An Annotated Bibliography:
Invasive Weed Resources and Internet Sites

Sources are organized alphabetically under the following headings: Classification, Databases, Education, Fire, Impacts, Inventory & Monitoring, Mapping (including GPS), and Weed Information. When applicable, secondary keywords are listed with each source.

Classification

1.   Old, Richard. (2003) XID Expert Identification System, [Web Page]. URL http://www.xidservices.com/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Classification, Software
Abstract: XID keys can be as simple or sophisticated as the author wishes, making this program as useful to junior high school teachers as it is to scientific specialists.  Such programs offer many advantages over traditional dichotomous keys. While originally produced to increase speed and ease of use, they also provide the ability to easily update the data and images, and are much cheaper to produce and more compact than hard copy guides. In general, much more data is included on each item/species than is necessary to identify it.  With this abundance of data, the user can identify any of the items/species using the characteristics most obvious and easy to describe. With each characteristic entered by the user, the program eliminates all species that do not have the combination of features entered.

Database

1.   Butterfield, C. J. S. a. J. S. (1999)  Species Abstracts of Highly Disruptive Exotic Plants [Web Page]. URL http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/othrdata/exoticab/exoticab.htm [2003, August].
Keywords: Database
Abstract: The pages that follow include the ranking system, developed by Ronald Hiebert and James Stubbendiek, and comprehensive abstracts for each species that was ranked as highly disruptive in the areas that have been surveyed. The abstracts contain information on the taxonomy, ecology, distribution within the park, control options, and a literature review for each plant.

2.   Rice, P. (Director). INVADERS Database System [Web Page]. URL http://invader.dbs.umt.edu/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Database
Abstract: The INVADERS Database is a comprehensive database of exotic plant names and weed distribution records for five states in the northwestern United States. The spatial and temporal spread of weeds can be displayed using the historic distribution records in INVADERS. The INVADERS web site contains actual examples of how land management and weed regulatory agencies are using these data to improve their weed management programs. Noxious weed listings are provided for all US states and six southern tier Canadian provinces.

3.   U.S. Department of Agriculture, (2003) Fire Effects Information System [Web Page]. URL http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Database
Abstract: The FEIS database contains synoptic descriptions, taken from current English-language literature of almost 900 plant species, about 100 animal species, and 16 Kuchler plant communities found on the North American continent. The emphasis of each synopsis is fire and how it affects each species. Background information on taxonomy, distribution, basic biology and ecology of each species is also included. Synopses are thoroughly documented, and each contains a complete bibliography. Personnel from several land management agencies (USDA Forest Service, USDI-BIA, NPS, BLM, F&WS) identified the species to be included in the database. Those agencies funded the original work and continue to support maintenance and updating of the database.

4.   USDA.  PLANTS - Invasive & Noxious [Web Page]. URL http://plants.usda.gov/cgi_bin/topics.cgi?earl=noxious.cgi  [2003, August].
Keywords: Database, Plants
Abstract: A searchable database of all plants, with links to State noxious weed lists and botanical information

5.   USDA, (2003) Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN), Taxonomic Database [Web Page]. URL  http://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/tax_search.pl  [2003, August].
Keywords: Database, Plants
Abstract: GRIN taxonomic data provide the structure and nomenclature for the accessions of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS). Many plants (37,000 taxa, 14,000 genera) are included in GRIN taxonomy, especially economic plants. A recent paper on GRIN taxonomy provides a thorough discussion of data standards and taxonomic philosophy.

Education

1.   Bottle Biology Project. 1993. Bottle Biology. Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI:Kendall-Hunt Publishing Company.

2.   Carla Hoopes (Project Coordinator). (2003) Pulling Together Against Noxious Weeds [Web Page]. URL http://www.weedawareness.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Education, Land Use
Abstract: This weed awareness site provides references and resources for education and awareness of the serious impacts of noxious weeds on the economy and environment of Montana.  This site represents the work of a committee of land managers from federal and state agencies, local organizations, industry, and concerned individuals across Montana who care about our future.

3.   Bartell, Lisa. (2003). Database of Award Winning Children’s Literature. [Web Page]. URL http://www.dawcl.com/introduction.html. [2003, August].
Keywords: Education, Literature

4.   David Melton, (1985). Written and Illustrated By: A Revolutionary Two-Brain Approach for Teaching Students How to Write and Illustrate Amazing Books. Landmark Editions.
Keywords: Education, Art

5.   Detka, Jon. (2000). Return of the Natives: A curriculum and Online Toolbox for the Restoration of Native Plants & eradication of Invasive Weeds. [Web Page] URL http://watershed.csumb.edu/ron/roncor/cor/index.htm [2003, August].                     Keywords: Education, Activities
Abstract: Return of the Natives (RON) - Cycle of Restoration is designed with the flexibility to be integrated into existing ecology-based curricula to increase awareness about the imposing spread of invasive non-native weeds and the importance of maintaining healthy native plant communities in California.

