10 Year Strategic Plan for the Comprehensive Control of Tamarisk and Other Non-Native Phreatophytes.

摘要

Riparian lands in Kansas have been seriously impacted by the infestation of non-native phreatophytes. Of greatest concern are the effects tamarisk (salt cedar) and Russian olive are having on our native riparian ecosystems. Tamarisk is a tenacious shrub/small tree that has a deep root system (up to 100 feet) and leaves a salt residue on the soil surface. Russian olive was introduced in Kansas for windbreaks and wildlife planting and has a tendency to spread rapidly. These characteristics enable it to quickly displace native vegetation, interfering with natural plant succession and nutrient cycling, and choking irrigation canals in Kansas. The resulting invasive thickets provide poor habitat for livestock and wildlife; increase fire hazards; decrease water quality, and generally use more water than native vegetation. Infestations in Kansas are roughly estimated to occupy greater than 50,000 acres. Recognizing the need for a long-term coordinated approach in addressing tamarisk and other non-native phreatophyte control, an inter-agency, multi-organizational team was assembled to develop this 10-Year Strategic Plan. In 2004, the Kansas Water Office received approval to initiate the development of this plan by the Governors Natural Resources Subcabinet.