EXOTIC INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN. for the. Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank Site Redevelopment Project

Transcription

1 EXOTIC INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN for the Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank Site Redevelopment Project 1520 Iyannough Road / 131 Attucks Lane Hyannis, Massachusetts June 6, 2017 BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING Registered Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors & Scientists 78 North Street, 3rd Floor Hyannis, MA Tel: Fax:

2 BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING Registered Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Introduction / Summary EXOTIC INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLAN June 6, 2017 As requested by Cape Cod Commission Development of Regional Impact project review staff, Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying (BNE) has prepared the following invasive plant species management plan for the Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank s redevelopment project site located at 1520 Iyannough Road and 131 Attucks Lane in Hyannis, Massachusetts (the Site). Based upon field observations that BNE has performed on the 8.7-acre site, a set of plant species has been identified, which includes exotic (i.e., non-native) invasive plant species that will require monitoring and management when proposed wetland buffer zone restoration areas are established. Management activities focused on the removal and/or effective control of target invasive species will likely be required over a multi-year period while native plant species within restoration areas are establishing. Successful invasive species management will be for the long-term benefit of wetland resource buffer zone restoration areas and for the benefit of existing habitats that currently support native plant assemblages and associated faunal communities. The target species listed below include certain invasive tree, shrub, herbaceous, and woody vines species that currently occur at the Site. Certain species currently occur in greater abundance than others within the existing wetland resource buffer zones and are therefore of a greater concern, as newly established planted areas nearest wetland resource areas will be most susceptible to intrusion by exotic invasive plants. Plants listed in the first group are those that have been observed to occur more frequently in the Site s buffer zone areas and, therefore, in BNE s opinion, have a higher likelihood of negatively impacting buffer zone restoration areas. plant species listed in the second group are those occurring far less frequently at the Site and/or are those species observed nearer Iyannough Road and Attucks Lane and generally outside of buffer zone areas. Group one: Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora) Glossy/European Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) Morrow s Bush honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii) Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) Large Gray Willow (Salix cinerea) Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) Group two: Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) Common Reed (Phragmites australis) Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica formerly Polygonum cuspidatum) BNE has reviewed available literature on these target invasive species and has modeled certain elements of the management plan after control methods recommended by The Nature Conservancy, the Connecticut Plant Working Group, as well as other widely accepted guidelines and agency-recommendations for invasive species management. The management plan discusses alternatives for both mechanical and chemical control methods and the more effective means of managing the species based upon current knowledge. It is Land Surveys Site Design Subdivisions Septic Design Wetland Filings Planning

3 assumed that the control methods ultimately chosen for implementation will occur only following careful review of this document by the issuing authorities. The Significance of the Species Threat As most natural resource professionals and volunteers are now aware, invasive plants are non-native species that have been introduced to areas outside of their native range. In these out-of-range areas, these species often thrive and out-compete and overtake members of endemic plant communities. Non-native plants are characteristically aggressive, have few natural enemies and/or limiting biological factors within their introduced range, and tend to have very effective reproductive abilities. The spread of such plants is a major concern, as these plants reduce the functions and values of habitats for native flora and fauna within wetlands, uplands, and transition zones and are a nuisance to manage once they have become established within an area. Adverse economic and environmental impacts are also a consequence of invasive species establishment. In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Plant Advisory Group (MIPAG), a voluntary collaborative representing organizations and professionals concerned with the conservation of the Massachusetts landscape, has been charged by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to provide recommendations to the Commonwealth regarding which plants are invasive and what steps should be taken to manage these species. Non-native invasive plants often displace native species over a relatively short period of time, often resulting in monotypic plant communities that lack species diversity. Species diversity is essential to maintaining an