Restoring the Wild: Combatting Invasive Species in the Shadow of the Tetons
In the heart of the American West, the jagged peaks of the Grand Tetons serve as a reminder of nature’s raw power and beauty. However, beneath the breathtaking vistas, a quiet battle is being waged. For years, our organization has been a staple of the summer conservation season in Grand Teton National Park, deploying expert crews to protect this iconic landscape from one of its most persistent threats: invasive plant species.
The Mission: Protecting Biodiversity
Invasive plants are more than just “weeds” out of place; they are biological invaders that reshape the environment. Species like Yellow Sweetclover, Musk Thistle, Houndstounge, and Knapweed are aggressive competitors. Left unchecked, they create dense monocultures – vast stretches of a single plant species that provide little to no value to the local wildlife.
These invaders outcompete the native flora that elk, bison, and pollinators rely on for survival. Many of these species disturb soil stability, increasing erosion and even elevating the risk of high-intensity wildfires. ACE’s invasive species removal and management work disrupts these cycles and clear the path for a richer, more resilient biodiversity.
Precision and Expertise in the Field
ACE crews utilize a multi-faceted approach to land management. ACE employs strategic herbicide applications to target established infestations with precision. This is balanced with labor-intensive hand-pulling in sensitive areas ensures minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Our long-term presence in the park has allowed us to develop an intimate understanding of the terrain and the specific phenology of these “invaders,” ensuring our treatments are as effective as possible.
Closing the Loop: Seed Collection and Fire Recovery
Restoration does not end with removal. To ensure the long-term health of the Grand Tetons, our crews pivot to seed collection. By gathering native seeds from the local area, we provide the park with the biological resources needed to revegetate sites affected by wildfires. This ensures that when the earth is disturbed by fire, it is the native grasses and wildflowers that return to claim the soil, not the invasives.
We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the ecological health of Grand Teton National Park and helping to ensure the landscape remains wild, diverse, and resilient for generations to come. Thank you to our partners for trusting us with the stewardship of this iconic American treasure.