Geographic differentiation of management objectives for invasive species: a case study of Hymenachne amplexicaulis in Australia

Author:

Grice, Tony; Clarkson, John; Calvert, Moya

Date of Publication:

2011-12-01

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Journal Title:

Environmental Science & Policy

Volume:

14

Issue:

8

Pages:

986-997

Abstract:

Effective weed management depends on local actions but these will be more effective and efficient when they are part of a broader scale strategic approach. We illustrate the application of this idea using the case of the invasive wetland grass Hymenachne amplexicaulis in Australia. We assert that, for widespread weeds, different objectives and approaches are appropriate for different parts of a species' introduced range and areas that it might yet invade. In the case of H. amplexicaulis this is because further spread is inevitable unless effective action is taken; there is substantial spatial variation in the risk of invasion and in its impacts; control options and values attributed to the species differ widely from region to region. We define four distinct objectives (prevention, eradication, containment and asset protection) and propose a continent-wide strategy based on 22 management zones that cover mainland Australia and relevant off-shore islands. One of the four objectives is assigned to each zone, commensurate with the status of the plant and the feasibility of achieving particular outcomes. This approach could be usefully applied to more effectively address the broad-scale management of other invasive species. Management zones should reflect the habitat preferences and dispersal mechanisms of the species being targeted.

Publisher:

Elsevier

Field Of Research:

Invasive Species Ecology; Environmental Management

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2011.07.006

URL:

Link to Publisher's Version

Rights Notice:

© 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identifier:

EP105951

Publication Sub Type:

Journal article - Refereed

Language:

English

Attribution Statement:

Grice, Tony; Clarkson, John; Calvert, Moya. Geographic differentiation of management objectives for invasive species: a case study of Hymenachne amplexicaulis in Australia. Environmental Science & Policy. 2011; 14(8):986-997. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2011.07.006