Invasive Species

Fire can be used to control some invasive species, but not all.  Fire is good for managing an ecosystem and helping to create the environment we are looking for, but sometimes this needs to be coupled with herbicides or pulling root systems.  

For instance, in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, we have an issue with scotch broom.  Scotch broom is a dark green bush with bright yellow flowers.

Although pretty to look at, it is considered an invasive species and will compete for water with other vegetation and destroy animal habitat.Once it has established itself in soil, the only way to get rid of it is to dig up its root system.  Burning it only encourages growth.  

 

However, controlled burning is not an entirely bad idea since it will burn them.  The seeds will reestablish, just as well as the other native seeds.  This is where range management comes in.    

Once scotch broom is recognized in its early stages, it is easier to pull out of the ground to get rid of it.  This will assist in eliminating the return of scotch broom and encourage regrowth of native grasses and other desirable vegetation.