Military Training and Road Effects onImperata cylindrica(L.) Beauv. (Cogongrass)

Abstract

Type, level, and intensity of human activities may facilitate establishment and spread of invasive plant species. A better understanding of how human activities infl uence invasion can assist land managers in developing strategies for control and monitoring of invasive plants. Spread of the invasive species Imperata cylindrica (Cogongrass) has been attributed to human activities. During 2002I 2004, on Camp Shelby Training Site, MS, we investigated relationships between military activity and establishment and growth of Cogongrass. In areas of soil disturbance from mili- tary equipment, vegetative linear growth rates of 7I 10 m yr -1 were recorded on fi ring points. There was a positive relationship between military troop use and Cogongrass establishment on fi ring points for one of the 2 years of the study (P = 0.023). Thus, steps to minimize soil disturbance in and near Cogongrass may reduce spread. We examined frequency of Cogongrass infestation and vegetative growth rates for road- side areas along gravel roads subject to at least annual mowing and grading, and dirt tracks receiving infrequent maintenance. Cogongrass spread and establishment on roadsides did not differ for the two road types (Pi 0.116). These results may refl ect activities already in place to reduce disturbance of Cogongrass patches.