Lake Erie watershed Cooperative Weed management area five year plan

LAKE ERIE WATERSHED

COOPERATIVE WEED

MANAGEMENT AREA FIVE

YEAR PLAN

2021 - 2025

Thomas Cermak, Pennsylvania Sea Grant, [email protected]

Contents

Why is the targeting of invasive species important to the Lake Erie Watershed?......................... 2

What is a CWMA? ................................................................................................................................................... 2

Mission ...................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Background.............................................................................................................................................................. 3

Target Species......................................................................................................................................................... 8

Watch List Species................................................................................................................................................. 8

Goals ........................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Prevention, Early Detection, and Rapid Response .................................................................................... 9

Control, Management, and Restoration...................................................................................................... 11

Education and Outreach................................................................................................................................... 12

Inventory and Monitoring ............................................................................................................................... 14

Site Prioritization and Management Process ........................................................................................... 15

Adapting and Updating the Plan ................................................................................................................... 17

Funding .................................................................................................................................................................. 17

Looking Forward ................................................................................................................................................ 17

Measureable Outcomes .................................................................................................................................... 18

Why is the targeting of invasive species important to the Lake Erie

Watershed?

Invasive plants are non-native species that grow quickly and aggressively, spreading and

displacing native species. Often, these species are introduced to regions far from their native

range. In some cases, the species are transported or spread unknowingly by individuals within a

localized area. Within these new locations, invasive species have the potential to cause harm to

the ecosystem, the economy, as well as to human and animal health. By competing with and

displacing native species, invasive plant infestations alter plant community structure, provide a

host for disease and other troublesome species, alter nutrient cycling and hydrological processes;

increase soil erosion and sedimentation; and reduce species diversity and ecosystem productivity.

In their natural range, these species are limited by environmental factors such as pests and or

diseases. When introduced into an area where natural controls are limited or absent, these species

often become invasive, threatening fragile ecosystems.

From the dune and sand plain communities of the Lake Erie shore to the glacial wetlands farther

south within tributary watersheds, the Pennsylvania Lake Erie Watershed supports some of the

most ecologically rich habitats in the state. Invasive species pose a significant threat to the

biological integrity of diverse ecosystems that intertwine within the region. With over 11,600

acres of publicly owned and managed lands, proactive agency staff, and engaged Non-

Governmental Organizations active within the watershed, the region has a unique opportunity to

work collectively to minimize the various threats posed by invasive species. The primary

functions of the Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area (LEW-CWMA)

include the coordination of invasive species inventory, control, and education activities across

the watershed. By prioritizing efforts, increasing the capacity of individual agencies and

organizations, and leveraging funding for various control efforts, the formation of the LEW-

CWMA has proven to be an effective method to preserve the quality and diversity of the Lake

Erie Watershed’s natural communities.

What is a CWMA?

Cooperative invasive species management is a topic that has grown in popularity in recent years.

Collaborative efforts have been established under the titles of Cooperative Weed Management

Areas, otherwise known as CWMAs, and Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas,

otherwise known as CISMAs. While CWMAs have a primary focus of combating the

establishment and spread of invasive weed species, CISMAs strive to combat invasive species

across various taxonomic groups. Both organizations function under the same overarching goal

of bringing together landowners and land managers to coordinate action and share expertise and

resources to manage invasive species. CWMAs and CISMAs are distinguished by these five

characteristics:

 Defined geographical area distinguished by a common geography, invasive species

concern, community, climate, political boundary, or land use.

 Involvement or representation of a diverse group of landowners and natural resource

managers in the defined area.

 Led by a steering committee.

 Committed to continued cooperation.

 Function under the development of a comprehensive plan that addresses the management

and prevention of one or more invasive species.

Historically, local communities have established various informal partnerships in an effort to

combat invasive species. Informal partnerships have led to significant outcomes in many areas,

but the commitment to continued cooperation created during the formation of a Cooperative

Weed Management Area establishes a long-term relationship that will not disappear after a joint

project is completed. This commitment creates a mechanism for ongoing resource-sharing and

collaboration that can be a highly effective long-term strategy for dealing with a long-term

problem. Locally driven CWMAs are especially effective at generating public interest in weed

management and organizing community groups to support on-the-ground programs.

Mission

The Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area (LEW-CWMA) provides a

framework of communication, planning, and guidance to individuals, groups, organizations, and

agencies engaged in the management of invasive plant species within the Lake Erie Watershed.

The work of the CWMA provides educational opportunities for landowners and land managers,

develops common management objectives, sets realistic management priorities, facilitates

effective treatment, and coordinates efforts over geographical and municipal boundaries with

similar land types, use patterns, and problem species.