ecological balance. As is true with most exotic or non-native species, those found at the Site are increasingly common throughout eastern North America, where their spread has led to a decline in species richness and cover provided by local native plant communities. In general, many of the introduced plants were widely cultivated in the past for their ornamental and perceived high wildlife values. Only in more recent years have conservationists and land managers come to realize the importance of preserving native plant communities. Most exotic species are adapted to a wide variety of habitats and climactic conditions and are free of known diseases and/or insects or other predators native to the U.S. plants quickly establish within a landscape, grow, and spread rapidly. Non-native species aggressively out-compete native plants and can dominate a plant community within a short period of time. Generally, many of the introduced plants were widely cultivated in the past for their ornamental and perceived high wildlife values. Only in more recent years have conservationists and land managers come to realize the importance of preserving native plant communities. MIPAG was instrumental in developing the Commonwealth s first list of invasive, likely invasive, and potentially invasive plants that have now been prohibited from importation, sale, or trade. As a result, future invasions by non-native species will be more likely due to the spread of naturalized populations, rather than new (accidental) introductions. MIPAG has also developed a list of early detection species for the Commonwealth. MIPAG has also published its strategic recommendations to prevent, control, and where possible, eradicate invasive plant species in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. These recommendations complement efforts at both the regional and national levels to establish an early detection and rapid response system for invasive plants. Their recommendations are published in the Strategic Recommendations for Managing Plants in Massachusetts. More recently, MIPAG has BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Page 2

4 published both the Massachusetts Plant Species: Early Detection Priorities, (March 16, 2011) and the Guidance for the Effective Management of Plants, Version 2 (December 2012). 2.0 Proposed Species Management Options and Recommendations BNE has reviewed numerous resources from state and regional agencies and private organizations with land management expertise offering plant species-specific information and recommended invasive species removal and control techniques. These groups include MIPAG, the Westfield River Watershed Species Partnership, the Connecticut Plant Species Working Group, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Recreation, and other local land management experts and consultants. BNE has presented this information in a summary format provided by Table 1 providing information specific to the target invasive species. Because all pesticides, including herbicides, are toxic to some degree, and that even at low levels, may cause serious adverse health and environmental effects, BNE strongly recommends that qualified, pesticide applicator-licensed contractors follow these or similar protocols during the project s implementation phase. Implementation should only begin once the applicant has obtained all written approvals and all local and state review agencies have been notified as required under specific permits. Management Techniques Overview Selected management techniques are generally based upon the extent of a given invasive plant species within the plant community and employ a strategy that best controls the species, while minimizing the potential for adverse impacts to other desirable (i.e., native) species. species are often difficult to completely eliminate from an area, and a practical management goal is to control, not necessarily eradicate, invasive species while simultaneously encouraging, or even introducing, a native plant community. Methods for the management of invasive species fall into three basic categories: Mechanical (cutting, pulling, grubbing, covering, etc.); Chemical (use of herbicides); and, Biological (using living organisms such as insects or domestic grazing animals). In general, mechanical controls, such as cutting or pulling, have the least adverse impacts on the adjacent, native communities; however, mechanical methods are often not as effective in the control of certain plant species. When warranted and appropriate, chemical controls (through the application of herbicides) are most effective by modest applications of specific herbicides applied to the surface freshly cut stems, which is the surface of expose plants vascular tissue. Selective application of herbicides also functions to reduce adverse impacts on desirable native species from herbicide application. For this same reason, broad foliar spraying of herbicides is generally not recommended because of the potential for negative impacts to non-target plant and animal species, although foliar spraying may be effective in controlling larger, monotypic stands of invasive plants. Biological control, or use of living organisms as a control agent, has also been proven effective on certain species. Upon effective removal or control of invasive species, native plant species are then planted in order to restore a native plant community. Table 1 provides recommended general time-of-year treatment protocols for each species. With many species, both mechanical and chemical treatments may be necessary multiple times per year over a three to five-year period in order to reach desired results. As will any invasive species management program, BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Page 3

