LOWER
PLATTE
WEED MANAGEMENT AREA
"Working together
to control and/or contain the spread of noxious
and invasive plants in the Lower Platte River drainage."
INVOLVED PLANTS
The following plants are, currently, being targeted by the LPWMA as being the most troublesome and
have the greatest impact on the biodiversity of the Lower Platte River basin. These plants are not native to this country
and have no natural enemies to keep them in check. Because of this, they become very aggressive and crowd out the
beneficial, native plants in the areas they infest, forming a monoculture in that area. These plants are prolific seed producers,
have highly viable seeds, and/or extensive root systems to help them survive drastic climate changes, including drought.
Purple Loosestrife
Nebraska Noxious Weed since January 1, 2001
A very agressive perennial that is infesting lakes, rivers, creeks, ponds, marshes,
and other wetlands across Nebraska. This plant is, currently, the primary target
of the LPWMA, due to its rapid spread along the Platte river system and its
threat against beneficial plants necessary for wildlife habitat and food sources.
Saltcedar (Tamarisk)
Nebraska Noxious Weed beginning January 1, 2005
Nebraska's newest named noxious weed is beginning to find its way into the
wetlands of Southwest and Central Nebraska. It can be found along the Platte River,
including areas in Eastern Nebraska (the mouth of the Platte). This perennial tree, or shrub,
spreads with highly viable seeds and plant parts, quickly forming a monoculture in the
infested area. Mature plants can absorb up to 200 gallons of water per day, giving it
the ability to dry up creeks and small lakes
Common Reed (Phragmites)
Listed on the NNWAC Watch List since 2002
This non-native plant is similar to a native common reed, but is rapidly spreading
in waterways and lakes across Nebraska. This tall grass-like plant can grow up to 20 feet
tall and form thick, dense stands making many areas inaccessible. This plant quickly forms
a monoculture by pushing out native vegetation.
Because the LPWMA is set up to be an Early Detection - Rapid Response Management Areas
as other troublesome, invasive plants will be dealt with as they are found. These weeds will be
added to this list as needed. Some other plants that have been listed as noxious in other States that have
found their way into Nebraska can be found at the Nebraska Weed Control Web Site:
If you have questions about the invasive plants in your County of the LPWMA, please the information on
the Contact Page. If you would like to have more information about noxious weed control in Nebraska, please
visit the Nebraska Weed Control Association website (www.neweed.org).