedback on audience perceptions and change in knowledge. Evaluations show that significant acreage is under ownership and/or management of attendees and that most attendees have increased their knowledge and plan to utilize presented management tools and information if time and resources are available. Extension publications received 27,055 on-line visits (524,868 views) and were distributed at educational events. There were over 13,330 views of other online content and 217 downloads of images provided to the Bugwood site. Downloaded images are used in educational products across the country. The few remaining copies of the 4th printing of the co-authored book 'A Field Guide for the Identification of Invasive Plants in Southern Forests' (August 2010) were distributed this year. Although highly sought after and frequently referenced, this publication is now out of print due to lack of funding. An on-line version of the book is available as well as a free app through the University of Georgia Bugwood network. There were 2420 visits of the online material and 3543 downloads of the app in 2016, with a total of 19,627 copies downloaded to date. Objective 2: Create and/or continue participation in state-level partnerships with relevant public and private sector organizations to address issued related to assessment, planning, management and control, research and education. Partnering with Extension colleagues within the state and region, the Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC), the National Association of Invasive Plant Councils (NAIPC), Southern Region Extension Forestry (SREF) and the American Forest Foundation leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and stake-holders state-wide and beyond. Collaboration with the Alabama Forest Foundation during 2015-2016 on the 'My Alabama Woods' project provided opportunities for providing information about sustainable forest management, the shortleaf pine initiative and eradication of invasive plants to forest landowners in northeast Alabama. Serving as the Executive Director of ALIPC (since 2010) serves to maintain continuity and momentum within the organization. Serving in leadership roles in the NAIPC provided opportunities to be involved with invasive plant issues and activities at a national level (including involvement with organizing seven invasive plant webinars) and to share timely information with colleagues at the state and local level. Participation continued in a national task force to develop an ASTM standard for producing invasive plant lists. Collaboration with Alabama Cooperative Extension System colleagues was reflected in providing talks at workshops and sharing power point presentations for use in educational events across the state. Use of the University of Georgia and Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council's on-line mapping tool EDDMapS was encouraged at talks and on Facebook.
Publications
|
Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15
Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience is forest landowners, natural resource professionals (private and government), natural resource educators and the general public. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Attendance of various state and regional workshops. Serving on the board of the National Association of Invasive Plant Councils. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through conferences, talks, field toursand workshops, production of Extension publications, peer reviewed journal articles, an Extension webpage (http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/invasive-species/plants-trees.php) , a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Alabama-Extension-Invasive-Plant-Page-519499831400602/?ref=hl), contributions of invasive plant photos to www.invasive.org and through day-to-day interactions with Extension colleagues, and the public through phone calls and email. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue with current approach. This will involve co-chairing the annual Alabama Invasive Plant Council conference, speaking at educational events upon request, developing extension materials, maintaining the ACES invasive plant webpage and Facebook page, and collaborating withcolleagues at Auburn University, ACES, American ForestFoundation, Alabama Invasive Plant Council, Alabama Forestry Commission and others on invasive plant issues.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Summary: Invasive plants pose a threat to forest productivity, forest management options, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, ecosystem functioning, ecosystem services, and biodiversity. Landowner education, along with collaboration with state and local agencies andnatural resource professionals is key to improving the health of Alabama forests through reducing the impacts and spread of invasive plants. The scope and impact of our educational programming is highlighted by the annual Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) conference. An estimated 3 million acres were under ownership or management of the 130 attendees, most of whom indicated the intention of utilizing the tools and informationprovided at the meeting. These attendees arefairly representative of the 1228 attendees of 20 additionaleducational events provided throughout the year. Continuing Education Credits (Pesticide Recertification, Continuing Forestry Education and Professional Logging Management) offered at many meetings are highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource professionals across the state. Individuals can also access information about invasive plants at their own convenience via our Extension website, numerous on-line publications,Facebook page,and on-line photographs. There were over 428,000 views of this on-line material, indicating significant interest in the material and that it is reaching a substantial audience. Viewers may have learned how to identify an invasive plant, how to control Chinese tallowtree, cogongrass, Chinese privet or kudzu, or how to more effectively apply herbicides. How many follow through on this information is unknown, but surveys show that once provided with the 'know-how', many will follow through if the resources to do so are available. Objective 1: Develop educational program materials that include identification guides, weed alerts, and management and control strategies. Over 1350 citizens, landowners, and forestry professionals participated in 21 educational events