Background

Pennsylvania's Lake Erie watershed is located within the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania on

the southern shore of Lake Erie. The watershed is bordered by the State of Ohio to the west and

the State of New York to the east. The watershed extends a minimum of 6.1 miles at its eastern

border and a maximum of 25 miles near its western border south of Lake Erie. The watershed

encompasses portions of Erie and Crawford counties and either portions or the full extent of 33

municipalities and townships. The over 500 square mile Lake Erie Watershed in Pennsylvania is

home to the most ecologically diverse habitats in the state, harboring many rare, endangered, and

threatened species and their habitats. Many of these occurrences and core habitats within the

watershed have been designated as Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) by the Pennsylvania Natural

Heritage Program. Although invasive species are a concern throughout the entire region,

prioritizing the use of limited resources within these sites offer the Lake Erie Watershed -

Cooperative Weed Management Area a unique, science based method to preserve, enhance, and

restore areas of high ecological value within the watershed. The Lake Erie Watershed-

Cooperative Weed Management Area will focus initial efforts within but not limited to the

following areas:

Site

Natural Heritage Area

Description

Global Significance

Presque Isle - Peninsula

NHA

Diverse natural communities on the Peninsula include shoreline,

sand dunes, sandplain and new ponds, marshes and old ponds, and

several forest types. This site supports more than 70 species of

conservation concern, more than any other NHA in the state.

Presque Isle - Bay NHA

As one of the best natural harbors along Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay

and its tributaries provide habitat for 15 species of conservation

concern in PA. Two state endangered fish, Iowa darter and eastern

sand darter, have refugia here.

Presque Isle - Gull Point

NHA

This area is the only example of the Great Lakes beach-dune-

sandplain complex in PA. Comprised of several dynamic lakeshore

community types, the highly diverse Gull Point supports at least 53

species of conservation concern in PA.

Regional Significance

Conneaut Creek NHA

This site supports populations of 14 species of conservation concern,

including 4 mussels.

Erie Bluffs Coastline

NHA

Centered around Erie Bluffs State Park, this site hosts the PA

critically imperiled Great Lakes Bluff Seep community, only

found on steep slopes adjacent to Lake Erie. There are 14 species

and 2 communities of concern supported by this site.

Erie Bluffs East Swamp

NHA

Swamps of Erie Bluffs State Park are home to the critically

imperiled Great Lakes Region Lakeplain Palustrine Forest

community. This habitat supports five plant species of

conservation concern, including state endangered Shumard's oak

and northern water-plantain.

Lower Elk Creek NHA

The waters, forests, and wetlands of Lower Elk Creek support 15

species of conservation concern in PA.

Roderick Reserve NHA

This site consists of a mix of upland forest and forested wetlands.

These habitats support populations of 5 plant species of

conservation concern. Included among these is PA endangered

northern water-plantain.

West Branch Conneaut

Creek NHA

Forests, forested wetlands, and aquatic habitats at this site support 11

species and two natural communities of conservation concern.

Pumpkin ash, critically imperiled in PA, and Red Maple-Black-

gum Palustrine Forest can be found here.

State Significance

Asbury Woods - East

NHA

Forested wetlands at this site support PA critically imperiled

pumpkin ash.

Asbury Woods - West

NHA

Forested wetlands at this site support 7 plant species of conservation

concern in PA. Four of these are state endangered, including

golden-fruited sedge, Bebb's sedge, slender spike-rush, and showy

mountain ash.

Ashtabula Creek

Headwaters NHA

This site supports PA critically imperiled pumpkin ash and is a

candidate for classification as Elm-Ash-Maple Lakeplain Forest, a

PA critically imperiled community type.

Cemetery Road Bluffs

NHA

The PA rare Great Lakes Bluff Seep plant community type is found

at this site. Seven plant species of conservation concern are

supported here.

Conneauttee Creek NHA

Floodplain forests along Conneauttee Creek support a population of

red currant, a PA threatened plant species.

Crooked Creek, Erie

County NHA

This site supports a sensitive species of conservation concern.

Devil's Backbone NHA

Centered on Little Elk Creek, Devil's Backbone is a PA critically

imperiled River Bluff Seep community that supports three plant

species of conservation concern.

East Branch Conneaut

Creek NHA

Forested waterways at this site provide aquatic habitat for two

sensitive species of conservation concern.

Elk Creek NHA

The shale bluffs above Elk Creek support a River Bluff Seep

community, critically imperiled in PA, which provides habitat for

four plant species of conservation concern. Among these plants is

state endangered Canada buffalo-berry

Elk Creek - McKean

NHA

Riparian habitat at this site supports a sensitive species of

conservation concern.

Erie Bluffs Sand Dune

NHA

An ancient sand dune supports a Black Oak Savanna - Midwest Sand

Barren plant community, found only on dry sand ridges and relict

dunes of the Lake Erie Region. Two plant species of conservation

concern are also found at the site.

Erie Bluffs West Swamp

NHA

This site supports an Elm-Ash-Maple Lakeplain Forest community

which is critically imperiled in PA. Populations for three plant

species of conservation concern are found here, including state

endangered Shumard's oak and pumpkin ash.

Fairview Business Park

Wet Meadow NHA

Wet meadows at this site provide breeding habitat for a sensitive

species of conservation concern.

Fairview Hatchery Ponds

NHA

Alkaline aquatic habitats at this site support two species of damselfly

and one dragonfly species of conservation concern in PA.

Fairview Swamp NHA

This wetland is likely the critically imperiled Elm-Ash-Maple

Lakeplain Forest community type and supports two plant species

of conservation concern: pumpkin ash and false hop sedge.

Falls Run NHA

The waters of Falls Run support two fish species of conservation

concern: southern redbelly dace and brook stickleback.

Falls Run Gorge NHA

Riparian forest habitat along the Falls Run gorge supports

populations of the globally vulnerable West Virginia white

butterfly, three state rare plant species, and a sensitive species of

conservation concern.

Falls Run - Shenango

Creek Headwaters NHA

Forested and open wetlands at this site provide critical habitat for the

state imperiled harlequin darner and a noctuid moth.

Fourteen Mile Point

Beach NHA

Sandy beach habitat at this site hosts two plant species of

conservation concern in PA: American sea-rocket and beach

peavine, state threatened.

Gospel Hill NHA

Forest and aquatic habitats at this site support a sensitive species of

conservation concern.

Greenlee Road NHA

Diverse wetland types support two plant species of conservation

concern at this site. These include PA threatened prairie sedge and

highbush cranberry.

Highmeyer Road Park

NHA

Forested wetland at this site supports the PA critically imperiled

Elm-Ash-Maple Lakeplain Forest. A wet meadow provides habitat

for state endangered northern water-plantain and state threatened

stalked bulrush.

Howard Eaton Reservoir

NHA

This site provides important habitat for two insects of special

concern: bronze copper (butterfly) and white-faced meadowhawk

(dragonfly).

Lake Erie Coastline - East

of Raccoon Creek NHA

This site supports two plant species of conservation concern. These

are the PA endangered variegated horsetail and PA threatened

small-headed rush.

Lake Erie Coastline -

Roderick NHA

This stretch of Lake Erie shoreline supports six plant species of

conservation concern in PA. Among these species is the state

endangered variegated horsetail.

Lake Erie Community

Park NHA

Lake bluff and forest ravine habitats support three plant species of

conservation concern. The Great Lakes Bluff Seep plant

community, critically imperiled in PA, is also found at this site.

Lower Walnut Creek

NHA

This site supports four species of conservation concern in PA.

Among these are state threatened common hop-tree and state rare

longnose gar.

McLane Fens NHA

There are five plant species of conservation concern that are

supported by forested wetlands at this site. Kames, or small gravel

hills created by glaciers, filter the water feeding these wetlands and

create an alkaline environment that can support these rare plants.

Manchester Beach NHA

This beach natural community supports populations of 6 plant

species of conservation concern. Among these is the PA

endangered purple sandgrass.

Mercyhurst Fen NHA

Comprised of a PA critically imperiled Buckthorn-Sedge-Golden

Ragwort Fen community, this site supports seven plant species of

conservation concern. Among these are PA endangered hooded

ladies' tresses orchid and small-headed rush.

Northeast Lake Bluff

Seeps NHA

Only found along steep lake or stream side slopes in the Great Lakes

ecoregion, this Great Lakes Bluff Seep community provides

refugia for four plant species of conservation concern. Among

these are PA endangered variegated horsetail and Carolina grass-

of-parnassus.

Pond Road Wetlands -

North NHA

Forested wetlands north of Pond Road support a population of larger

St. John's wort, a plant species listed as threatened in PA.

Pond Road Wetlands -

South NHA

This site contains an Elm-Ash-Maple Lakeplain Forest community,

critically imperiled in PA. Eleven additional species of

conservation concern have populations at this site.

Raccoon Creek Swamp

NHA

This site is comprised of the PA critically imperiled Elm-Ash-Maple

Lakeplain Forest community, and it supports a population of

pumpkin ash, also critically imperiled in PA.

Raccoon Creek Beach

NHA

This site supports several plant species of conservation concern,

including the PA endangered variegated horsetail.

Roderick Ponds NHA

This cluster of artificial pond wetlands provides habitat for the state

rare bronze copper butterfly, and both the amber-winged

spreadwing and azure bluet damselflies.

Shades Beach NHA

This site supports seven plant species of conservation concern in PA,

including state endangered golden-fruited sedge, bushy cinquefoil,

and Canada buffalo-berry.

38 Six Mile Creek Gorge

NHA

The steep gorge walls along Six-Mile Creek support a complex of

River Bluff Seep communities, critically imperiled in PA. These

bluffs, along with upland forest, floodplain, and riverine habitat

support 6 species of conservation concern.

