Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is an invasive annual grass that has become a significant ecological concern in Salida, Colorado. Originally from Eurasia, it was introduced to North America in the late 1800s and has since spread extensively across the western United States, including Colorado. In Salida, cheatgrass disrupts native plant communities, reduces biodiversity, fragments wildlife habitat and increases the risk of wildfires due to its early drying and high flammability.
Cheatgrass is a winter annual that germinates in the fall, grows rapidly in early spring, and completes its life cycle by early summer. This early growth allows it to outcompete native vegetation for water and nutrients but makes it easy to identify as the grass that’s developing seed heads before any other grass (aka right now!) Cheat Grass can sometimes go through two life cycles in one summer! Once mature, cheatgrass dries out, creating a continuous layer of fine, highly flammable fuel that significantly increases the risk of wildfires. In Salida, this poses a threat to both natural ecosystems and human communities. The sharped, barbed seeds can also be dangerous to dogs, entering through paws, ears and nose, becoming lodged and creating abscesses.
Hand pulling is an effective method for controlling cheatgrass in small areas, such as residential yards, community gardens, and along trails. The Chaffee County Noxious Weed Program recommends hand pulling during spring and fall, repeating the process when new plants appear. It's crucial to remove the plants before they set seed to prevent further spread. Unfortunately, I’m getting this article out too late this year, and much of the sprouted cheat grass has already gone to seed. That means you’ll need to bag it to avoid spreading the seeds. Learn to identify it this year, and next year, begin pulling in April before the cheatgrass goes to seed. When pulling, extract as much of the root as possible to reduce regrowth. This method is labor-intensive but environmentally friendly and suitable for areas where chemical treatments are undesirable.(Extension, US Forest Service)
Community engagement is vital in managing cheatgrass in Salida. The Chaffee County Weed Department offers consultations to help landowners manage invasive weeds on their property. They can provide guidance on best management practices (chaffeecounty.org) After removing cheatgrass, it's important to restore the area with native vegetation to prevent reinfestation. Re-seeding with native grasses and forbs can help reestablish a healthy ecosystem. Maintaining healthy plant communities and minimizing soil disturbance are key strategies in preventing cheatgrass establishment. Regular monitoring and early detection are also crucial in managing this invasive species.
Cheatgrass poses a significant threat to the ecosystems of Salida, Colorado. Through diligent hand pulling, community involvement, and restoration efforts, it's possible to mitigate its impact and protect native biodiversity. By working together, residents of Salida can help preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of their community. For more pictures and videos of cheatgrass, see this video that I made for GARNA back in 2020: https://youtu.be/_iqR8RGD1X4?si=bSdhouVlG9iVnLa6
Ignore the information in the video about Clean Up Green Up. This year, Clean Up Green UP takes place next week on Saturday, May 17.
Written by Councilmember Dominique Naccarato
References:
· Colorado State University Extension. "Cheatgrass and Wildfire." · Chaffee County Weed Department. "Weed Management." (chaffeecounty.org) · Natural Resources Conservation Service. "Cheatgrass Management Handbook." (Natural Resources Conservation Service) · Glacier View Meadows Ecology. "Cheatgrass." (Glacier View Meadows Ecology)