5 treatment means should be reviewed annually, at minimum, in order to assess the effectiveness of plantspecific treatments and treatment protocol flexibility should be allowed and encouraged in the interest of project success. Site monitoring is discussed in Section 3.0 of this narrative. 3.0 Site Monitoring During and Post-implementation A qualified environmental consultant will need to perform on-site observations during the implementation phase of the work and following completion of the initial land management work for a period of at least five years. The primary purpose of these observations is to document and assess the effectiveness of the invasive species removal and/or other management measures. The assessment will help determine what additional measures will be required by the land management contractor(s) to attain effective control of the target invasive species. The consultant would recommend a set of additional measures to both the property owner and the land management contractor following its observations. An intent of the assessment will also be to observe and document the response of the remaining native plant assemblage to the invasive species removal efforts. Post-implementation observations will occur at a minimum during the early and late portions of each growing season for a five-year (minimum) monitoring period. Observations will likely be performed beyond the five-year monitoring period and possibly after a Certificate of Compliance is attained from the Conservation Commission. The consultant would provide the Barnstable Conservation Commission with written reporting on an annual basis, or more frequently, if required under the Order of Conditions and/or other permit. Notes on Herbicide Use Various groups, including the Nature Conservancy, MIPAG, and the National Park Service (NPS) strongly recommend non-chemical methods of control wherever feasible. However, for large infestations, non-chemical methods are inadequate. Any herbicide use permitted at the Site would be applied only by a Massachusetts- Licensed Pesticide Applicator and in accordance with all State regulations pertaining to herbicide application. The two main herbicide treatments considered in developing this management plan include glyphosate and triclopyr). Glyphosate (e.g., Round-up or Rodeo ) is a non-selective, systemic herbicide that kills both grasses and broad-leaved plants. Triclopyr (e.g., Brush-B-Gone TM, Garlon TM, Pathfinder TM ) is a selective herbicide that kills broad-leaved plants but does little or no harm to grass species. Applied carefully to avoid non-target plants, glyphosate is the least environmentally damaging herbicide in most instances. Round-up contains a petroleumbased sticker-spreader that allows the herbicide to cling to the target species to ensure its absorption into the plant s tissues. Rodeo, the glyphosate formulation for use in wetlands, does not contain any sticker-spreader, and thus is considered to be safer for the wetland environment. Where appropriate and considered necessary for the successful management of the invasive species at this site, specifications for the type of herbicides will be provided. As with the timing for mechanical methods for management of invasive species, non-specific use of herbicides or use of a specific herbicide at incorrect times or in incorrect concentrations can actually lead to spreading of invasive species. Other considerations for herbicide use include avoiding inclement weather conditions such as wind, which could result in herbicide application to non-target, possibly native species, or rainy conditions, which could dilute or wash away applied herbicides, rendering them ineffective. BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Page 4

6 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying SPECIES MIPAG Status DESCRIPTION / OCCURRENCE HABITAT and ECOLOGICAL THREATS MANAGEMENT ACTIONS / OPTIONS Multiflora or Rambler Rose (Rosa multiflora) (FACU) A thorny, deciduous shrub from Asia in the Rose Family (Rosaceae) with arching and scrambling stems that can grow to 3.0 to 4.5 m. The stems are red to green with scattered, broad-based prickles. Leaves pinnately compound, each comprised of 5 to 11 elliptic leaflets with sharply serrated margins. Large pyramidal clusters of fragrant, mostly white but sometimes pink, fivepetaled flowers appearing May to June. Small, red, ovoid to elliptic rose hips containing achenes are borne in late summer. Considered a noxious weed in many states. SITE OCCURRENCE: Observed frequently sitewide, but primarily occurring in buffer zone to wetland habitat bordering pond. Also observed along most woodland margins, along road margins, and along edges of landscaped areas of site. Likely to intrude into buffer zone restoration areas. Occurring in upland, wetland, and coastal habitats. It commonly occurs along roadsides, streambanks, and in pastures and grows best in open, fertile, moist upland habitats. Grows in full sun to full shade and has broad tolerance to various soil and moisture conditions. A single plant may produce a million seeds per year (estimated), which may remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. Seeds readily spread by birds. Forms impenetrable thickets that can overwhelm other vegetation and displaces / outcompetes native species. Dominates fallow or abandoned pasture land. Grows very prolifically in riparian areas, where its inedible leaf litter can change the composition of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community. Mechanical