that included seminars, workshops, field days and a major conference. Many of these events provided Continuing Education Credits. Four extension publications were co-authored and two peer-reviewed journal articles and a book chapter were published. Contributions were made to three websites providing invasive plant information and photographs. The audience for our Facebook page - Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page - continues to grow, with 645 likes and a combined reach of 24,162 on posted stories. There were approximately 100 phone calls, emails and in-person interactions with client contacts, primarily addressing plant identification and invasive plant control. Turning Point, an interactive power point tool, is used for many talks, allowing for more engagement from the audience and instant feedback on audience perceptions and change in knowledge. This is especially useful for invited talks where post-meeting surveys are often not feasible. When meeting evaluations are used, questions include: was the information provided new and useful, did knowledge about the topic increase; do you plan to use information gained, and how many acres do you own or manage? Evaluations show that significant acreage is under ownership and/or management of attendees and that most attendees plan to utilize presented management tools and information. This information is not available for all programs, but data from the Alabama Invasive Plant Council meeting showed an estimated 3 million acres under ownership or management of attendees. Surveys show that the greatest impediment to invasive plant control are the lack of adequate funds, lack of labor and lack of time. Extension publications received 5902 on-line visits, 380,921 views and were distributed at educational events. There were over 47,426 views of other online content and 188 image downloads. Downloaded images are used in educational products across the country. Region wide, thousands of copies of 'A Field Guide for the Identification of Invasive Plants in Southern Forests' (now in its 4th printing) were distributed, with 7750 on-line views of the book and 2743 downloads of the fee app version available through the University of Georgia Bugwood network. Key outcomes: Our educational events are very well received, reaching landowners and natural resource professionals that manage millions of acres of Alabama forestland. Most of the educational events are in response to an invitation to speak, indicating that information on the topic of invasive plants is sought after. The majority of meeting attendees indicate that they plan to use the information received and surveys indicate that many have adopted new invasive plant control strategies based on what they have learned at meetings. The Continuing Education Credits offered at many events are highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource professionals across the state. Partnering with colleagues in Extension, the Alabama Invasive Plant Council and the American Forest Foundation leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stake holders state wide. On-line and print publications, our website and Facebook page provided landowners and forestry professionals with up-to-date, practical information about invasive plant identification, impacts and control. Objective 2: Create and/or continue participation in state-level partnerships with relevant public and private sector organizations to address issued related to assessment, planning, management and control, research and education. Partnering with the Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC), the National Association of Invasive Plant Councils (NAIPC) and the American Forest Foundation leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and stake-holders state-wide and beyond. Collaboration with the Alabama Forest Foundation during 2015-2016 on the 'My Alabama Woods' project allows interaction with 12,000 landowners in northeast Alabama, providing information about sustainable forest management, the shortleaf pine initiative and eradication of invasive plants. Serving as the Executive Director of ALIPC serves to maintain continuity and momentum within the organization. Serving in leadership roles in the NAIPC provided opportunities to be involved with invasive plant issues and activities at a national level and to share timely information with colleagues at the state and local level. Participation continued in a national task force to develop an ASTM standard for producing invasive plant lists. Collaboration with Alabama Cooperative Extension System colleagues was reflected in providing talks at workshops and sharing power point presentations for use in educational events across the state. Use of the University of Georgia and Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council's on-line mapping tool EDDMapS was encouraged at talks and on Facebook.
Publications
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. (2015) Eradication: Identifying the Last Resort as a First Step. Chapter 10 in: Bioenergy and Biological Invasions: Ecological, Agronomic and Policy Perspectives on Minimising Risk, CABI.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Sells, S.M., Held, D.H., Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J. and Eckhardt, L.G. 2015. Impact of cogongrass management strategies on generalist predators in cogongrass infested longleaf pine plantations. Pest Management Science 71(3):478-484.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Loewenstein, N. and Enloe, S. 2015. Kudzu Control in Forests, Rights of Way and Natural Areas. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2249. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Loewenstein, N. and Enloe, S. 2015. Management Options for Chinese Tallowtree. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2232. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2014. Cogongrass Management FAQ. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2230. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Loewenstein, N., Enloe, S., Everest, J., Miller, J., Ball, D. and Patterson, M. 2014. History and Use of Kudzu in the Southeastern United States. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2221. 4 p.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Streett, D. and Lauer, S.K. 2015. Herbicide treatment and application method influence root sprouting in Chinese tallowtree (Triadica sebifera). Invasive Plant Science and Management 8(2):160-168.
