A thirsty invasive grass invades arid regions of the U.S.

Giant reed, Arundo donax, is a large, fast-growing invasive grass that has invaded at least 100,000 acres of "riparian" habitat in the southwestern and southeastern U.S. and is present as far north as Ohio and Washington State.

In arid drought-prone areas, the invasive grass consumes enough water every year to cover over 75,000 football fields to a depth of 1 foot. Arundo also blocks flood control channels, hinders recreational water use, fuels wildfires, and displaces native plants and animals.

Watch the video to learn how Agricultural Research Service (ARS) researchers are using biocontrol (insects) to damage and reduce the presence of this invasive plant. Click here to learn more about the USDA-ARS.