Control invasive weeds with the Biocontrol and Targeted Grazing BMP Funding from the Canadian Agricultural Partnership

Large and small infestations of invasive plants degrade native environments, lower the economic potential of the land, and reduce biodiversity.

To minimize the impacts of invasive plants and to ensure the long term health and sustainability of agricultural land a beneficial management practice (BMP) has been created under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) to assist Saskatchewan producers to combat invasive weed infestations.

The Invasive plant biocontrol and targeted grazing BMP is available to eligible producers and grazing associations to contain large-scale invasive plant infestations through the implementation of practices that can use non-herbicide options in areas that are sensitive or applications are not feasible. Targeted grazing by sheep and goats and insect biocontrol are options that can be explored under this BMP.

Leafy Spurge is classified as a noxious weed in Saskatchewan and degrades native grassland, hay crops, pastures, riparian areas, and recreational areas. It can spread by its production of 130,000 seeds and also from the root system. It is resilient to many herbicides and typically needs repetitive control measures done in a growing season.

One example of biocontrol using insects is Leafy Spurge Beetles to contain Leafy Spurge infestations. The larvae and adults of these beetles feed exclusively on Leafy Spurge. Larvae feed on the inner shoots and roots of the plants.

When the larvae emerge as adult beetles they feed on the upper foliage. These tiny controls can help slow down infestations of Leafy Spurge, but be patient! It may take several years and establishment of a healthy beetle population before any results are seen.

The damages done by the beetles as they eat the plant slow down the plant’s growth and may inhibit seed production. The beetles can provide some assistance to control the spread of Leafy Spurge, and is a more practical control in areas where herbicides are not effective or cannot be used.

For more information on this BMP or any other programs under CAP visit www.saskatchewan.ca/CAP or call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377. You can also contact your local AgriEnvironmental Technician or the Swift Current Creek Watershed Stewards at 306-770-4606. CAP is a five?year investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector.