Invasive Species Control Techniques

With more than fifteen years of hands-on experience Allied Biological is the leader in providing comprehensive management services for control of invasive wetland plants. We pioneered the methodology used to apply herbicides via ground equipment to large wetland areas. Using a variety of amphibious vehicles, we are able to spray large tracts of phragmites and other wetland plants while avoiding the drift issues that accompany aerial applications. With platforms mounted on the vehicles, herbicides can be applied just above the top of the plants, and hand-directed spray can be used when desirable plants and target plants are interspersed.

In more sensitive areas, herbicides can be applied by backpack sprayer, mechanical wicking device or hand-wicking. Our technical staff is experienced in the identification and protection of desirable plants during a herbicide application, and regularly performs invasive plant control work in Wildlife Refuges, Parks and Preserves.

Allied Biological, Inc. incorporates cutting and mulching of invasive species into many of its wetland restoration projects. Using a low ground pressure, rubber-tracked vehicle with a specialized cutting attachment, we mow large stands of dead Phragmites canes. Cutting this invasive species, in conjunction with herbicide treatment, is generally more effective in restoring wetlands than use of either method alone. Such mechanical removal of the vegetation also expedites the reestablishment of native plants.