6.   Krasny, Marianne, et al. (2003). Invasion Ecology. Cornell Scientific Inquiry Series, National Science Teachers Association (NSTA): Arlington, VA.
Keywords: Education, Activities
Abstract: A middle school to high school curriculum

7.   Oregon Field Guide. OFG - Noxious Weeds - Curriculum [Web Page]. URL http://www.opb.org/programs/ofg/908/weeds/index.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Education
Abstract: This resource is not an exhaustive guide to noxious weeds, but it is a good introduction to a current environmental problem. This resource is also a starting point for further discussion and research. The Oregon Field Guide segment touches on a few scientific principles you can explore more fully with your classrooms after or before viewing the video.

8.   Rieben, Elizabeth. How to Prevent the Spread of Noxious Weeds [Web Page]. URL http://www.blm.gov/education/weed/weed.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Education, Activities
Abstract: What's Wrong With This Picture?
Invasive Weeds: A Growing Pain
Many weeds have pretty flowers but they are a growing pain. They crowd out native plants, harm animal habitats and increase erosion.

9.   Simon, B. (Education Specialist). A Teachers Curriculum for Noxious Weed Educational Projects  [Web Page]. URL http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/education/curriculum.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Education, Activities
Abstract: In plant communities across the west - from shrub steppe habitats, to waterways, to Puget Sound prairies - noxious weeds are invading the landscape like an explosion in slow motion. All citizens of the state, young and old included, need to learn and work together to preserve and protect our native ecosystems from further invasion by invasive plant species.

10. Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. Weed Education [Web Page]. URL http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/education/educationhome.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Education
Abstract: The mission of the Washington State Weed Board is to serve as responsible stewards of Washington by protecting and preserving the land and resources from the degrading impact of noxious weeds. The State Weed Board serves as the state’s noxious weed coordination center. Through its actions and policy decisions, the Board coordinates and supports the activities of 48 county noxious weed control boards and weed districts of Washington.
This link directs you to their Education Page.

 Fire

1. Brooks, M. (2001) Invasive Plants and Fire in the Deserts of North America [Web Page]. URL http://www.werc.usgs.gov/pubbriefs/brookspbmar2002.html [2003, August].
Keywords: Fire

Impact

1.  Andrascik, R., et al. (1996) A Strategic Plan for Managing Invasive Nonnative Plants on National Park System Lands [Web Page]. URL http://www.nature.nps.gov/wv/strat_pl.htm  [2003, August].
Keywords: Impact
Abstract: The National Park Service prepared this document to describe the impacts of invasive nonnative plants on the National Park System's natural resources and to outline strategies and tactics to help prevent and manage their spread on National Park System lands. This plan describes for National Park Service managers and partners the management challenges facing the agency and outlines ways to better coordinate all National Park Service programs in the fight against invasive nonnative plants.

Inventory & Monitoring

1. APRS Implementation Team. (2002) Alien plants ranking system version 5.1 [Web Page]. URL http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/2000/aprs/aprs.htm  [2003, August].
Keywords: Inventory & Monitoring
Abstract: The Alien Plants Ranking System (APRS) is a computer-implemented system to help land managers make difficult decisions concerning invasive nonnative plants. The management of invasive plants is difficult, expensive, and requires a long-term commitment. Therefore, land managers must focus their limited resources, targeting the species that cause major impacts or threats to resources within their management, or the species that impede attainment of management goals. APRS provides an analytical tool to separate the innocuous species from the invasive ones (typically around 10% of the nonnative species). APRS not only helps identify those species that currently impact a site, but also those that have a high potential do so in the future. Finally, the system addresses the feasibility of control of each species, enabling the manager to weigh the costs of control against the level of impact.

2.  National Park Service. (2001) Inventory and Monitoring [Web Page]. URL http://www.nature.nps.gov/im/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Inventory & Monitoring
Abstract: The goal of the National Park Service's Natural Resource Inventory and Monitoring Program is to acquire the information and expertise needed by park managers in their efforts to maintain ecosystem integrity in the approximately 270 National park System units that contain significant natural resources.

Mapping, GPS, GIS and Related Software

1. Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (2003) ArcExplorer Mapping Software. [Web Page] URL http://www.esri.com/software/arcexplorer/ [2003, August]                     Keywords: Mapping, software
Abstract:  ESRI creates innovative mapping software for use with GPS equipment in your invasive weed mapping projects. "ESRI is about improving our world and the use of our resources through better information management (Jack Dangermond President, ESRI)” ESRI and the ESRI Logo are licensed trademarks of Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.

