Knotweed Control in the Luckiamute Watershed
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Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) has the dubious distinction of being labeled as one of the world's worst invasive species by the World Conservation Union. Its extensive root system not only damages concrete foundations and roadways, it also wreaks havoc in the ecosystems where it takes hold. At the Luckiamute Watershed Council, we have placed Japanese knotweed on the top of our "hit list" and have been prioritizing its removal along the Luckiamute and Little Luckiamute Rivers.
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"Thank you for fighting invasives on our property!" - Luckiamute Landowner |
This photo from 2010, taken before knotweed control efforts had begun, shows rampant Japanese knotweed growth along the Upper Luckiamute at Wildwood Bridge.
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This 2013 photo shows the same area after knotweed control. Native vegetation has rebounded and both riparian function and wildlife habitat along the river corridor have greatly improved.
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What is Knotweed?
Japanese knotweed is a noxious, invasive weed that creates dense thickets, out-competes native vegetation and dominates streamside vegetation, reducing habitat and shade along the river. Also called Mexican bamboo, Japanese bamboo, Fleece-flower and Elephant ear, Japanese knotweed was first introduced to North America in the late 1800's as an ornamental. However, its aggressive growth and adaptability has helped it to invade riparian environments throughout the United States, including a broad extent of the Luckiamute. Do you have knotweed on your property? Click here for a handy guide to Japanese knotweed identification throughout the year, and stay tuned for upcoming landowner workshops. Help us knock out knotweed!
Where are we fighting Knotweed?
Starting in 2010, the Luckiamute Watershed Council has conducted three full seasons of knotweed control with willing landowners through the Model Watershed Special Investment Partnership along the upper Luckiamute River. In 2013, we were awarded four-year funding from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) towards our efforts to eradicate knotweed along the Luckiamute and Little Luckiamute Rivers. Thanks to OWEB and help from many project partners, the Council is now actively working with landowners to control knotweed along its entire extent in the watershed. With more than 90% landowner participation along the Luckiamute and Little Luckiamute Rivers, we will continue to treat once per year control this devastating noxious weed.
Why Care?
Invasive weeds displace native plants and wildlife. They reduce biodiversity, impede water flow and water quality, alter hydrologic conditions and flooding regimes, increase soil erosion, decrease land values, reduce crop yield and quality, and completely change how natural ecosystems function. If you suspect you have knotweed, contact the Luckiamute Watershed Council at 503-837-0237 or please email us at info@luckiamutelwc.org. We'll be there to help.
