My research involves understanding the basic biology and applied ecology of two invasive aquatic plants, flowering rush and Eurasian watermilfoil.  Flowering rush and Eurasian watermilfoil are a native species from Europe and Asia that have invaded lakes throughout North America. Flowering rush is spread, largely, due to the horticultural trade with water gardens.  It invaded Detroit Lakes in the 1960s and has become a nuisance requiring extensive control efforts.  For the flowering rush research project, we are working in collaboration with Mississippi State University, at the request of the Pelican River Watershed District, to understand the phenology of flowering rush in the Detroit Lakes area and determine the best method to manage it.  We will be working from May to September, with the likely extension into the fall.

Eurasian watermilfoil is spread primarily by boaters that chop up the plant and get it trapped on their boat or trailer.  Along with a company, EnviroScience, Inc., we are investigating the biological control of Eurasian watermilfoil on Lake Pend Oreille in Idaho.  This project will involve  assessing Eurasian watermilfoil plant and invertebrate populations from mid-June through August in Idaho.