Sixteen Mile Creek Gorge

NHA

Steep slopes along Sixteen Mile Creek support the Great Lakes Bluff

Seep community type, critically imperiled in PA. Two plant

species of conservation concern and one sensitive species of

conservation concern are found at this site.

Springfield Township

Vernal Pools NHA

This forested site contains several ephemeral pool wetlands,

considered vulnerable in PA. These vernal pools vary in wetness

throughout the year and provide critical springtime breeding

habitat for amphibians like spotted salamander and wood frog.

Twenty Mile Creek NHA

This forested stretch of Twenty Mile Creek supports populations of

three species of conservation concern and includes a River Bluff

Seep natural community, critically imperiled in PA.

Twenty Mile Creek Beach

NHA

Sandy beach and aquatic habitats at the mouth of Twenty Mile Creek

support a state critically imperiled Great Lakes Sparsely Vegetated

Shore community and nine plant species of conservation concern.

Among these are PA endangered bushy cinquefoil and purple

sandgrass.

Twenty Mile Creek Gorge

NHA

Steep slopes along this forested section of Twenty Mile Creek

support a River Bluff Seep community, critically imperiled in PA,

and six additional species of conservation concern. Included

among these are PA endangered golden-fruited sedge and capillary

beaked-rush.

Vineyard Swamp NHA

Forested wetlands at this site support populations of two plant

species of conservation concern: cyperus-like sedge and yellow

water-crowfoot.

Walnut Creek Gorge

NHA

Steep slopes support the state rare River Bluff Seeps. This site's

forests and wetlands also support populations for six plant species

of conservation concern. Among these are PA endangered golden-

fruited sedge, variegated horsetail, and brook lobelia.

West Springfield - Route

20 NHA

This site supports an occurrence of racemed milkwort, critically

imperiled in PA.

Wintergreen Gorge NHA

Steep slopes along Fourmile Creek support the PA critically

imperiled River Bluff Seep community. Populations for at least

four plant species of conservation concern are found here. Among

these are state endangered golden-fruited sedge, and Canada

buffalo-berry.

Over the last five years cooperative weed management has proven to be an effective method to

address invasive species concerns throughout the region. The Lake Erie Watershed –

Cooperative Weed Management Area effort has provided increased capacity to partnering

organizations and allowed them to leverage their resources. The LEW-CWMA has conducted

invasive plant inventories throughout the watershed, served as an effective mechanism for early

detection in rapid response, undertaken treatment efforts at the regional scale, and provided

educational opportunities for resource managers and private landowners alike. Multiple state

agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, private landowners, and other

and local community volunteers have worked together to restore and enhance several unique

natural communities within the Lake Erie Watershed. Some highlights that have occurred since

the group’s inception include:

1.) Partnered with organizations such as the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Penn State

University, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Lake Erie Region Conservancy,

Audubon Society, Mercyhurst University, Erie and Crawford County Conservation

Districts, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, as well as

private property owners to complete treatment efforts on approximately 916 acres

2.) Identified the first known occurrence of hydrilla within the Pennsylvania Lake Erie

watershed and led the rapid response effort to control this infestation

3.) Provided educational opportunities for both private landowners as well as natural

resource managers at events such as Elk Creek Landowner Workshop

4.) Worked with regional stakeholders to form an Ailanthus altissima/Spotted Lanternfly

working group

5.) Assisted in the establishment of the French Creek Watershed CWMA that is located

directly to the southeast of the LEW-CWMA focal area

Target Species- The Lake Erie Watershed – Cooperative Weed Management Area has and

will continue to actively manage the following species: Japanese barberry (Berberis tunbergii),

Glossy Buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula), Exotic bush honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), Tree of heaven

(Ailanthus altissima), European black alder (Alnus glutinosa), Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus

orbiculatus), Exotic privet (Ligustrum Spp.) Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Multiflora

rose (Rosa multiflora), Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Japanese stiltgrass (Mircostegium

vimineum), Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), Myrle (Vinca minor), Narrow leaf cattail

(Typha angustifolia), Hybrid cattail (Typha x glauca), Common reed (Phragmites australis),

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

Watch List Species – The Lake Erie Watershed – Cooperative Weed Management Area has

and will remain vigilant in its monitoring of the following species:

Terrestrial Species: Porcelain berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunclata), Black swallowwort

(Cynanchum louiseae), Pale swallowwort (Cynanchum rossicum), Lesser celandine (Ranunculus

ficaria)

Aquatic Species: Brazilian waterweed (Egeria densa), Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticllata), Parrot

feather watermilfoil (Myriophyllum aquaticum), Broadleaf watermilfoil (Myriophyllum

herterophyllum), Yellow floatingheart (Nymphoides peltata), European Frogbit (Hydrocharis

morsus-ranae), Water Chestnut (Trapa natans)

Goals

Globally, invasive species continue to spread and threaten quality of life. Locally, the

productivity of private and public lands are at risk, and more specifically many of the

ecologically rich and sensitive habitats within the Lake Erie watershed area being overwhelmed

by invasive plants. Members of the LEW-CWMA have worked collectively to establish and are

committed to pursuing the following goals:

1. Prevent the introduction, reproduction, and spread of designated noxious weeds and

invasive exotic plants within the Lake Erie Watershed.

