Today is Friday, May 3, 2024
Early Detection Rapid Response
The best solution to a problem is to prevent the problem from manifesting in the first place! Some non-native invasive weeds have yet to entrench themselves in Fairfax County but devastated other parts of the U.S. where they already invaded. Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) volunteers inspect local parks and GPS-document any of the following target species before the weeds spread:
| Scientific Name | Common Name |
| Cynanchum nigrum (Vincetoxicum nigrum) | Black Swallow-Wort |
| Heracleum mantegazzianum | Giant Hogweed |
| Imperata cyindrica | Cogongrass |
| Lamiastrum galeobdolon | Yellow Archangel |
| Mahonia bealei | Leatherleaf Mahonia |
| Murdannia keisak | Marsh Dayflower or Wart Removing Herb |
| Oenanthe javanica | Java Dropwart |
| Oplismenus hirtellus | Wavyleaf Basketgrass |
| Pueraria lobata | Kudzu |
| Viburnum dilatatum | Linden Viburnum |
Currently known weed populations are either small or non-existent in Fairfax County. Patrollers searching for these emerging weed species must have basic plant identification knowledge; details will be provided at each patrol. Those wishing to lead EDRR surveys must attend an informational two hour training session. More information about this program is here: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/invasive-management-area/early-detection
If you would like to volunteer for the EDRR efforts at and around Royal Lake Park, click here and let us know.
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