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Invasive Plants and Fire: Increasers, Decreasers, and Management Strategies

Invasive plants have variable responses to fire depending on species, phenology at time of fire, fire intensities, residence time, and other factors. This presentation by Extension Forestry Research Technician Kevin Rohling reviews invasive plant responses to fire and how managers and landowners can use prescribed fire to manage invasive plants. While some invasive plants will be reduced through the use of fire alone, other species may best managed with pre-treatment preparation, sometimes years in advance, and planned follow-up management to reduce population size and spread. Recommendations on preparatory treatments, follow-up treatments, and prevention strategies of some common and new invaders are also discussed.