Missouri's Conversion to Conservation

Controlling Dames Rocket and Other Invasives

Although Dames Rocket is not a very aggressive invasive plant in Missouri’s climate, like many other invasive species, it warrants careful consideration before planting. Missouri has been implementing an integrated vegetation management strategy to reduce the impact of invasive plant communities on its right of way for a number of years.

Recently the specifications for highway construction have been rewritten to give contractors a greater responsibility to provide a quality product. The expectations for new seeding were upgraded to include a wider range of native species, as well as a stand consisting of the species planted. Occasionally, invasive species can find their way onto new construction in mulch, and provisions were made in the upgraded specifications to reduce this possibility.

This past year MoDOT began a partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation to convert some areas of its right of way to native stands. The areas chosen for this conversion have typically been areas with poor vegetative cover and areas with weedy cover. One of the first areas converted had a population of sericea lespedeza in what was otherwise a high-quality prairie remnant. The departments are working together to control this species, especially in this remnant area because of the potential for contamination of some MDCowned prairies nearby.

Each year MoDOT retrains about a third of its over 1,200 certified pesticide applicators. MoDOT’s annual training for pesticide certification is part of a larger-scale program with the University of Missouri, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Natural Resources. The training covers the proper use, handling, and application techniques for pesticides. Safety, storage, disposal, traffic control, and equipment are discussed. It also covers the identification and control methods for noxious and invasive species. This recurrent training provides MoDOT employees with insights on methods and timing for improved results in reducing the impact of invasive species on right of way.

Through the combination of partnerships, cultural practices, education, and application, Missouri taxpayers and travelers reap several important benefits, including:

• Improved roadside appearance
• Cost savings
• Better sight distance and sign visibility, particularly at intersections and curves
• Reduced roadside erosion
• Less undesirable vegetation
• More habitat for small wildlife
• Protection for state- and federally-designated endangered species

The goal of MoDOT’s roadside management program is to provide consistent roadside vegetation management throughout the state to control erosion, and restrict undesirable growth. State statute mandates noxious weeds must be controlled. One way this is accomplished is through the use of herbicides. This goal is also being worked toward through improved seeding practices, and co-operation with other agencies, entities, and individuals.