Case Studies - Cordgrass (Spartina) Control Demo

SPARTINA CONTROL DEMO

Follow up to 07/07/08 H_M_O ℠ Spartina Treatment

SPARTINA Control Tactics

The California State Coastal Conservancy has a broad mandate to protect the coastal resources of California. The Conservancy developed a regionally coordinated project to address the rapid spread of four introduced and highly invasive Spartina (cordgrass)

Cordgrasses are highly aggressive invaders that significantly alter both the physical structure and biological composition of bay tidal marshes, mudflats and creeks. The Invasive Spartina Project is a coordinated regional effort among local, state and federal organizations in the elimination of introduced species of Spartina (cordgrass). The ISP allocates funds for efforts to eliminate populations of nonindigenous Spartina.

To date the ISP has tried and or evaluated Hand-pulling and Manual Excavation, Covering/ Blanketing, Pruning, Mowing, & Burning, Mechanical Excavation & Dredging; along with Chemicals.

All appropriate means are being considered in the control of cordgrass.

One tool has yet to be tried....

Sandra Guldman coordinated the demonstration on July 7, 2008 of a new method to control cordgrass. The following photos document results of this water powered disintegration method, H_M_O ℠ short for Hydro_Mechanical_Obliteration.

Bon Aire bridge Two methods used 1.)Excavate Root 2.) Mow

Hydro Mechanical Excavation Removal of root leaves hole next photo is close up

PROCESS: Much easier than using hand tools.

Precision removal for eradication or transplanting is a common application. The divot eases monitoring

Water line mow area

Next to the water line was mowed to the root mass.H_M_O ℠ disintegrates controllably.

These were mowed down to the nub

Soil has maintained position.

NUB

the next photo is a zoom in. It looks pretty dead.

Close Up (dormant).

JUST a prickly looking NUB

Invader Invaded

NOTE: the bermuda grass is making way out to nub.

Conclusion

Results of July 7th single H_M_O ℠ treatment. Over four months: No Sign of Re-growth.

A New CONTROL TECHNIQUE

The H_M_O Rx Prescription

This tool holds huge promise in addressing the invasive Cordgrass problem.

• H_M_O ℠ Mowing treatment is very fast.
• Disintegration is very precise and controllable
• The method eliminates haul away of bio-mass.
• Reduces trips in and out of the treatment area.
• All season use allows control in rainy weather.
• Can be used to control many other invasive plants and pests.