2. Lead control efforts within priority areas to restore native species and habitats.

3. Increase awareness and support for the CWMA through education and outreach efforts.

4. Conduct seasonal invasive plant inventories to determine the distribution of species

throughout the watershed.

5. Work collectively to increase the capacity of partnering organizations locally while also

collaborating with other CWMAs and CISMAs throughout the state.

Prevention, Early Detection, and Rapid Response

The most feasible and effective strategy in the fight against invasive species is the prevention of

their spread and establishment. Preventative measures offer the most cost-effective approach to

reducing future environmental and economic impacts. However, if prevention efforts fail, early

detection and rapid response (EDRR) provide a second critical step to minimize the negative

implications of any new infestation. When new invasive species infestations are detected, a

prompt and coordinated containment and eradication response can reduce environmental and

economic impacts. This coordinated action results in a lower demand of resources and is less

damaging than implementing a long-term control program after the species has established. The

Lake Erie Watershed – Cooperative Weed Management Area has proven its effectiveness in

Early Detection and Rapid Response efforts through activities such as the development of a

regional early detection species list, conducting an early detection species workshop, identifying

early detection species infestations, as well as proving the group’s ability to lead coordinated

rapid response control efforts.

Approach

The Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area’s approach to prevention, early

detection and rapid response provides a comprehensive framework of education, inventory,

monitoring and control. The LEW-CWMA will strive to provide educational opportunities to a

broad audience through focused outreach, presentations, social media, and interpretive signage

placed at recreational hotspots. With the growing utilization of the iMapInvasives database and

mobile app, we will continue to encourage stakeholders to document invasive species wherever

they might occur. All LEW-CWMA partners will be encouraged to participate in data gathering

and be provided with training as well as login information for the iMapInvasives program.

Finally, the Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area will continue to

encourage landowners and interested individuals to report all new invasive species populations,

and to take the initiative to manage their own properties with guidance from the LEW-CWMA.

Goal: Prevent the introduction, reproduction, and spread of designated noxious weeds and

invasive plants into and throughout the Lake Erie Watershed.

1. Objective: Build upon the existing early detection framework and promote this

mechanism amongst CWMA partners.

Strategy: Encourage partners to report all invasive species distributional data via the

iMapInvasives website or mobile app and utilize the website’s alert system.

2. Objective: Develop Best Management Practices (BMP’s) to prevent the spread and

establishment of invasive plants in road and utility ROWs and other possible

transportation corridors.

Strategy: Work with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, utility

companies, and municipalities to share and develop BMPs for the control of invasive

species currently within Right of Way’s (ROWs) and prevent the initial establishment

of new invasive species.

3. Objective: Improve communication between existing natural resource professionals and

growing volunteer networks.

Strategy: Provide opportunities for natural resource managers and private land

managers to gather, expand knowledge of invasive species ID and control methods,

and share expertise.

4. Objective: Encourage use of the online mapping tool for locational data.

Strategy: Encourage the use of iMapInvasives as a centralized, online mapping

system that will show exact locations of invasive infestations and allow for the input

of management actions and the consolidation of information across the watershed.

5. Objective: Continue to evaluate species status and develop fact sheets for distribution.

Strategy: Conduct a yearly assessment of the targeted species lists as part of the

CWMA agenda and add species that are considered imminent invaders of the

watershed.

6. Objective: Encourage the expansion of CWMA’s activities to neighboring watersheds

and municipalities.

Strategy: Share information, attend meetings and workshops, and consider across

border projects with other CWMAs and invasive species control interests in adjacent

jurisdictions.

Control, Management, and Restoration

Through the identification and prioritization of invasive species that will be controlled and

managed, the LEW-CWMA will continue to effectively implement invasive species management

plans. When an invasive species becomes established within an ecosystem, a strategic approach

for control is required to minimize the impacts and reduce spread. Effective control relies on a

clear understanding of the target species biology, the ecosystem in which it has established, as

well as its paths of initial introduction and potential spread. Successful control also relies on

persistent monitoring of treatment efficacy and follow up control as needed.

Approach

The steering committee of Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area will meet

two (2) times annually, one to discuss pre-season control efforts and prioritization and one to

discuss post control season summary of efforts and success. Within these meetings, the group

will also discuss potential projects that have been identified for upcoming seasons, control and

management experiences and difficulties, species distribution and spread, as well as

opportunities for education and collaboration.

Goal: Provide control efforts within priority areas to restore native species and habitats.

1. Objective: Perform reconnaissance within high priority locations determined by steering

committee.

Strategy: Map areas of infestation, develop property specific management plans, and

produce schedule for follow-up monitoring.

