Forest Force - Defending Our Forests From Invaders

As globalization continues to connect our world together, it has unfortunately brought with it the problem of invasive plants. Global economics has benefited from this connection of foreign lands but connecting natural ecosystems in ways nature did not intend can cause significant environmental problems that even affect humans. As globalization is relatively new, so are the challenges with invasive plants as well as the research into mitigation efforts. In the short time frame in which people have started management practices against invasive plants, a few successful methods have been discovered but the problem remains difficult to deal with using current tools. The first method is mechanical removal which involves using tools to destroy invasive plants, this method is usually around only 60% effective on its own. New studies show positive results using biological and cultural control methods, these employ other organisms to fight back against invasive populations. Many of the problems with current tools have to do with the ergonomics not being designed for this specific task as well as the tools being designed for clear cutting rather than selective cutting to ensure native plants stay alive. In addition, the new biological and cultural management practices have not had their deployment methods optimized for mass use. This thesis proposes the research into best management practices (BMPs) of Ontario's most threatening invasive plants as well as a tool to improve the capabilities of workers in the field. This research will be conducted using interviews of professionals in the field as well as a study into the scholarly work focused on Ontario. A solution will be developed to optimize effectiveness of workers in the field with exploration into new management practices, targeted cutting capabilities, and improved ergonomics.