Dwarf mistletoe detection and management in Minnesota

Marcella Windmuller-Campione, Forest Resources

Background

Lodgepole pine dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium americanum) is a parasitic plant native to the western United States and Canada. This type of mistletoe can attack and kill jack pine, making it a threat to Minnesota’s forests should it reach the state. Early detection and eradication efforts are important to preventing an invasion.

Researchers are getting a head start on an A. americanum eradication plan by studying the management toolbox of Minnesota’s similar native dwarf mistletoe variety, A. pusillum. As part of this project, they will continue to examine the success rate of those current methods to eradicate and look ahead to developing new techniques for early sampling and identification of invasive mistletoe varieties.

Research questions

What are the most effective and efficient techniques for sampling and identifying invasive dwarf mistletoe, A. americanum?
How effective are eradication practices for Minnesota’s native dwarf mistletoe, A. pusillum?
What is Minnesota’s plan for detecting and managing invasive dwarf mistletoe as early as possible?

Practical implications

This research will help Minnesota land managers be ready to defend their pines against a new invasive threat as soon as it happens. It will also assess the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of the state’s current dwarf mistletoe management practices for future improvement.