I had the opportunity to discuss my AI project with Seth Munson, a USGS scientist, and Paul Heimowitz, the Terrestrial Invasive Species Program Manager for the USGS Biological Threats & Invasive Species division. They found my project highly insightful and introduced me to various apps for tracking buffelgrass. Additionally, they helped me connect with experts in Tucson, Arizona, who are actively working to combat the spread of buffelgrass, further enhancing the impact of my project.
I volunteered with the Sonoran Weedwackers in the Tucson Mountains, assisting in the removal of buffelgrass alongside Ellie Schertz, the Invasive Species Program Coordinator for Pima County. Ellie shared that although the area had been cleared of buffelgrass two years ago, it had grown back, necessitating our efforts to ensure its removal a second time. She explained that their approach involves multiple methods, including spraying and pulling the weeds, with the latter proving to be the most effective. However, the biggest challenge lies in the seeds, which are easily dispersed by wind or during the removal process, enabling rapid regrowth. In addition, I shared my AI model with her, and she noted its potential to be a valuable tool in early detection and response for buffelgrass management and even for addressing other invasive species.