Vegetational Succession Following a Broadcast Treatment of Glyphosate to a Wild Reed Stand in a Utility Right-of-Way

Michael R. Haggie, Richard A. Johnstone, Roland J. Limpert, and Hubert A. Allen

Tree, shrub, and herbaceous vegetation succession is documented following an aerial broadcast application of glyphosate, and subsequent selective applications, to a non-tidal wetland on a Delmarva Power right-of-way (ROW) in central Delaware. Herbaceous vegetation was initially dominated by the ecologically invasive, non-native, wild reed (Phragmites australis), while woody vegetation was dominated by undesirable red maple (Acer rubrum) and black willow (Salix nigra). The herbicide treatment resulted in the elimination of almost all vegetation in the initial year post-treatment. However, 65 ecologically desirable herbaceous and only one undesirable species were present within two years post-treatment. Species compositional changes over the five year study period are discussed, with emphasis on compatibility with the operation and maintenance of a ROW, and the effect on biodiversity and wildlife habitat potential. The relative dominance of desirable and undesirable herbaceous and woody vegetation is documented.

Keywords: Right-of-way (ROW), succession, herbicide, Phragmites, Delaware, relative dominance, frequency, herbaceous, shrub