A true IVM program takes a holistic view of the current plant or weed species mix, then deploys the most appropriate control methods for the immediate objective – all with the larger goal of establishing, improving and maintaining habitat critical to pollinators and other wildlife. So how exactly can IVM benefit you and the plant and animal species you want to protect?
First, while mowing can easily damage desirable vegetation, a well-planned IVM program uses the selectivity of a herbicide, tank mix or application method to control specific undesirable species, under specific conditions, and at a specific growth stage, preserving the native vegetation that serves as critical pollinator habitat. Second, IVM helps those native plants form a low canopy that can “shade out” undesirable or non-native seedlings. Third, IVM can dramatically reduce overall vegetation management costs and labor requirements, potentially allowing those resources to be redeployed to other habitat-enhancement efforts.
That said, managing roadsides or rights-of-way for pollinator habitat can be complicated. That’s why you need a partner who can not only provide selective herbicides that will allow native vegetation to flourish, but who has the expertise to help guide you along the way.
As a supporter of State Game Lands 33 and other research projects devoted to evaluating best practices in vegetation management, Corteva Agriscience is committed to helping vegetation managers better understand and more effectively implement IVM practices on the lands they steward.
To learn more about how an IVM program can help you control roadside vegetation and enhance critical native habitat, or to connect with your local Corteva vegetation management specialist, visit HabitatWithHerbicides.com.
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