and chemical methods can effectively control this species. Mature plants may be managed by repeated cutting and mowing (three to six times a year for several years) as a means of suppressing the plant s ability to photosynthesize. Cutting is best when populations are small and when the use of herbicides is not an option due to habitat sensitivity. Stems must be removed at least once per growing season as close to the ground level as possible. Young multiflora rose plants may be removed by hand. The entire root system must been removed for pulling to be an effective part of control plan. Treatment by repeated application of herbicides has proven to be an effective control method. Glyphosate should be selectively applied to kill the root and the stem if repeated cutting is not an option. It is most effective when applied during the early summer, and can be used through the early fall. Triclopyr may be applied in the early spring before or during flowering. Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) A deciduous shrub with Korean, Chinese, and Japanese origin that grows to twelve feet or more in height. Branches often bearing thorns. The leaves are dark green above with smooth margins. Leaf undersides, as well as stems and buds, are densely covered in silvery-white to rustycolored scales. Flowering occurs between April and May. Small, round, juicy fruits are red to pink and dotted with silvery surface scales. SITE OCCURRENCE: Observed frequently sitewide, but primarily occurring in upland areas along woodland margins, along edges of landscaped areas, and roadway/parking lot margins. Likely to intrude into buffer zone restoration areas and all newly landscaped areas. Drought-tolerant growing in full sun. Doesn t do well in wet areas or dense forest habitats. Thrives in a variety of soil and moisture conditions and invades open woodlands, fields, grasslands, and disturbed habitats. Its ability to fix N provides a competitive advantage over native plants in habitats with nutrient-poor soils. Shade created by this shrub inhibits growth of other species. When cut, this plant resprouts vigorously and abundantly. A prolific fruit producer, single shrubs have been observed to bear up to eighty pounds of fruit per growing season. The berries are dispersed by birds and other animals. An invasive species in our region that is rapidly increasing in abundance along open road shoulders and in fields. Because this plant re-sprouts vigorously when cut, mechanical control combined with chemical control treatment methods are recommended. It can be effectively controlled by manual removal of young seedlings in spring when the plants are large enough to grasp, but before seed production. Entire root must be removed, or re-sprouting will occur. The cut-stump herbicide application is most effective for this species. Herbicides including Dicamba, glyphosate, or 2,4-D can be applied as foliar spray in spring and summer to smaller established plants. On larger plants, glyphosate, triclopyr, and/or 2,4-D are effective on resprouts and for basal bark treatments. If cutting of more mature plants is necessary, immediate herbicide application to cut surface is recommended. Treatment of this type can occur any time of year. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

7 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying Bush honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii / Lonicera x bella) A shrub native to East Asia, Europe, and Japan occurring in upland, wetland, and coastal habitats. Often occurring in disturbed woods or edges. Grows in full sun to full shade, but mostly shade-intolerant. Part of a confusing hybrid complex of nonnative honeysuckles commonly planted and escaping from cultivation via bird dispersal. Once a population establishes, vegetative sprouting continues the spread. SITE OCCURRENCE: Observed frequently sitewide occurring in wetland buffer zone and all upland areas. Frequent along woodland margins, along edges of landscaped areas, and roadway/parking lot margins. Likely to intrude into buffer zone restoration areas. Competes with native plants for sun light, moisture, and pollinators. While birds eat the fruit, it is poorer in fats and nutrients than fruits from native plants, so the birds do not get enough nutrients to help sustain long flights during migrations. Morrow s and Bell s honeysuckles are capable of invading bogs, fens, lakeshores, and sandplains. Mechanical and chemical combination of measures: Remove majority of plant above ground and mechanically uproot, if conditions allow, with Uprooter (or similar) weed wrench. Or cut-and-wipe herbicide treatment of cut stumps with Glyphosate-based herbicide to kill root system. Herbicide treatment of cut stumps can occur any time of year, but best results achieved following emergence of fruit in summer when plant has transferred stored energy. Regular hand-pulling of juvenile plants in spring upon emergence and spot herbicide treatments recommended for persistent re-sprouts and seedlings when soil is moist. Multi-year monitoring of impacted area is necessary. Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) (also Polygonum cuspitatum, Reynoutria japonica) (FACU) An upright, herbaceous, shrub-like perennial in the Smartweed Family (Polygonaceae) native to eastern Asia. Stems erect, stout, with hollow internodes. Joints swollen. The alternate leaves are broad and oval, triangular, or heart-shaped with a pointed tip and may become six inches long and three to four inches wide. It has greenish white flowers and can spread by seed as well as growth by rhizome, runners, and stems (vegetative growth). Damaged stem segments are able to re-grow if the buds at the nodes are viable. Flowers in August and September, with seeds emerging two weeks following flowering. SITE OCCURRENCE: This plant was not frequently observed site-wide, but does occur along paved surface margins on site and adjacent sites. It is anticipated that seedling occurrence will occur and be a problem within buffer restoration area. Rhizome fragments will very likely occur in soil material brought to site and will result in plant establishment. May be found in fields, roadsides, waste areas, forest edges, and river shores and banks. Dense thickets threaten native plant communities in wetlands and riparian areas. Has ability to survive severe flooding and readily colonizes island habitats and shorelines. Once a population of knotweed becomes established, it spreads primarily by growth along its large rhizomes, which can grow to a length of 20 meters, but also spreads by seed. Requires high amounts of sunlight and normally does not establish within forest understories. Highly persistent and difficult to eradicate. Manual and mechanical management techniques are most appropriate for smaller stands of knotweed and young plants. These techniques are also more feasible in environmentally sensitive areas where limitations on herbicide application exist. Pulling and digging (by hand or by machine) with extreme care to remove entire plant, roots, rhizomes, runners included. Repeated cutting and covering over multiple growing seasons also effective. Chemical control methods most effective. Laborious cutstem and stem-injection applications can be effective. Foliar spray options best for large populations. Glyphosate and triclopyr solutions commonly used in foliar spray applications. Glyphosate applied in spring or early summer may stunt or yellow growth, but knotweed will generally recover and continue growing. Glyphosate treatments in late summer or early fall are much more effective in preventing regrowth of Japanese knotweed the following year. Triclopyr will kill the top growth within a few days, but knotweed may re-sprout following treatment. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

8 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying Glossy False Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) (FACW) A deciduous, upright shrub in the Buckthorn Family (Rhamnaceae) with Eurasian and North African origin. Height may reach six meters. The shrub s gray-brown bark is smooth with visibly speckled lenticels. Leaves are alternately arranged and vary in shape from obovate to oblong to elliptical. They are dark green (yellow in fall) and shiny with nearly parallel veins and entire margins. Yellowish-green flowers appear May to September in umbels each containing one to eight flowers. Small round juicy fruits with two to three stones change from red to black as they ripen from July to October. SITE OCCURRENCE: Observed in the wetland adjacent to pond and its buffer zone. Highly likely to intrude into buffer zone restoration areas. Grows in full sun to full shade and is highly moisture tolerant, growing in a range of soil types. Habitats include fens, swamps, along bog edges, and in upland habitats such as woodlands, thickets, and old fields. Inhabits typically wetter, less shaded areas with acidic soils. A huge threat to native wetland plant communities where it can form dense shrub layers causing suppressed growth of other wetland plant assemblages. Interferes with natural processes of succession and regeneration of native species. Fruit production is abundant and seeds are dispersed by birds and small mammals. Resprouts vigorously following top removal. Shrubs cut near the base can send up sprouts nearly 6 feet high in same year. Cutting back larger plants twice in a single growing season for two to three consecutive years results in fewer and shorter stems and reduced plant vigor. This is best done twice a season (in June and in August). Plants with stem bases less than two inches in diameter can be successfully girdled (a one inch-wide cut) during the winter months. Girdling does not disrupt soils and would not disrupt sensitive wetlands. Individual seedlings can be hand pulled or removed with a grubbing tool; however, this technique is only effective in areas of low buckthorn density. Using glyphosate without a surfactant has been reported to have the greatest control with little or no harm to nontarget vegetation. Herbicide application of glyphosate has been effective on cut stumps or along girdled stems. Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) Relatively low-growing, dense, deciduous spiny shrub of Asian origin Forms dense stands. Stems and branches are brown to red and deeply grooved with single, usually unbranched spines at each node. Leaf color ranges from blue-green to green to dark reddish purple. Plants bloom in mid-april to May, producing eight mm-long yellow flowers that hang in clusters of one to four from the leaf axils along the length of stem. Bright red, elliptical berries July and October. The native American barberry (B. canadensis) has range not extending to New England states. SITE OCCURRENCE: Few individuals were observed only along the Attucks Lane road margins, but potentially occurring in other areas of previous soil disturbance. Observed plants may be European barberry (B. vulgaris), which is considered likely invasive. Prefers full sun to partial shade, but succeeds in reproducing in heavily shaded habitats. Occurring in open woodlands and wetlands and grows in full-sun to fullshade. Shade tolerant, drought resistant, and adaptable to