GTM Research Reserve Partners to Control Invasive Plant Species

The Guana Tolamato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve has teamed with other organizations in the St. Augustine, Fla., area to eradicate Brazilian pepper and other invasive plants that have begun to threaten the reserve’s boundaries

The Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolia) is listed as a Category 1 invasive exotic species by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. Brazilian pepper was initially only found in central and southern Florida where it has caused tremendous ecosystem damage, occupying some 700,000 acres of previous natural plant communities such as mangrove stands and hardwood hammocks. This plant is able to create monocultures by secreting chemicals unfavorable to many native plants and creating dense strands impenetrable by other plants.

The arrival of the invader in St. Johns County has prompted The GTM Reserve and St. Johns County Environmental Division to work aggressively to prevent its spread within fragile natural ecosystems. Cutting down the plant and spraying the stump with herbicide is the most accepted control measure for this invasive species.  

After the Fourth of July weekend, the local Student Conservation Association (SCA) joined reserve staff, St. Johns County Environmental Division, Friends of GTM Research Reserve, and members of the South Anastasia Community Association (SACA) to help with the eradication efforts.

SCA members attended a brief orientation about invasive plants and treatment protocols and then accompanied other partners to county-owned sites in Vilano Beach and Crescent Beach to treat several stands of Brazilian pepper, Chinese tallow and giant reed. The week concluded on Friday with a hamburger and hotdog cookout at GTM Research Reserve for the entire partnership team sponsored by the Friends of GTMNERR.

Posted: Thursday, October 15, 2009