Management Plan for a Degraded Meadow Infested with Morrow's Honeysuckle

West Virginia University; Love, Jason; Edalgo, Jennifer; Anderson, James

Morrow’s honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii) is an invasive exotic shrub that was brought to the United States from Japan circa 1875. Since that time, it has spread from gardens and hedgerows and now can be found in many natural areas in the eastern and mid-western United States. At Fort Necessity National Battlefield, the shrub has invaded both forests and fields, where it out-competes native plants, reducing biodiversity and altering the cultural landscape. We set up experiments to assess the effect of the shrub on small mammals, songbirds, amphibians, reptiles, earthworms, invertebrates, and a declining gamebird, American Woodcock. In addition, we established experimental plots to test methods to control the shrub. The goal of the various studies was to develop a comprehensive management plan that will be used to help guide restoration efforts of honeysuckle-dominated areas. We identified 11 species of small mammals, 33 species of birds, 6 species of amphibians, 3 species of reptiles, and 4 species of exotic earthworms. We found that Morrow’s honeysuckle negatively affects herbivorous insects, since most are not adapted to feed on the leaves, thus songbirds, may also be negatively impacted. The results of the study reveal that a foliar application of glyphosate is the cheapest and most effective method to control the shrub. Mechanically pulling up the shrub also is effective, but is labor intensive. For restoration to be successful following honeysuckle removal, managers should: 1) follow-up treatments with another round of herbicide spraying to kill emerging exotics, 2) plant native herbs and seeds to help prevent the establishment of exotic plants, 3) plant native shrubs and trees, 4) control the deer herd from browsing the newly planted herbs and shrubs, and 5) maintain the area by periodic removal of exotics, mowing and/or prescribed fire. Following these recommedations should help restore both the historical and ecological landscape at Fort Necessity National Battlefield.

Management Plan for a Degraded Meadow Infested with Morrow's Honeysuckle

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