a variety of wooded habitats, wetlands, and disturbed areas. Seeds readily spread by birds and small mammals. High seed germination rate. Can form dense stands and outcompetes native shrub-layer vegetation and impacts ecological value of a landscape by reducing plant species diversity. Reduces wildlife habitat value. Has been found to alter the ph and biological activity of soil. Barberry is also considered a human health hazard because it acts as a nursery for deer ticks. Mechanical removal: small plants to be removed by hand, larger plants to be pulled or dug up with care to remove root system. If initial mechanical removal proves difficult, then a focused herbicide application by cutstump method will be implemented. Glyphosate (nonselective) and Triclopyr (selective) are effective. Application of herbicide to cut stumps most effective during growing season when applied in very late summer and fall during the period following emergence of fruit. Barberry can resprout from root fragments remaining in soil, so it is necessary to use chemical controls at times to ensure eradication of all root fragments. There are no biological control organisms for this plant at this time. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

9 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying Black Locust / False Acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia) A fast growing deciduous tree in the Pea Family (Fabaceae) native to the southeastern United States north to central Pennsylvania. Can grow 0.6 m per year and reach heights to 30 m. Branches and twigs usually have sharp, paired spines at leaf bases. Compound leaves each bearing 7 to 19 blue-green paired and rounded leaflets. Fragrant, white pea-like flowers with yellow centers appear in May to June period in dense racemes. Fruits from September to October producing flat, brown pods with 4 to 8 reddish brown seeds. Reproduces vigorously by root suckering and stump sprouting to form groves (or clones) of trees interconnected by a common fibrous root system. SITE OCCURRENCE: Frequently occurring along Iyannough Road margin and margins of paved parking lots. Some along Attucks Lane near site. Grows in full sun to partial shade, but is intolerant of dense shade and poorly drained soils. It prefers sandy soil and can tolerate high soil acidity (i.e., low ph). In the eastern US, it occurs in immature forests, woodlands, roadsides, grasslands, and agricultural landscapes. Commonly found in disturbed upland areas. Poses a serious threat to native vegetation in dry, upland forest edge habitats. Once introduced to an area, it expands readily into areas where their shade reduces competition from other plants. Reduces or eliminates understory plant diversity, as dense clones of locust create dense islands with little ground vegetation. A great nectar producer, it can outcompete native plant species for pollinators. The most effective strategy for management involves a combination of chemical application and mechanical removal, where the trees are killed and then removed. Using a hack and squirt technique, triclopyr (e.g., Garlon- 4) is applied directly to deep cuts in the bark ( frill cuts ) in period July to September (application also ok in dormant period). For basal bark and cut stem/stump applications, a fourteen- percent solution of triclopyr or twentypercent solution of glyphosate is used. Once the trees are dead, they can be felled. Triclopyr (one-percent solution) can be applied as foliar treatment. Foliar spray in period July to mid-october. Glyphosate (e.g., Round-up) can be applied to freshly cut stumps. If tree removal must occur initially, glyphosate must be applied immediately to the freshly cut stump surface. Treatment areas in the landscape should be monitored seasonally for the emergence of locust seedlings. Common Reed (Phragmites australis) (FACW) A large perennial in the Grass Family (Poaceae) from Europe and Asia typically 2-4 m tall that grows from long, thick compressed creeping rhizomes. Large, feathery, purplish inflorescences are 40 cm long and appear from July to September. These turn straw-colored in the fall. Similar species: The rare and non-aggressive North American native sub-species/genotype americanus, which can be found in healthy, undisturbed wetland communities, can be distinguished by a number of features including rhizome thickness, internode appearance, and inflorescence characteristics (refer to botanical references). SITE OCCURRENCE: Observed to occur in a few locations along pond margin. Grows in full sun to full shade in upland and open wetland habitats (particularly where there has been disturbance) including fresh to brackish marshes, shores, ditches and fens. P. australis behaves aggressively. Forms large, dense, overwhelming monocultures that displace salt and brackish marsh native plant communities. Phragmites is a problem when and where stands appear to be spreading while other species typical of the community are diminishing. Rhizome fragment may often be transported to sites in soils used in wetland and buffer zone restoration areas, which results in emergence. Management approaches include mechanical/physical control, chemical control, biological control, and hydrological control. A combination of management measures often successful. Chosen method(s) is typically determined by extent of reed populations and sensitivity of adjacent habitats/plant communities. For expansive communities, high-speed rotary-blade mowers can be used to remove and fragment stalks prior to wetland useapproved herbicide applications by mechanical wiper or manual-application means. The Bundle-and-cut method of herbicide application is an efficient means of delivering herbicide solution: Following tassling (i.e., inflorescence emergence) in summer, stems are bundled together into a mass, cut at a single height, and herbicide is applied to the cut surface. This method reduces potential for spillage and overapplication. A three-per-year herbicide treatment protocol over a three to five-year period is effective. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

