In 2025, our plant research team collected root, shoot, flower, and fruit samples from twinberry (Lonicera involucrata) and fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) plants, as well as soil, from 10 plots in each of the 6 cutblocks, both before and after treatment with either glyphosate-based herbicide or manual brushing (cutting of vegetation).  These samples will be analyzed for glyphosate content and plant microbiome.  Some of these samples will be studied by Mahnaz Gooya, as part of her PhD work under the supervision of Dr. Lisa Wood.

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A thorough assessment of plant species composition was also completed, and soil temperature & moisture readings and samples were also taken from each plot. This information will form a foundation for describing the ecosystem in each cutblock, to be used in all the GROW research projects.