Introduced in Alaska as attractive ornamentals Prunus padus (Mayday tree) and Prunus virginiana have been deemed invasive species, plants that can greatly affect native ecosystems. Prunus padus is especially aggressive and is now rapidly invading riparian streams and natural forests in Southcentral Alaska and Fairbanks. Prunus padus can take over the understory of forests and forms thickets where native plants once grew. There are documented moose fatalities from Prunus cyanide poisoning. When compared to native streamside vegetation, EBC growing along Anchorage creeks has been shown to produce significantly less insect biomass. Insects falling into the creeks from streamside vegetation are known to be a critical food resource for juvenile salmonids. As EBC displaces native vegetation along Alaska’s waterways, it will likely adversely affect salmon populations over time. Systemic herbicides applied by a certified applicator are the most effective way to control and eradicate prunus species. In 2017 the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA) banned the sale of EBC within the municipal boundaries. In March 2019 the MOA Watershed & Natural Resources Advisory Commission passed a resolution supporting the use of herbicides for invasive species control. Project Description The USFS and the DNR, Division of Forest Community Forestry and Forest Health programs will provide grant monies available to local governments and non-profits to remove invasive Prunus padus and Prunus virginiana, in the 2020 field season. Project goals are that prominent Prunus padus and Prunus virginiana locations will be documented, additional certified pesticide management consultants and applicators will be trained, and that significant stands of Prunus padus and Prunus virginiana will be removed. Early detection, rapid response, treatment and removal of new or isolated locations of Prunus padus and Prunus virginiana is also a primary goal. Funds will be granted to awardees who have knowledge and commitment to removing Prunus padus from their communities. Grantees may use some combination of manual, mechanical, and/or chemical control methods and identify infestations not located on federal lands. Contact okonek@mtaonline.net for more information on Talkeetna area Mayday Tree eradication. |
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