10 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying Large Gray Willow (Salix cinerea) With a Eurasian origin, this large shrub or small tree species was mainly introduced as a species used for bank stabilization. The tree can reach ten meters in height. The tree is generally branched from the base, but can form a single trunk. It exhibits a broad rounded, to flattened crown. According to the USDA Forest Service, Salix cinerea and its close relative S. atrocinerea were first detected in 2005 crowding out native species along the pond shores and dune swales of southern New England (Obscurity to Notoriety: Large Gray Willow, USDA, December, 2006). Most frequent along the coastal plain, it readily invades riparian habitats, brackish wetlands, wet forests, and has increasingly occurred along freshwater pond margins of the Cape. Salix cinerea can grow in a wide range of soils and it can tolerate permanent water logging and a ph as low as 3.5. Considered a very serious threat, it outcompetes and displaces native woody species assemblages by forming monocultures. It can spread profusely via seed and stem fragments. Because it is considered pioneering in disturbed areas, it could adversely impact constructed wetland buffer restoration areas. A most effective means of control involves a combination of mechanical and chemical treatment. A cut-and-wipe application with a twenty-percent concentration of glyphosate-based herbicide is recommended. Herbicide application necessary immediately after exposing cut trunk surface. This management technique can be performed any time of the year. The leaves are shiny, dull gray-green on the upper surface, with soft gray hairs on the undersurface. Leaf shape is very variable, but is usually obovate to broadly oblanceolate. The flowers are cylindrical catkins that appear before the leaves in spring. The female catkins longer and narrower than the male catkins. Salix cinerea and S. atrocinerea are very closely related and are sometimes treated as two subspecies of a single species according to the online resource Salicicola. Salix cinerea is native in most of Europe and West Siberia, while Salix atrocinerea has Mediterranean South-European Atlantic distribution type. A key diagnostic feature of invasive gray willows are the fine, whitish, longitudinal ridges found underneath the bark of younger branches and twigs. This characteristic is one feature that differentiates the invasive gray willow from the North American native pussy willow (Salix discolor). Multi-year monitoring of treatment site is necessary to reduce reemergence of this willow. Space opened up in landscape by willow removal should be planted with native woody species, which will help suppress reemergence of undesirable species. SITE OCCURRENCE: Several mature gray willows observed along the pond margin and also a few occurring along the margin of the storm, stormwater management wetland. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

11 Table 1 Baxter Nye Engineering & Surveying Asiatic or Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) and Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) (UPL) Both are native to East Asia. Deciduous woody perennials that grow vigorously as climbing vines. Occurring mainly in uplands. Grows in full sun to partial shade. Has a high reproductive rate, long-range dispersal, ability to root sucker, and rapid growth rates. Berries spread by birds and humans. Bittersweet can sometimes be a low trailing shrub spreading by orange-colored roots. Stems are brown with warty lenticels when young, but gray-barked on older stems, which can reach diameter of six inches. Leaves are alternately arranged, short-petioled, roundish to obovate, with bluntly serrated margins and abruptly pointed tips. Axillary clusters of two to three greenish flowers bloom from May through June. Globular, yelloworange capsules with three red fleshy arils inside are produced from July to October. SITE OCCURRENCE: Both vines frequently occurring within the wetland buffer zone adjacent to the pond. Bittersweet occurring sitewide along margins of nearly woody thickets and margins of paved areas. Occurring mainly in uplands, it invades forest edges, woodlands, hedgerows, early successional fields, coastal areas and salt marsh rims. Grows in full sun to partial shade. Thrives in disturbed areas. Has a high reproductive rate, long-range dispersal, ability to spread by root suckering, and rapid growth rates. Berries spread by birds and humans. Climbs over, smothers, shades, and girdles native vegetation, which may die from excessive shading and/or breakage (from weight of vines). This invasive threatens our rare, native American bittersweet (C. scandens) through competition/displacement and hybridization. Reduces native plant biodiversity and wildlife habitat value. Vine honeysuckle is opportunistic and will colonize managed areas if it is left untreated. Mechanical and manual control by cutting and pulling is most practical in small plots, or in areas where chemical control is not an option. Ultimately, these methods are a means of restricting growth until the roots and seeds are no longer viable. Control should consist