|
Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Target Audience: Our target audience is forest landowners, natural resource professionals (private and government) and the general public. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Attendance of the regionalSoutheast Exotic Pest Plant Council Annual Conference How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been dissemintated through conferences, seminars, talks and workshops, production of Extension publications, peer reviewed journal articles, updated Extension webpage, Facebook page, contribution to invasive plant photos on www.invasive.org, and through day-to-day interactions with the public through phone calls and email. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Invasive plants pose an increasing threat to forest productivity, forest management options, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, ecosystem functioning, ecosystem services and biodiversity. Forest Inventory Analysis data (USDA Forest Service) indicate that over 4.2 million acres, or 19%, of Alabama’s 22 million acres of forestland are occupied by non-native invasive species. Landowner education, along with collaboration with state and local agencies and natural resource professionals is key to reducing the impacts and spread of invasive plants and to thereby improve the health of Alabama forests. An example of the scope and impact of our educational programming is provided by the two Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) meetings which we co-organized in FY2014. Over 3.5 million acres were under ownership or management of the 155 attendees, and most indicated an intention to use information provided at the meeting. An additional 750 landowners, natural resource professionals, students and citizens attended 12 other seminars, meetings or workshops. The Continuing Education Credits (Pesticide Recertification, Continuing Forestry Education, and Professional Logging Management) offered at many meetings are also highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource managers across the state. Individuals can also access information about invasive plants at their own convenience using our revised and updated webpage, numerous on-line publications, our Facebook page, and invasive plant photographs posted on the national www.invasive.org webpage. There were over 300,000 views of this on-line material, indicating significant interest in this material and that it is reaching a substantial audience. Viewers may have learned how to identify an invasive plant, how to control cogongrass, Chinese privet or kudzu, or how to more effectively apply herbicides for invasive plant control. How many follow through on this information is unknown, but our surveys show that once provided with the ‘know-how’ many will follow through if the resources to do so are available. Objective 1: Develop educational program materials that include identification guides, weed alerts, and management and control strategies. Over 800 citizens, landowners and forest professionals participated in 14 educational events including seminars, workshops, field days, and a major conference. Many of these events provided opportunity for Continuing Education Credits. Four Extension publications were co-authored. A peer-reviewed article on cogongrass control research was published, two were accepted and another is in review. Contributions were made to three websites providing invasive plant information and photographs.Our Facebook page (Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page) continues to grow, garnering over 350 ‘likes’ with a reach of over 5000 on posted stories. There were approximately 100 phone calls, emails and personal interactions with client contacts, primarily addressing plant identification and invasive plant control. A peer review was provided for the NPS's Natural Resource Report: Invasive Plant Management Planning: Technical Considerations. A section on invasive plant ID and control was taught to AuburnUniversity forestry and wildlife students. We are using Turning Point, an interactive Power Point product for many talks. This provides instant feedback on audience perceptions and changes in knowledge, and isuseful for invited talks where post-meetingsurveys are often not feasible. When meetingevaluations are used, questions include: was information new and useful,didtheprogramincrease your knowledge about the topic,do you plan to use the tools, information or skills from this program, and how many acres do you own or manage.Evaluations show that meetings and presentations are very well received and that the majority of attendees intend to use presented management tools and information. Post meeting evaluations also indicate that a significant amount of acreage is under ownership or management of attendees. This information is not available for all programs, but data from just two meetingsshowed over 3.5 million acresunder ownership or management of attendees.Continuing Education Credits offered at these meetings (Pesticide Recertification, Continuing Forestry Education, and Professional Logging Management) are also highly valued. Surveysshow that the greatest impediments to invasive plant control are adequate funds, labor and time. Extension publications received over 5000 online visits, 267,235 views and were distributed at educational events. There wereover 18,300 views of other online content and 480 image downloads, many of which were used for invasive plant educational products across the country. Thousands of copies of ‘A Field Guide for the Identification of Invasive Plants in Southern Forests’ were distributed, and there were 5140 on-line views, 3,108 downloads, and 11,835 upgrades of the free app version available through the Univ of Georgia Bugwood network. Key Outcomes: Our educational events are very well received, reaching landowners and natural resource professionals that manage millions of acres of Alabama forestland. The majority of attendees at these meetings indicate that they plan to use the information received, and surveys indicate that many have adopted new invasive plant control strategies based on what they have learned at meetings. The Continuing Education Credits offered at many meetings are also highly valued and contribute to professional development of natural resource managers across the state. Partnering with colleagues in Extension and the Alabama Invasive Plant Council leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stakeholders state-wide. On-line publications and those distributed at educational events and extension offices statewide provided landowners and forest