Sessions
Concurrent Session: Wetland science potpourri
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Thu
Co-author: Nic Tippery, UW-Whitewater
Title: Unraveling the knotweed complex with genetics
Abstract: Invasive knotweeds are on the rise in Wisconsin, but may be more cryptic than realized. Recent genetic work from UW-Whitewater reveals that leaf shape and plant characteristics are not enough to determine the correct species visually. We will share the details of Nic's study, which shows that the vast majority of tested stands are indeed the more aggressive and adaptable hybrids instead of the Japonica cultivar. We will discuss the threat of the species complex to ecology and infrastructure and highlight the herbicide resistance and increased growth rate of hybrid knotweed. We will present a call for action regarding further testing, site monitoring, and control.
Bio: Matt Wallrath is happy to continue his career as a conservationist with the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association. A Milwaukee-born and Wisconsin-educated ecologist, he works in the Wisconsin Driftless region doing education, outreach, and control around invasive species issues. He is a council member of the South Central Invasives Partnership and is always looking to connect and foster stewardship.