Observation to Action: How geospatial data is used for the tracking and management of Invasive Phragmites in Minnesota

Abstract

This paper discusses the importance of monitoring and managing invasive species, particularly Phragmites australis, in the Great Lakes region of Minnesota. Invasive species can negatively impact the local environment, including water quality and native flora/fauna communities, which can, in turn, affect property values and the State's economy, which heavily relies on recreational use of water resources. Management efforts to control invasive species rely on cooperation between governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the public. Tracking the spread of invasive species is vital to their control, and data provided by citizen scientists, landowners, and lake associations is critical to the accuracy of predictive computer models. GIS and other mapping programs can increase success rates while reducing costs of management by using geospatial data. Successful management programs involve early detection and rapid response protocols and monitoring of treated areas to ensure control of the invasive species is achieved. It is important to have infrastructure in place for reporting new populations that both researchers and the public can use to ensure the most accurate data is being used to create ED/RR programs.