Canadian Forest Service links

Biocontrol method for reedgrass

With the following technology, we are looking for partnerships, collaborations and/or licencees to further their development or application.

Description

This method, based on the discovery of microbes that can suppress the growth of marsh reedgrass (Calamagrostis canadensis) is available for commercialization. The method involves the inundative use of endemic (native) pathogens to suppress reedgrass in reforestation areas, allowing conifers to reach the "free-to-grow" stage by reducing competition and snow press caused by the grass.

Main Use

• Regeneration of boreal forests.
• Grass control along irrigation canals, roadsides, etc.
• Spin-off technology applicable to control of other grass weeds.
• Spin-off technology applicable to straw degradation/removal.

Main Advantage

• Can be used in situations where chemical herbicides are not desired.
• Environmentally safe.
• Effective in high-straw areas where chemicals perform poorly.
• Does not injure the tree crop, as herbicides sometimes do.

Technology Transfer Strategy

The "Know-How" for this technology is availabe. Licensing is available internationally.

Patent Information

• USA 5,472,690
• Canadian patent is pending

Supplementary Information

Not applicable.

Contacts

Business Aspects:

Joseph N. Anawati, P. Eng.
Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada
580 Booth Street, 7th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario, CANADA, K1A 0E4
Telephone: (613) 947-8996 Facsimile: (613) 947-9090 

Technical Aspects:

Dr. Richard S. Winder
Pacific Forestry Centre
Canadian Forest Service, Natural Resources Canada
506 West Burnside Road
Victoria, BC, CANADA V8Z 1M5
Telephone: (250) 363-0773 Facsimile: (250) 363-0775