of a late fall application of glyphosate-based herbicide. Chemical control methods are preferred and are more effective than manual techniques. While both glyphosate and triclopyr have been used to control the species, most of the literature cites more effective control with triclopyr. Triclopyr specifically targets broadleaf plants, reducing the chances of impacting nearby monocots. Triclopyr may be applied using several techniques, including cut-stump, basal bark, and foliar spraying. Treatment can be by hand-cutting stems in late summer/early fall and immediately wiping the cut stem with an ultra-low volume treatment of triclopyr-based herbicide. Foliar spraying may be very effective in areas where it is permitted. Low, monocultures of bittersweet may be sprayed directly. Triclopyr has been effective at concentrations as low as two to five percent active ingredient. A one half-percent concentration of a stateapproved non-ionic surfactant is recommended in addition to the triclopyr so that the herbicide penetrates the leaf cuticle. While foliar spraying may be performed at any point during growing season, it is preferable to spray in late fall while other non-target species are dormant. In addition, temperatures should be well above 40 degrees F, and rain should not be forecast within 24 hours of treatment. Both sides of the leaf should be sprayed liberally, but not to the point of dripping. A second application is often required after two weeks. Exotic Plant Species Management Plan Summary Table

12 REFERENCES: Ahrens, J.F Herbicides for control of oriental bittersweet. Proceedings, Northeastern Weed Sci. Soc. 41: Batcher, M.S. and S.A. Stiles Element Stewardship Abstract for Lonicera maackii (Rupr.) Maxim (Amur honeysuckle), Lonicera Morrowii A. Gray (Morrow s honeysuckle), Lonicera tatarica L. (Tatarian honeysuckle), Lonicera x bella Zabel (Bell s honeysuckle), the Bush honeysuckles. The Nature Conservancy, M. Tu and J. M. Randall, Eds. University of California, Davis, CA. Converse, C.K Element Stewardship Abstract for Rhamnus cathartica, Rhamnus frangula (syn. Frangula alnus), Buckthorns. The Nature Conservancy, M. Tu and J. M. Randall, Eds. University of California, Davis, CA. Dreyer, G. D Efficacy of Triclopyr in Root-killing Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus Thunb.) Proceedings, Northeastern Weed Sci. Soc. 42: Dreyer, G. D Element Stewardship Abstract for Celastrus orbiculata, Asiatic Bittersweet. The Nature Conservancy, J. M. Randall, Ed. University of California, Davis, CA. Eckardt, N Element Stewardship Abstract for Rosa multiflora, Rambler Rose, Multiflowered Rose. The Nature Conservancy, J. M. Randall, Ed. University of California, Davis, CA. Haines, A Flora Novae Angliae. The New England Wildflower Society, Yale University Press. New Haven, Connecticut. Johnson, Jon, et al. Managing Multiflora Rose. Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Technical Assistance Series. Pennsylvania State University & United States Department of Agriculture < Marks, M., B. Lapin and J. Randall Element Stewardship Abstract for Phragmites australis, Common Reed. The Nature Conservancy, University of California, Davis, CA. Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, Department of Agricultural Resources, Fact Sheet on Glyphosate, November 26, 2003 Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, Department of Agricultural Resources, Fact Sheet on Triclopyr, June 23, Massachusetts Plant Advisory Group, Final Report: The Evaluation of Non-Native Plant Species for ness in Massachusetts, February 28, Massachusetts Plant Advisory Group, Strategic Recommendations for Managing Plants in Massachusetts February 28, Massachusetts Plant Advisory Group, Massachusetts Plant Species: Early Detection Priorities, March 16, Massachusetts Plant Advisory Group, Guidance for the Effective Management of Plants, Version 2, December Mehrhoff, L. J., J. A. Silander, Jr., S. A. Leicht, E. S. Mosher and N. M. Tabak IPANE: Plant Atlas of New England. Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA ( BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Page 5

13 Pannill, Philip D Tree of Heaven Control. Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service. Hagerstown, MD. Sanford, G. R The Ecology of Common Woody Plants of Cape Cod. Shonbrun, S. B., Ed s: Conservation Notes of the New England Wild Flower Society. New England Wild Flower, Vol. 2:3. State of Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (various outside contributors). Best Management Practices for the Prevention and Treatment of Terrestrial Plants in Vermont Woodlands Field Guide for Land Managers, Forestry Professionals and Landowners Tu, M., Hurd, C. and J.M. Randall Weed Control Methods Handbook, The Nature Conservancy, version April University of Rhode Island College for the Environment and Life Sciences. Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) Control Fact Sheet. Rhode Island. USDA Growing Seasons, as cited in Massachusetts Inland Wetland Replication Guidelines. March 2002, Appendix B, Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, Department of Environmental Protection, Guidance No. BRP/DWM/WetG02-2, 35 pp. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora). Madison, Wisconsin, Various Website Sources The Global Species Initiative. The Nature Conservancy ( New England Wildflower Society ( The Source for Information and Images of & Exotic Species. A joint project of The University of Georgia s Bugwood Network, USDA Forest Service and USDA APHIS PPQ ( BAXTER NYE ENGINEERING & SURVEYING 78 North Street, 3 rd Floor, Hyannis, MA Tel: (508) Fax: (508) Page 6