Spotted knapweed
has been showing up
in Alaska, likely in
imported hay.
Photo: Caleb Slemmons
(Homer SWCD)
DISCUSS:
Is
biological invasion
a process that would
occur without humans?
Why? How have we
affected the rate?
Where do invasive plants
come from?
What are the economic
costs? Ecological costs?
What would you do to
solve the problem?
If you haven't already done the Mapping Exercise visit the instruction page to get started.
Additional Exercises:
1. Taking it to the streets: mapping local invasive weeds
Get a regional map to post in the classroom and get or make your own photo flip book or ID books of non-native plants (contact your local
Cooperative Extension or Soil and Water Conservation District office).
Using local maps, conduct a survey of the area around your home or school.
Have everyone mark their maps with colored dots that correspond to a
particular non-native plant. For example, green dots can represent common
dandelion (Taraxacum officinale ssp. officinale) and have everyone
post their records on the regional map in the classroom with push pins.
Where were most of the non-natives found? Were there any invasives found?
What was the most common species? The least common? (In Southcentral
Alaska, this exercise is easiest in June or early in the Fall when plants
are still flowering)
2. Get the word out: make an invasive plant poster
Collect
information about an invasive weed and create a poster with a detailed
photo or drawing and essential info to help people understand the problems
it can cause. Many problematic plants are introduced by unwary gardeners
and homeowners. Your poster should clearly explain why it is a problem and
maybe provide a similar alternative. Some invasive ornamentals planted in
Alaska include: ornamental jewelweed, purple loosestrife, orange hawkweed
and common or garden tansy. Hang your posters in a public place and help
“spread the word, not the weed!”
3. Science fair or “Caring for the Kenai” Project Ideas
- Undertake a control project on a local infestation of an invasive plant (get permission first) and monitor the effectiveness of different treatments.
- Test for invasive plants in “wildflower”, bird seed mixes or samples of imported hay by planting them indoors and identifying the plants at maturity.
-
Conduct a poll to determine
how many people know about invasive plants. How many do they know? Do they
know where they came from? What about greenhouse owners and landscapers?
4. Get the word out: show what you know
Come up with a creative way to teach a middle school class what you have learned about invasive plants. Make a handout or a booklet that will help them identify what plants are invasive, non-native and native.
LINKS
INTRO: Invasive Plants
Taking Root in AK
Exercises, Discussion Topics and More
Districts and US Forest Service - State and Private Forestry
