State of Alabama FINAL Coastal Impact Assistance Program (CIAP ...

SLD conservation staff will identify areas in need of treatment and will conduct spot applications of
herbicide in natural areas throughout the project period. The objective of this project is to spot treat 1000
acres of designated protected area per project year for a total of 4000 treated acres. Specifically, cogon
grass will be managed at the Splinter Hill Bog, Grand Bay Savanna, Lillian Swamp, and the Perdido River
Corridor and popcorn trees and privet will be managed in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and Weeks Bay.
Costs associated with this project include labor, herbicide, and equipment. In order to identify better
management strategies, the SLD will initiate at least one scientific study to better understand the origin of
particular nuisance species along with one plant genetic study. This study will result in a written synthesis
of the findings.
AUTHORIZED USES
o This project meets the criteria set forth in Authorized Use #1: projects and activities for the
conservation, protection, or restoration of coastal areas, including wetland.
o Justification: This project meets Authorized Use #1 because it restores habitat and natural areas
by removing invasive exotic species. Except for direct habitat loss, invasive exotic plant species
pose the greatest threat to coastal Alabama’s natural habitat and native plant species (Alabama
Invasive Plant Council website). Additionally, this project will further understanding of invasive
plant origins in order to better manage specific invasive plant populations.
o Cost Sharing: Cost sharing is not applicable to this project.
o Partnering: This project will utilize 100% CIAP funding and will be supplemented by staff and inkind
support from the State Lands Division.
State of Alabama Final Coastal Impact Assistance Program Plan
State of Alabama Tier One Project Descriptions
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