professionals with up-to-date, practical information about invasive plant identification, impacts and control. Objective 2: Create and/or continue participation in state-level partnerships with relevant public and private sector organizations to address issues related to assessment, planning, management and control, research, and education. Partnering with colleagues in the Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stakeholders state-wide. ALIPCis a non-profit organization under the umbrella of the Southeast Exotic Pest Plant (SE-EPPC). Partnering with ALIPC leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stake-holders state-wide. Serving as the Executive Director serves to maintain continuity and momentum of the organization. Serving in a leadership roles in ALIPC, SE-EPPC and NA-EPPC provided opportunities to contribute to invasive plant issues and activities at a national level. Participated on a national task force to develop an ASTM standard for producing invasive plant lists.The standard will establish minimum procedures for creating a list of plants that are invasive to a defined geographical region based on an assessment of the current environmental harm and risk of future environmental harm posed by those plants. Adraft ASTM standard has been revised and is on its way through the process of approval. Requests by colleagues for use of power point presentations for use in educational programming across the state are readily accepted. Use of EDDMapS was encouraged by during a workshop at the annual ALIPC meeting and through posts to the Facebook page.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Loewenstein, NJ and Enloe, SF. 2013. Eastern Baccharis (Baccharis halimifolia) Identification and Control. Alabama Cooperative Extension System Timely Information Series, 11/4/13 (Note: recipient of National Association of County Agricultural Agents 2014 Communication Award)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Enloe, SF and Loewenstein, NJ. 2014. Kudzu control in residential areas. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-2168. 4 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Loewenstein, NJ, Roth, FA II, Wade, LA, Dupree, B and Crockett, RS. 2014. A Key to Common Native Trees in Alabama. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-0509. 16 p.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Tew, JE, Enloe, SF, Loewenstein, NJ and Smith, K. 2014. Nectar and Pollen Producing Plants of Alabama: A Guide for Beekeepers. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-0351. 4 p. (Note: this was a revision to remove recommended non-native invasive plants from the publication.)
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Invasive Plants in Alabama Forests, Alabama Cooperative Extension System; http://www.aces.edu/natural-resources/invasive-species/plants-trees.php
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Progress 07/17/13 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: The primary target audience is forest and other rural landowners, professional forest land managers, loggers and other natural resource professionals. A secondary audience is homeowners, the general public and K-12 educators as non-native invasive plants in forested areas often originate from the landscaping used by the general public and from urban greenspaces. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Attending the regional Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council annual conference. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?
Nothing Reported
What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Alabama is seventy percent forested with 22.7 million acres of forest, ranking fifth in the nation for its incredible biological diversity. However, Alabama also has the some of the highest levels of invasive plants in the southeast. Forest Inventory Analysis data (USDA Forest Service) indicate that as of 2008 over 4.2 million acres (19%) of Alabama forestland was occupied by non-native invasive species. Of the 59 terrestrial plant species currently listed as invasive by the Alabama Invasive Plant Council, twenty-four directly impact managed forests in Alabama and an additional 19 species are on the watch list for potential impacts. Invasive plants pose an increasing threat to forest productivity, forest management options, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and overall ecosystem functioning, ecosystem services and biodiversity. Landowner education, along with interaction with state and local agencies will be a key to reducing the impacts of invasive plants and improving the health of Alabama forests. Our efforts were directed toward educational events, publications and applied research that enhance the knowledge of landowners and professional foresters and other natural resource professionals. Post meeting evaluations indicated that educational programs are very well received and that the majority of attendees intend to use presented management tools and information. Ninety-eight percent of respondents of a survey sent to attendees of annual Alabama Invasive Plant Council (ALIPC) conferences indicated that their knowledge of invasive plant biology and management has increased since attending one or more of these meetings. Notably, fifty percent of these respondents indicated that their knowledge had increased substantially. Post meeting evaluations also indicate that a significant amount of acreage is under ownership or management of attendees. This information is not available for all presentations, but data from 105 attendees at two meetings reflected over 4.1 million acres were under ownership or management of the attendees. The degree of invasive plant infestation on these lands varied widely, as did the percentage of infested area being treated. However, approximately 40% of respondents indicated that they were treating 25% or more of their infested acreage. Respondents indicated that the greatest impediments to invasive plant control are adequate funds, labor and time. Surveys and records also indicate that the Continuing Education Credits offered at these meetings (Pesticide Recertification, Continuing Forestry Education, and Professional Logging Management) are highly valued. Partnering with colleagues in Extension and the Alabama Invasive Plant Council leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stakeholders state-wide. On-line publications and those distributed at educational events and extension offices statewide provided landowners and forest professionals with up-to-date, practical information about invasive plant identification, impacts