Locoweed: A Poisonous Plant Threatening Cattle
Introduction
Locoweed is a dangerous plant that can cause serious health problems and even death in cattle. It’s a native weed found in the southwestern United States, and there are several varieties, some more toxic than others. Ranchers need to be aware of how to identify locoweed and control its spread.
What is Locoweed?
Locoweed is a type of plant that’s also known as milk vetch. There are over 300 species of locoweed, but not all of them are poisonous. Cattle that eat locoweed may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Stumbling or staggering
- Glazed or dull eyes
- Running in circles
- Drooling
- Weight loss
- Spontaneous abortions
- Low fertility rates
- Weakness
- Increased susceptibility to disease
Identifying Locoweed
Locoweed is a low-growing plant that spreads in clumps. It has pinnate leaves that end in smaller leaflets. The plant produces legume pods and pea-like flowers. Locoweed is most toxic when it’s young. By the end of summer, it turns brown and starts to die back. The toxin is less potent in older plants.
How to Control Locoweed
Controlling locoweed can be challenging, but it’s important to start when the plants are young. Foliar sprays, which are applied to the leaves and then absorbed by the roots, are an effective way to control locoweed. A mixture of picloram and 2,4D is commonly used for this purpose.
Recently, a species of weevil has been discovered that can eat the roots of locoweed plants and kill them. Only a few weevils are needed to take out a single plant, but attracting these insects can be difficult. However, they may eventually become a valuable tool in the biological control of locoweed.
Long-term Strategies for Locoweed Management
In addition to immediate control measures, there are long-term strategies that can help reduce the spread of locoweed:
- Grazing Management: Avoiding overgrazing can help prevent locoweed from establishing itself.
- Weed Prevention: Controlling other weeds in pastures can reduce competition and make it easier for desirable plants to thrive.
- Native Plant Restoration: Planting native grasses and wildflowers can help crowd out locoweed and improve overall pasture health.
- Education: Ranchers and landowners need to be aware of the dangers of locoweed and how to identify and control it.
Conclusion
Locoweed is a serious threat to cattle health and productivity. By understanding how to identify, control, and manage locoweed, ranchers can protect their herds and ensure the long-term health of their pastures.
