Managing Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) in Parks and Protected Areas: A Case Study of Rondeau Provincial Park (Ontario, Canada) |
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Authors: | Colette Meloche Stephen D Murphy |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Environment and Resource Studies, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada;(2) Present address: Environment Canada, Environmental Protection Branch, Qimugjuk Building 969, P.O. Box 1870, Iqaluit, Nunavut, X0A 0H0 |
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Abstract: | The Carolinian Life Zone in southwestern Ontario, Canada is valued because it represents an almost disjunct ecosystem (i.e.,
one that is typical of the mid-Atlantic United States, rather than the rest of Canada or the nearby states in the United States).
The landscape of the Carolinian Life Zone has undergone dramatic transformation, especially in recent decades as agriculture,
urbanization, and recreation have intensified. One of the most apparent changes is the invasion of exotic plant species that
exacerbates the need for mass restoration efforts. Within the Carolinian Life Zone, Rondeau Provincial Park has experienced
an influx of nonindigenous, invasive species in recent years. Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is one example. The infestation is still relatively localized to (mainly) the park, slowly spreading, and manageable as long
as something is done immediately. We examined the effects of hand-pulling and mulching, cut stump and glyphosate application,
cut stump alone, and the EZJect Capsule Injection System (using glyphosate) on the management of A. altissima within the park. Cut stump and glyphosate treatment was most effective and efficient in its control of young A. altissima shoots because it limits disturbance and has acceptable capital and operating costs. Hand-pulling and mulching was the second
choice, mainly because of the risk of additional disturbance that increased shoot densities 1 year after treatment. Cut stump
alone was not effective, worsened the infestation, and is not recommended for this species. The EZJect system was effective
at managing mature, seed-producing shoots, although the somewhat higher capital costs mean that the system probably should
be purchased for management of several invasive tree species to make it more cost-effective. |
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Keywords: | Ailanthus altissima Carolinian Life Zone Invasive exotic weeds Parks Weed management Tree-of-heaven |
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