2. Objective: Reduce the extent and density of established invasive plants to an acceptable

density for that vegetative community.

Strategy: Based upon the site inventory and evaluation data, determine a desired site

objective including maximum coverage of invasive plants, frequency of maintenance

applications, and indicators of property succession that can be references in future

evaluations. Collaborate with partners to target and share available resources in an

effort to reduce the density of established invasive plant populations.

3. Objective: Work with private landowners to provide management recommendations,

expertise, and sources of funding to aid invasive plant control efforts.

Strategy: Prepare materials and disseminate to partners for distribution throughout the

watershed. During interactions with private landowners, evaluate their interest and

possible participation in CWMA led efforts to improve the quality of their respective

property and the watershed. Work with willing landowners to develop a

comprehensive management plan for their property and provide them with tools and

management options for each target species present.

4. Objective: Initiate, facilitate, and support small-scale research projects on invasive plant

control and management, and share results with the public.

Strategy: Working with partners and participants in the CWMA, consider options for

incorporating research questions into management activities. Look for sources of

support from partners, local industries, and various programs with a stake in the

control of invasive species.

5. Objective: Work with local governments, schools, non-profit organizations, and state

natural resource professionals to create programs to manage invasive species within

municipal parks and publicly owned lands.

Strategy: Use the Presque Isle Weed Warrior program as a framework for pilot

programs on municipal parks and publicly owned lands.

6. Objective: In designated priority areas restore native vegetation and reduce or eliminate

invasive species.

Strategy: Promote the re-establishment of native species through natural processes

(allowing the natural regeneration of native species through seed bank) or active

management processes (replanting).

Education and Outreach

Effective education and outreach programs increase awareness of the threat invasive plants pose

to natural resources, techniques used to manage these species, and the role humans play in the

dispersal and establishment of invasive weeds. Awareness also provides an important first step in

the detection of new invaders. Education includes the training of CWMA participants and

associated agency personnel, private landowners, and the general public in weed identification,

management techniques, monitoring protocols, and other skills needed for the successful control

of noxious or other invasive plants.

Approach

The Lake Erie Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area will provide information to

relevant audiences to increase the level of knowledge surrounding invasive plant identification

and management through presentations, displays, publications, webinars, and social media

outlets

Goal: Increase awareness, encourage personal action, and increase support for the CWMA led

activities through education and outreach efforts.

1. Objective: Develop and distribute materials to increase awareness and encourage

personal action to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.

Strategy: Develop and distribute species specific information at local events and

public meetings

2. Objective: Involve private landowners in the LEW-CWMA efforts and look for

opportunities to increase control efforts on public and private lands.

Strategy 1: Develop and distribute educational materials that promote stewardship

and invasive species control on privately owned lands.

Strategy 2: Increase private landowner participation in control efforts.

Strategy 3: Invite stewardship minded landowners to serve on the LEW-CWMA

steering committee.

3. Objective: Encourage the use of native and non-invasive plant materials within the

watershed.

Strategy 1: Develop documents that encourage landscaping with native non-invasive

species; documents should include information regarding threats posed by

landscaping with non-natives and a list of native alternatives.

Strategy 2: Compile a list with accompanying photos of invaders that are sold or

frequently promoted or sold within the CWMA region.

Strategy 3: Meet with representative owners and managers of leading vendors and

plant suppliers in the region to establish working relationships, promoting

landscaping with native species and reducing the distribution of invasive plants.

4. Objective: Develop materials articulating the process of native species regeneration.

Strategy: Develop materials explaining the process of invasive species management

and regeneration of native species. Materials will include strategies and photographs

from the various phases of the restoration process through the differing ecological

communities.

5. Objective: Develop educational materials regarding BMPs for preventing the spread of

invasive species through the use heavy machinery.

Strategy: Collaborate with/Contact/Connect with (options) local logging and

construction companies to assure they are aware of BMP’s that reduce the spread of

invasive species

6. Objective: Educate outdoor enthusiasts on the unintentional transport of invasive plants.

Strategy: Reduce the unintentional transport of invasive plants through the placement

of educational signs and boot brushes at trailheads and other popular recreational

areas.

7. Objective: Work with local schools to increase student interest in and knowledge of

invasive plants.

Strategy: Work with educators to incorporate information into lessons concerning

threats invasive species pose, identification, small scale control projects on school

properties, and the development of a site-specific weed management plan

(universities).

8. Objective: Increase the knowledge and expertise of key demographics in identifying

invasive species.

Strategy: Host identification and control workshops that provide targeted and relevant

information for regional stakeholders.

Inventory and Monitoring

Monitoring is defined as a survey repeated through time to determine changes in the status and

demographics of abiotic resources, species, habitats, or ecological communities. Monitoring can

play a vital role in invasive plant management and the prevention of spread. It can provide

justification for evaluating management actions, adjustments in treatment methods, and aids in

reaching invasive plant management objectives and sustainable land management goals more

effectively and efficiently.

