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Invasive Trees of the Verde River Greenway

Among the invasive plants along the Verde River, four are seen as the biggest threat to riparian native plants. The Tamarisk (salt cedar), Alanthus Altissimus (tree of heaven), Arundo Donax (giant reed) and the Russian Olive have incredible abilities to outcompete Fremont Cottonwoods, Gooding Willows, and other dominant native species. They contribute very little in the way of quality habitat while using a tremendous amount of precious river water. This makes their removal an urgent need in the quest for a healthy river. Unlike other rivers such as the upper San Juan (crowded with Russian Olives), or the Little Colorado (completely dominated by Tamarisks), the Verde still has a healthy mix of vegetation. If action to retain a healthy ecosystem is done soon, there will be little need to revegetate areas where invasive removal has taken place.

Everyone who cares about the Verde can make a difference:

• Demonstration projects on invasive removal are ongoing. No experience is necessary. Contact friendsvrg@gmail.com
• GPS mapping of invasive plants is ongoing. These maps will document the density and location of the pest species as well as our progress on their removal. No experience is necessary. Contact Selena at spao@TNC.org for more information.
• Property owners who wish to remove invasive plants from riparian property, can contact Steve Estes at stevenrestes@gmail.com or the NRCD at verdenrcd@yahoo.com
• Preserve the Verde’s water by finding ways to conserve water usage at your home or business.
• Stay informed about all upcoming local environmental events by watching our calendar.