The RIVR-Lab is dedicated to understanding the impacts of non-native species in riparian and aquatic ecosystems,
developing methods for their management, and restoring native biodiversity and ecosystem function in western riparian habitats.
A key focus in our research is biological control, using introduced specialist herbivores as well as taking advantage of, or
augmenting, currently established herbivores to suppress environmental weeds. We feel it is essential to take a multi-species, ecologically-based approach to sustainable weed management and environmental restoration, using all appropriate tools in
carrying out Integrated Ecosystem Pest Management (IEPM).

Arundo donax clump on the Santa Clara River floodplain, Santa Paula, CA (right).  Native plants killed by Tarmarix fueled fire in the Mojave River, CA (left).

Santa Clara River, Ventura Co. - one of our primary field sites. Arundo has formed extensive monocultural stands along the river floodplain after a fire burned through the river system in 2004.


Tamarix-fueled burn area along the Colorado River in Palo Verde, CA.   Tamarix readily resprouts after fire (left).

© 2007 Tom Dudley