2.  Johnson, Dr. D. E. (Project Leader). (2003) WeedMapper [Web Page]. URL http://www.weedmapper.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Mapping
Abstract: WeedMapper is a web-based spatially referenced database of noxious weeds that anyone may query. The database includes locations of noxious weeds throughout Oregon as collected by responsible federal, state, and local agencies. Our electronic maps are viewable at  the state, county, township, or section (square mile) level.
WeedMapper is designed to facilitate identification, reporting, and verification of noxious weeds in the state of Oregon. It provides maps of known infestations of the most serious weed pests, as well as photographs, taxonomic and diagnostic characteristics to assist in their identification.

3.  Oregon Geospatial Data Clearinghouse. (2003). Spatial Data Library, [Web Page] URL http://www.gis.state.or.us/data/  [2003, August]. 

                  Keywords: Mapping, Software

                  Abstract: Part of the Oregon Resources Management Division of the Dept. of Administrative Service, the library contains a vast number of maps available for download in use with GIS software.  A valuable source of Oregon maps.

4.  University of Washington. (2003). NatureMapping of Washington [Web Page] URL http://www.fish.washington.edu/naturemapping/index.html [2003, August].          Keywords: Mapping, Education
Abstract: The NatureMapping Program's vision is to create a national network that links natural resource agencies, academia and land planners with local communities primarily through schools. Our goal is to keep common animals common and to maintain our quality of life. Our approach is to train individuals to become aware of their natural resources and to provide the tools to inventory and monitor their resources.

5.  USGS Biological Services. (2003) National GAP Analysis Program [Web Page]. URL http://www.gap.uidaho.edu/default.htm  [2003, August].
Keywords: Mapping
Abstract: GAP is the acronym used to refer to the Gap Analysis Program of USGS. It could also refer to the fact that GAP is a geographic approach to planning.
Gap Analysis is a proactive approach to protecting biodiversity. It seeks to identify gaps between land areas that are rich in biodiversity and areas that are managed for conservation.
The gap approach is based on three main assumptions:
* The best time to save species is while they are still common;
* it is cheaper to maintain natural populations, than it is to intensely manage endangered populations; and,
* while we cannot perfectly model biodiversity, we can use what we know about the distributions of vertebrate species and vegetation types to assess biodiversity at local, state, regional and national levels.

6.  USGS-NPS. (2003) Applications of USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Data [Web Page]. URL http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/apps/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Mapping
Abstract: The applications described below are provided here to illustrate the wide variety of uses currently being made of the USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program products. They are also provided in the hope that an application described for one park may promote a similar or modified application at a different location. These applications are not funded by the USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program, but make use of the products created by the program.

Weed Information

1.  Booth, B. Weeds: BLM Education [Web Page]. URL http://www.blm.gov/education/weed/pain/  [2002, February 26].
Keywords: Weed Info

2.  Breitenfeldt, T. (Site Supervisor). Mt. Wow [Web Page]. URL http://mtwow.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: This web site will educate you about Montana State Noxious Weeds in a user friendly, how-to, information, link and picture-packed series of pages.  We are dedicated to Integrated Pest (Weed) Management, which means we will inform you of any and all reasonable methods possible to help you fight your 'War On Weeds.

3. Cocannoue, J. A. (1950) Weeds - Guardians of the Soil [Web Page].  URL http://www.journeytoforever.org/farm_library/weeds/WeedsToC.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: So far as we are able to determine this is the first book to be written in praise of weeds. Many are the books which treat weeds as pests, and each season sees an advance in anti-weed campaigns and techniques; a host of chemicals, mechanical eradicators and even flame throwers are making life increasingly hard for nature's greatest and most widely dispersed group of plants -- the plants which stand condemned because they are deemed "out-of-place."

4. Hoopes, C. (Project Coordinator). Pulling Together Against Noxious Weeds [Web Page]. URL http://weedawareness.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: This site represents the work of a committee of land managers from federal and state agencies, local organizations, industry, and concerned individuals across Montana who care about our future.

5. Malone, M. Montana Weed Control Association Noxious Weed Information [Web Page]. URL http://mtweed.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: This site includes a wealth  of noxious weed information.  One of  the projects that MWCA is promoting is The Montana Weed Education and Awareness Campaign. The mission of the campaign is to inform all Montanan’s about noxious weeds and their impact on our enviroment.  Over the past 100  years, noxious weeds have been spreading at an alarming rate.  For example, spotted knapweed arrived on the  west coast in 1893 on the San Juan Islands  Washington.  By 1920, this weed had established itself in over 24 counties in three Northwestern states, with several large infestations near Missoula, Montana.  Now, spotted knapweed is established in every county in the western United States and has invaded five million acres in Montana alone. Large infestations continue to expand, especially along waterways and major transportation routes.  Many other knapweeds, such as yellow starthisle, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, and square rose knapweed have similar invasion rates throughout the western United States. Leafy spurge and many other noxious weeds are invading from the east, rather than the west.  In our opinion, if these weeds continue to spread at their current rate for the next 100 years, they will dominate most western rangelands. The Montana Weed Control Association is dedicated to educate the landowners, recreationists, and visitors why the control of noxious weeds is so important to the well being of Montana.  This web site's purpose is to provide the visitor with indentification information, the dangers of noxious weeds, and control recommendations.  If you have further questions check out the information page.  We hope the site will answer your questions.  If you have additional questions e-mail us with your questions.   A weed control expert will provide information on your question. 