Approach

Initial site analysis will provide a baseline inventory for each location with detailed description

of invasive plant distributions. CWMA members are encouraged to report all invasive species

locations via iMapInvasives. By designating iMapInvasives as the sole reporting platform for the

LEW-CWMA, distributional data will be updated and can be viewed by all members.

Distributional data obtained and recorded through iMapInvasives allows further prioritization of

control, management, and restoration efforts.

Monitoring is an essential component to determine the efficiency of treatment. By recording and

mapping the extent of individual invasive species infestations pre and post treatment, the LEW-

CWMA will then be able to determine the efficiency of treatment, suppression, and control.

Goal: Implement a system to inventory and monitor invasive species populations throughout the

watershed.

1. Objective: Update invasive species control plans for each site as treatment proceeds.

Strategy: Design invasive species management plans to allow updates while

maintaining a history of work and progress. Utilize iMapInvasives treatment logs for

recording details of treatment and outcome.

2. Objective: Monitor priority sites to assess potential spread of targeted invasive species.

Strategy: Based upon the succession of each site, determine optimal frequency for

reassessments

3. Objective: Monitor infestations where eradication/control measures have been

implemented to determine their effectiveness.

Strategy: After control efforts have taken place, monitor the effectiveness of each

treatment and the percent reduction in invasive cover resulting from the previous

application.

4. Objective: Identify, monitor, and document weed vectors that have the ability to increase

the spread of invasive plants throughout the watershed.

Strategy: Work with partners to identify known and possible vectors leading to the

introduction and spread of invasive species within the watershed.

5. Objective: Verify the establishment of invasive weed species.

Strategy: Soon after a new invasive species population has been documented, confirm

occurrence and record baseline infestation information and potential management

solutions.

6. Objective: Obtain and record distributional data from locations throughout the

watershed.

Strategy: Record and map all existing invasive species distributional data, creating

one resource for all groups to reference by location. Utilize iMapInvasives website to

house all distributional data obtained through site work and reports from partners

throughout the watershed.

Site Prioritization and Management Process

The Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program (PNHP) is a partnership between Western

Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC), the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural

Resources (DCNR), the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC), and the Pennsylvania Fish and

Boat Commission (PFBC). Using a standard science-based approach, PHNP collects and stores

baseline ecological information about rare plants, rare animals, unique plant communities,

significant habitats, and geological features in Pennsylvania. Not only providing information

regarding the location of rare species, significant habitats, and geological features, the inventory

includes a system of global and state ranks used to describe the relative degree of rarity for each

species and natural community.

The Erie County Natural Heritage Inventory (CNHI) report presents the known outstanding

natural features in Erie County. The CNHI provides maps of the best natural communities as

well as the known locations of animals and plant species of concern. Contained within the report

are written descriptions for each site that include the degrees of quality and rarity, site ranking on

local, state, and globally significant scale, potential threats, and recommendations for protection.

The information presented in the Erie County Natural Heritage Inventory, last updated in 2012,

will be used to guide and focus efforts of the Lake Erie Watershed - Cooperative Weed

Management Area. By identifying the unique and rare habitats within the watershed, the CHNI

has provided an extremely valuable tool enabling the LEW-CWMA to prioritize and direct

limited resources to preserving, enhancing, and restoring the ecological integrity of these sites.

Determining Sites

Initial site evaluations documented in the Inventory and Monitoring section of this plan are

essential to determining the highest priority invasive species management locations within the

Lake Erie watershed. Prioritization of these sites will be based upon the pool of existing data as

well as data collected each season regarding invasive plant communities present and the

ecological sensitivity of each site. While taking into account existing information such as the size

and severity of the infestation, site accessibility, ownership, and available resources, the steering

committee will be responsible for choosing a minimum of five sites for inventory each season

and a minimum of three target locations for management. An additional factor for site selection

is the locations proximity to other treatment areas. There is an increased benefit in building upon

successful control areas and expanding invasive treatments outward from the initial control site.

When sites have been chosen for inventory, the LEW-CWMA coordinator or other CWMA

member will be responsible for contacting the property owners and natural resource managers,

providing relevant background information regarding the negative impacts of invasive species as

well as the groups mission. The primary goal of working with these landowners and land

managers is to establish working relationships and promote stewardship long into the future.,

Members of the CWMA will work to conduct a property-wide invasive plant inventory, draft a

management plan, and work directly with the landowner or natural resource manager to

implement the plan as resources are available.

After property inventories are complete and management plans have been developed, the

steering committee will meet to discuss the findings and determine which sites are the best

candidates for management and restoration efforts. Site specific plans will outline the

management timeline and goals for each site, target species, known locations and approximate

size of each infestation, as well as the dates and level of success for each treatment.

