Dr. Alan B. Thum Invasives Removal Project history and purpose
Problem description
Target weed photo gallery
Parties involved.
Opportunities for public participation
Project contacts
 External links on invasives.


Dr. Alan B. Thum Invasives Removal Project History

The Dr. Alan Thum Invasives Removal Project, funded by a State of California Prop 13 grant, is a coordinated effort to remove the predominant species of invasive plants in the most heavily infested streams and watersheds of the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit (CHU). The CHU covers approximately 210 square miles, extending from Lake Wohlford in the east to the ocean in the west, and from Vista and Oceanside in the north to Solana Beach, Escondido, and Rancho Santa Fe to the south. The goals of the Carlsbad Watershed Management Plan published in late 2002 established the need to implement a comprehensive Exotic Species Removal Program to support the natural functions and services of the watershed. In addition to invasive removal, the project restores native vegetation in these watersheds as an essential step in reestablishing the hydrologic and ecological functions of these riparian and coastal wetland habitats.

This project proposes a major effort to remove the predominant species of invasive plants and to restore native vegetation in these watersheds as an essential step in reestablishing the hydrologic and ecological functions of these riparian and coastal wetland habitats.

Problem Description

Invasive, non-native plants are destroying the ability of local watersheds to properly function. Many of these species were introduced to California for use as horticultural, building or erosion control solutions. Because they are foreign to this region of the world, their lack of natural competitors allows them to grow vigorously and propagate in a wide range of conditions. In addition, invasive plants can be highly destructive by exacerbating the risk of fire and flood, impacting water quality and displacing wildlife.

Target weed photo gallery

Common name Scientific name
wattle (Acacia sp.)
tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
giant reed (Arundo donax)
pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana)
ivy (Delairea odorata, Hedera helix)
gum tree (Eucalyptus sp.)
wild fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
iceplant (Macrocarpus edulis)
Ngaio tree (Myoporum laetum)
fountain grass (Pennisetum sp.)
Canary Island palm (Phoenix canariensis)
castor bean (Ricinus comunis)
Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius)
salt cedar (Tamarix sp.)
Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia robusta)

 

Parties involved

Since 2004, San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy, a 501(c)3 organization and CWN founding partner, has administered a regional invasive species control program on behalf of Carlsbad Watershed Network(CWN). This project has the support, permits or exemptions from the following municipalities and agencies.

Opportunities for public participation

  1. Use your smartphone to help restore habitat for wildlife. Download the What's Invasive App to your iPhone or Android and select the San Diego County Park to begin mapping invasive plants. CWN biologists use your sightings to direct treatment crews throughout the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit. 
  2. Allow CWN to access your property to control invasive plants by signing a right of entry agreement to the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy (SELC). Learn more at the SELC Invasive Plant Control website. Right of Entry Agreement
  3. Improve the habitat quality of your own backyard. Learn more about harmful exotics and landscaping alternatives by reading the brochure “Don’t Plant a Pest”.
  4. Join the thrill of hands-on conservation by volunteering at your local conservation organization. Several CWN member organizations offer opportunities to meet your neighbors while helping to improve native habitats. SELC Invasive Plant Control website Visit member webpages to register for an event.Member Webpages
  5. Our funding is dependent on state budgets, which are often variable. Your direct support of the Alan B. Thum Watershed Protection Fund allows us to continue this works despite difficult economic conditions. Alan B. Thum Watershed Protection Fund
  6. Learning opportunities
    • Research the more than 4,000 species native to California at the Calflora Website Calflora Website
    • Visit the California Invasive Plant Council website to learn about the risks of invasive weeds in California.
    • Geographic Information Systems users can download the shapefile of invasive species mapped within the CHU.

Project contacts

Project Director: David Varner 760-436-3944 x710

Outreach/Education: Joel Kramer 760-436-3944 x709

Project Scientist: Isabelle Kay 858-229-4677