We need your help

Our observations are based on few native clones and wee need to confirm these morphological differences by examining different genotypes in the field and by growing them under standardized conditions in a common garden. We are currently developing a standardized data record sheet and will post this form on this page shortly. We are unable to visit sites across North America ourselves and depend on your help to refine our ability to use easily visible field characteristics to identify native and introduced genotypes. We are particularly interested in:

1.   Locations of native genotypes across North America. It appears that most native populations in the East have vanished or have been overrun by introduced genotypes. For genotype-specific management it will be important to record the presence of native genotypes.

2.   Information about presence/absence of field characteristics summarized in Table 1 or any other additional traits that may help discriminate among native and introduced genotypes

3.   Seed collections from native and introduced genotypes from as many different regions as possible. This will allow us to establish germination trials to better understand the differences in competitive ability of native and introduced clones.

4.   Rhizome collections from as many native and introduced genotypes as possible. We need approximately 1-2 pounds of rhizome material to establish a common garden.

5.   Stem collections (in the dormant season) to assess differences in insect herbivores attacking native and introduced genotypes. We have preliminary evidence from stands in New York that the insect communities in introduced and native genotypes differ significantly.

We are currently developing standardized sampling protocols. These protocols will be posted on this site shortly and we hope that many of you will be able to contribute to this important work. For immediate questions, to obtain instructions for collections or advice please contact bb22@cornell.edu.

The work outlined above is a collaboration of the Biological Control of Non-Indigenous Plant Species Program at Cornell University, Kristin Saltonstall at Yale University, and the University of Rhode Island.