Invasive Species Control Projects by State

Kansas
Eastern red cedar trees have invaded many parts of the Kansas prairie threatening wildlife habitat and grazing lands. Research has shown that as little as one tree per acre invading into native prairie can have a negative affect on the use of that acre by grassland nesting birds. It has also been shown that prairie chickens have an innate avoidance of structures that rise above the grasslands, such as trees, utility poles, or buildings. In addition, one acre of cedar trees can rob as much as 55,000 gallons of water per year from surrounding grasslands and streams. Trees also produce a shading effect and, in the case of eastern red cedar, can smother the native grasses. Combined with negative effects on the water cycle, the amount of forage available to a livestock producer is greatly reduced. This, in turn, directly affects a producer’s bottom line as well as the local economy.

Cedar tree invasion in south-central Kansas – USFWS Photo.

To remove the cedar trees, first they have to be clipped or cut. If the terrain is relatively flat, a mechanical tree cutter is used, which saves a lot of time. In steep terrain, the trees must be removed with a chain saw.

Prescribed fire is a necessary tool if tree invasion is to be kept in check. The cedar trees must be burned or new shoots will germinate and actually exacerbate, rather than improve, the situation.

This tree was clipped but not burned. Notice the new saplings coming in around the clipped tree. Cutting or clipping invasive cedar trees will not prevent another invasion unless fire can be used as a follow up management tool.

As a final measure to ensure the cedar trees don't return, a grazing management plan is recommended. A grazing management plan, complete with recommended stocking rates and rotation dates, helps to control the cedar tree invasion. In addition, the residual grass cover provides nesting and wintering habitat for lesser prairie-chickens.