Who are we?
We are the Marshians and our team consists of (from left to right), Jacob Painton, Rocco Giannangeli, Matthew Tomlinson, and Michael Santana. We chose to research invasive species and remove some from Blue Marsh Lake, specifically at Squirrel Run Trail. The invasive species that we are currently removing from the trail include the Japanese Barberry, Burning Bush, Multiflora Rose and the Oriental Bittersweet.
What are Invasive Species?
Invasive species are any animal, organism, or plant that is introduced into a new environment by humans. Invasive species harm property, native plants, native organisms and animals, and cause ecological and economic damage and often spread rapidly.
What are causes of Invasive Species?
Invasive species may be let loose, brought to a new area on purpose or used for pest control in a new environment and are usually brought without any expectations of consequences.
What are consequences of Invasive Species?
Consequences include:
- Newly introduced species may not have any predators
- Breeding and spreading occurs quickly, taking over an area
- Can outcompete native species for resources
- Can bring or cause diseases
- Changes in the food web entirely
What are some solutions?
Solutions include trapping or hunting animal species can be an effective way to dwindle the population, removing plants by the roots will help reduce the spread of invasive plant species or introduction of predators into an environment.
What Invasive Species are found at Blue Marsh?
Blue Marsh has a variety of invasive species but the ones we primarily worked with are the Japanese Barberry and the Burning Bush.
Japanese Barberry is a plant used as an ornamental that was brought to the U.S. in 1875. It exceeds 4 feet in height and it appears in clusters of 2-4 and are a creamy yellow color by the root.
Burning Bush is native to Asia and was introduced in the 1800s. It is not aggressive but it can grow up to 15 feet tall and take up lots of space.
Below you can see Jacob and Rocco cutting down Burning Bush.
Reflection:
Prior to working at Blue Marsh, our team knew we wanted to work hands on with helping the environment in whatever way we could. We had an idea of invasive species but did not know much about invasive plant species. It was not until we did our research that we were mesmerized by the amount of invasive plant species there is. When we began our work at Blue Marsh, Brianna was wonderful enough to teach us about some of the invasive species that they struggle with there. Learning about these specific invasive species made it easier for us to detect them in the wild and remove them. We enjoyed working as team in removing these species and learned a lot not only from our research but also from our experience.
Service Video:
In our service video, we explain what exactly our service entailed as well as show off the areas in which we worked on. We would like to think Brianna Treichler for all the help guidance as well as Professor K.
Brochure:
