Curt Deuser
Restoration Biologist
National Park Service
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
601 Nevada Highway
Boulder City, NV. 89005
email: curt_deuser@nps.gov

Abstract

EFFECTIVE TAMARISK CONTROL AND SITE RECOVERY

There are a variety of effective tamarisk control methods including mechanical, chemical, fire and biological. Applying Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles is important when developing exotic plant management strategies. Utilizing a combination of methods achieves optimum results that can be applied to various restoration situations. Although initial control treatments require substantial commitment, labor and funding, only minimal effort is needed to maintain an area free of tamarisk. Site recovery occurs by "releasing" adjacent vegetation from direct competition created by the resource consuming tamarisk trees. Native plant recruitment and establishment is facilitated by an increase in soil moisture following tamarisk removal. The recovery process often occurs within the first growing season following tamarisk control; however, recovery time and results may vary depending on numerous environmental factors.