Understanding that invasive species will be present to some degree in all locations, this review of

available information will allow partners to determine where the limited resources that are

available will have the greatest impact. When possible, restoration efforts that include the

eradication of early detection and rapid response species should be given high priority.

Understanding that management efforts in most locations will require multiple treatments over

an extended period of time, the LEW-CWMA will consider all factors including existing funding

sources and available resources such as manpower, equipment, and other assets held by involved

groups.

Throughout the management process, photographs of the site will be taken to document the

vegetative changes and succession of the natural communities. At the end of each season,

information regarding the successes as well as challenges all restoration efforts will be presented

to members of the LEW-CWMA. Successes will be categorized by the reduction in patch size or

when feasible, total eradication. The reduction in patch size can be assessed through the

collection and comparison of GPS data on an annual basis. Also, comparisons can be derived the

analyzation of aerial imagery. Although aerial imagery can often be difficult to obtain on an

annual basis, the growing popularity and usage of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), otherwise

known as drones, provides an opportunity to collect localized aerial imagery as well as other data

when needed.

Adapting and Updating the Plan

This plan is to be used as a guiding document for the Lake Erie Watershed - Cooperative Weed

Management Area through the year 2025. This plan will remain in effect for five years from the

date it has been agreed upon by all parties. This plan will be adapted and modified as the

Steering Committee sees fit within this five-year period. At the end of this five year period, the

Lake Erie Watershed - Cooperative Weed Management Area will re-assess the content within

this document and modify it as needed to address new threats and develop new strategies to

protect the biological integrity of the Lake Erie Watershed into the future.

Funding

Over the course of the last Five-Year Plan, members of the LEW-CWMA have been successful

in pursuing its implementation by securing and distributing funds from the following sources:

• US Forest Service Cooperative Forestry Assistance Program

• Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

• Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

• Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP)

• PA Watersheds Foundation

Looking Forward

In years to come, the Lake Erie watershed will inevitably continue to face issues related to

invasive species. As we work together to curb their negative effect on our native ecological

communities, we also must take into consideration factors such as climate change and native and

exotic pest introductions that have the potential to expand distribution and increase hardiness of

invasive species. Controlling existing populations of invasive species and keeping a watchful eye

for the occurrence of currently undocumented invasive species into the watershed are key

priorities for the LEW-CWMA. By working collectively with many partners and cooperators

throughout the watershed, we hope to be a catalyst for the advancement of invasive species

management while also striving to protect and enhance some of the watersheds most significant

ecological resources.

ID # :

Site Name

County

Conneaut Creek at Dicksonburg

Crawford

Conneaut Creek Slope - Springsboro South

Crawford

Mud Run Wetland

Crawford

Pont Road Wetlands

Crawford

Linesville Creek Headwaters Wetland

Crawford

East Branch Conneaut Creek Headwaters Wetland

Crawford

West Branch Conneaut Creek

Crawford, Erie

Lake Erie Coastline - Roderick

Erie

Roderick Reserve

Erie

Raccoon Creek Swamp

Erie

Conneaut Creek

Erie

East Branch Conneaut Creek

Erie

West Branch Conneaut Creek

Erie, Crawford

Elk Creek

Erie

Devil's Backbone

Erie

Falls Run

Erie

Falls Run - Shenango Creek Headwaters

Erie

Falls Run

Erie

Elk Creek - McKean

Erie

Howard Eaton Reservoir

Erie

McLane Fens

Erie

Springfield Township Vernal Pools

Erie

Crooked Creek

Erie

Presque Isle - Gull Point

Erie

Presque Isle - Peninsula

Erie

Presque Isle - Bay

Erie

Ashtabula Creek Headwaters

Erie

West Springfield - Route 20

Erie

Trout Run Pond

Erie

McLane Fens - East

Erie

Pond Road Wetlands - South

Erie

Pond Road Wetlands - North

Erie

Mercyhurst Fen

Erie

Cemetery Road Bluffs

Erie

Vineyard Swamp

Erie

[needs a name]

Erie

Northeast Lake Bluff Seeps

Erie

Six Mile Creek Gorge

Erie

Manchester Beach

Erie

Highmeyer Road Park

Erie

Site information Table

Twenty Mile Creek

Erie

Gospel Hill

Erie

Wintergreen Gorge

Erie

Sixteen Mile Creek Gorge

Erie

German Road Ponds

Erie

Asbury Woods

Erie

Asbury Woods

Erie

Twenty Mile Creek Gorge

Erie

Fairview Swamp

Erie

Twenty Mile Creek Beach

Erie

Twenty Mile Creek Beach

Erie

Twenty Mile Creek Beach

Erie

Walnut Creek

Erie

Lake Erie Community Park

Erie

Elk Creek - Mouth

Erie

Erie Bluffs - Shoreline

Erie

Erie Bluffs - Sand Dune

Erie

Elk Creek - Mouth

Erie

Erie Bluffs - Swamp

Erie