and control. Objective 1: Develop educational program materials that include identification guides, weed alerts, and management and control strategies. Major activities: Events: Approximately 1000 citizens, landowners and forest professionals participated in 21 educational events including seminars, workshops, field days, and a major conference. Many of these events provided opportunity for Continuing Education Credits. Products: Six Extension publications were co-authored and published. A peer-reviewed article on cogongrass control was accepted for publication and a book chapterwas written for inclusion in Bioenergy and Biological Invasions: Ecological, Agronomic and Policy Perspectives on Minimising Risk. Contributions were made to four websites providing information and photographs regarding invasive plant species.Our Facebook page (Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page) has garnered over 200 ‘likes’, Service: There were approximately 100 phone calls, email responses and personal interactions with client contacts. A section on invasive plants was taught in Dendrology. Activities: Participated in research investigating Chinese tallowtree control, and co-authoredarticles on results from cogongrass control research. Summary statistics: Post meeting evaluations indicated thateducational programsare very well received and that the majority of attendees intend to use presented management tools and information. Ninety-eight percent of respondents of a survey sent to attendees ofALIPC conferences indicated that their knowledge of invasive plant biology and management has increased since attending meetings and nearly 85%report adopting new practices. Post meeting evaluations also show that a significant amount of acreage is managed byattendees and many are actively managing invasives.Continuing Education Credits offered at these meetings are highly valued. Output products: Extension publications received 425 online visits and 25,063 hits and were distributed at all educational events. There were approximately50,000 hits on other webcontent and several hundred image downloads, many of which were used for invasive plant outreach and educational products across the country. Thousands of hardcopies of ‘A Field Guide for the Identification of Invasive Plants in Southern Forests’ were distributed,along with9,860 on-line views and 5026 downloads of the free app version available through the University of Georgia Bugwood network. Key outcomes: Our educational events are very well received, reaching landowners and natural resource professionals that manage millions of acres of Alabama forestland. The majority of attendees indicate that their knowledge of invasive plant biology and management has increased and that they have adopted new invasive plant control strategies. Surveys also indicate that the Continuing Education Credits offered are highly valued. On-line publications and those distributed at educational events and extension offices statewide provided landowners and forest professionals with up-to-date, practical information about invasive plant identification, impacts and control. Objective 2: Create and/or continue participation in state-level partnerships with relevant public and private sector organizations to address issues related to assessment, planning, management and control, research, and education. Major activities: Served as the Executive Director of ALIPC, verifier for Alabama entries toEDDMapS, and on the Executive Board of the National Association of Exotic Pest Plant Councils. Produced a species alert on tropical soda apple andparticipated on a national task force to develop an ASTM standard for producing invasive plant lists. Summary statistics. The mission ofALIPC,a non-profit organization, is to support management of invasive plants by providing a forum for the exchange of scientific, educational and technical information. Partnering with ALIPC leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stake-holders state-wide. Tropical soda apple was nearly eradicated across the state during the recent federally funded eradication program. However, with termination of program funding reports of infestations of tropical soda apple are on the rise. This timely information sheet provided information on the identification, distribution, spread, and control of this invasive species. Use of EDDMapS was encouraged by during a workshop at the annual ALIPC meeting and through posts to the Facebook page. Key Outcomes: Partnering with colleagues in ALIPC leveraged opportunities for education and interaction with state and federal agencies and other stakeholders state-wide. Serving in a leadership roles provided opportunities to contribute to invasive plant issues and activities at a national level.
Publications
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and Loewenstein, N.J. (accepted) Eradication and Control of Bioenergy Feedstocks: What Do We Really Know? Chapter 10 in the forthcoming book: Bioenergy and Biological Invasions: Ecological, Agronomic and Policy Perspectives on Minimizing Risk, to be published in 2014 by CABI
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Price, A.J., Wehje, G. and Miller, J.H. (Dec, 2013)Impacts of prescribed fire, glyphosate, and seeding on cogongrass, species richness and species diversity in longleaf pine. Invasive Plant Science and Management x: xx-xx
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Evans, C.W., Loewenstein, N.J., Bargeron, C.E., Barlow,C.E. and Moorhead, D.J. (Dec, 2012)Field Guide to the Identification of Japanese Stiltgrass: With comparisons to other look-a-like species. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1457. 12 pp.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., and Cain, D. 2013. Cut Stump Herbicide Treatments for Invasive Plant Control. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1465. 2 pp.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F., Loewenstein, N.J., Kelly, W. and Brodbeck, A. 2013. Basal Bark Herbicide Treatment for Invasive Plants in Pastures, Natural Areas, and Forests. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1466. 2 pp.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Enloe, S.F. and. Loewenstein, N.J. 2013. Control Options for Chinese Privet. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1468. 4 pp.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Marable, A.C., Smith, M.D. and Loewenstein, N.J. 2013. Touch-me-nots: Recognizing and Avoiding Poisonous Plants in Alabama. Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ANR-1460. 8 pp.
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