Invasive Species: Weeds in Wilderness Areas

Invasive Weeds in Wilderness

Invasive weeds are the principal invasive species currently threatening wilderness areas in the Southwestern Region, although other harmful invasive species such as feral swine may also be present. Due to less disturbance or lack of pathways (roads, utility corridors, etc.) that allow invasive weeds to spread, wilderness or other natural areas such as wild and scenic rivers may be less susceptible to invasive weed introductions as compared to other types of public lands. However, invasive weed infestations can still expand exponentially within natural areas, particularly along waterways, livestock driveways, and hiking trails.

Weed Management

To control invasive weeds in wilderness, low-impact practices such as use of hand tools or adjustment of livestock grazing rates should be emphasized to the greatest extent possible. Implementation of control methods in wilderness must conform to ten “prohibited uses” listed in Section 4(c) of the Wilderness Act of 1964 which includes mechanized equipment such as motor vehicles, motor boats, and mechanical transport.

To allow use of mechanized equipment and activities such as herbicide application, completion of a Minimum Requirements Decision Guide (MRDG) form is necessary. MRDGs are primarily used to assess whether management actions in wilderness such as controlling invasive species or performing research is necessary and if so, how they can be implemented with the least impact on wilderness character.

The Guidance for Invasive Species Management in the Southwestern Region has a section containing information on invasive species management in wilderness and other natural areas.  Additional information on MRDGs and controlling invasive species in wilderness may be found at:

• Minimum Requirements Decision Guide Overview
• Minimum Requirements Decision Guide Process Outline
• Wilderness.net

Wilderness Volunteerism

Users of wilderness (hikers, outfitters, rafters, etc.) as well as nearby private landowners are encouraged to volunteer in detecting invasive weeds and performing weed management activities necessary to protect wilderness. In some cases, partnering coalitions may be established for wilderness protection such as adoption of weed control in a particular watershed or river stretch by a non-governmental organization (NGO).

The Forest Service supports volunteerism for protection of wilderness by:

• Providing volunteers with training in identification and control of invasive weeds.
• Contributing resources needed for the volunteer program.
• Recognizing efforts of volunteers through awards and other means of recognition.

For further information on performing volunteer work in wilderness, wilderness specialists on national forests with wilderness areas may be contacted or the SW Region Wilderness Coordinator may also be contacted at (505) 842-3233.