Services

Invasive Trees and Shrubs

Without focused management, Common and Glossy Buckthorn and non-native Honeysuckle can take over a landscape and decimate ecosystem health and biodiversity. Long term, multi-year strategies are essential for successful control of these and other invasive tree and shrub species.

I offer herbicide free and/or very low dose chemical treatment plans for removal and reduction of these pernicious invaders.

Asiatic Bittersweet and Vines

Unless you have an ongoing management strategy, Asiatic Bittersweet can - and will - damage and kill trees, overrun woodlots, smother edge property, and take over meadows. Early detection and control are critical, but even serious infestations can be mitigated with committed management and the right combination of control methods.

Identify, Plan, and Control

It's an unfortunate reality, but invasive plants are here to stay; eradication is possible in only very limited and specific circumstances. The reality is we have to strategically identify, create a plan for, and control the impact of non-natives in order to allow native species to recover. Given a chance, the native tress, shrubs, and plants that enrich the places we live can and will return and thrive.

Chemical Free

Under the right circumstances, and with the right plan and a long term commitment, chemical free control can be an effective alternative to herbicides. Combined with a landscape rehabilitation plan, which might be as simple as allowing native early succession, herbicide free invasive management can be a pathway to successful restoration projects.

Herbicides

Balanced Ecological Systems offers very low dose herbicide services, by request or as a component of integrated pest management. It is recommended that other strategies be considered before choosing to use herbicides, and the decision must always place the well-being of the ecosystem first. Only the least toxic herbicides with the least potential for harm will be considered for use. Any questions or concerns regarding herbicide use can be addressed in the initial consultation.

Landscape Resoration

As a certified practitioner in Ecological Restoration (University of Minnesota, 2022), the principles of sustainable, ecologically sound landscape management inform BES planning and action on every level. I specialize in enabling natural succession of native plant communities using invasive removal and targeted assistance. Call or email for a free consultation.