6.  McFall, W. (Project contact). Idaho's OnePlan [Web Page]. URL http://www.oneplan.org/Crop/1cPestM.htm [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: A consortium of agencies with many links to information about invasive weeds in Idaho

7.  Murphy, A. Center for Invasive Plant Management [Web Page]. URL http://weedcenter.org/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: The Center for Invasive Plant Management represents a coalition of agencies, organizations, and individuals interested in managing invasive plants and maintaining healthy ecosystems in western North America. Enhancing land manager and public education, coordinating regional research, facilitating partnerships, increasing multidisciplinary communication, and implementing practical management programs are the Center’s goals.

8. National Invasive Species Council. (2003) A Gateway to Federal and State Invasive Species Activities and Programs [Web Page]. URL http://www.invasivespecies.gov/index.shtml  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: Invasivespecies.gov is the gateway to Federal efforts concerning invasive species. On this site you can learn about the impacts of invasive species and the Federal government's response, as well as read select species profiles and find links to agencies and organizations dealing with invasive species issues. Invasivespecies.gov is also the website for the National Invasive Species Council, which coordinates Federal responses  to the problem.

9.  Plant Conservation Alliance's Alien Plant Working Group. (2003) Weeds Gone Wild: Alien Plant Invaders of Natural Areas [Web Page]. URL http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/index.htm  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: A web-based project of the Plant Conservation Alliance's Alien Plant Working Group, that provides information for the general public, land managers, researchers, and others on the serious threat and impacts of invasive alien (exotic, non-native) plants to the native flora, fauna, and natural ecosystems of the United States.
This site provides a compiled national list of invasive plants infesting natural areas throughout the U.S., background information on the problem of invasive species, illustrated fact sheets that include plant descriptions, native range, distribution and habitat in the U.S., management options, suggested alternative native plants, and other information, and selected links to relevant people and organizations.

10.    The Nature Conservancy, W. I. S. T. (2003) Invasives on the Web [Web Page]. URL http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu/  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info,
Abstract: TNC statement: "It might seem strange that an organization like The Nature Conservancy, which is dedicated to protecting biodiversity, practices weed management. Does this conflict with our goal of preserving biodiversity? Not at all! On our preserves we strive to protect the native plants, animals, and communities that live there. Weeds are those plants that interfere with this objective. If a non-native plant is decreasing the native biodiversity, we consider it a weed and decide whether we must take action to protect the native plants, animals, and communities on our lands."

11.             Westbrooks, R. G. (1998) Invasive Plants: Changing the Landscape of America: Fact Book [Web Page]. URL https://www.denix.osd.mil/denix/Public/ES-Programs/Conservation/Invasive/intro.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info
Abstract: "Developed by Dr. Randy Westbrooks and the Federal Interagency Committee for the Management of Noxious and Exotic Weeds (FICMNEW), this fact book is intended to raise awareness of the destruction and economic losses caused by invasive plants in the United States. We hope this compilation of facts will encourage individual and collaborative efforts to respond to this threat to the integrity of the nation's ecosystems."
Mark Schaefer, Ph.D.
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science U.S. Department of the Interior

Weed Information, Control

1. Dremann, C. (2002) Craig's Juicy Native Grass Gossip & Research: Weeds and Persistent Exotics on Public Lands, Vol 6 [Web Page]. URL http://www.batnet.com/rwc-seed/juicy.gossip.six.html  [2003, August].
Keywords: Weed Info, Control
Abstract: EXOTIC INVASIVE PLANTS. Public land agencies, for the past fifteen years, have been moving toward a concept called "ecosystem management", which includes a concern about exotic plants that interfere with ecosystem function. The spread of exotic invasive plants is the principle focus of this concern, with plans developing for control and eradication. Exotic plants impact natural ecosystems, and have the possibility of spreading off the public land onto private property. Billions of dollars will be needed to get the exotic invasive plants on public lands (including highway right-of-ways) under control within the next few decades. However, there is another class of plants, other than exotic invasives, which disrupt ecosystem function and need to be looked at: the persistent exotics.