Jech’s Interim Study Evaluates Invasion of Woody Species on State-Owned Properties

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Darcy Jech, R-Kingfisher, held an interim study in the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee on Monday to evaluate the management of invasive woody species on state-owned properties. The study also explored opportunities for collaboration among state agencies, private landowners, fire departments, municipalities, and other stakeholders to further management and eradication efforts.

“As the largest property owner in Oklahoma, the state must be responsible stewards of our lands, which includes assisting with the management and removal of invasive woody species,” Jech said. “Eastern red cedars and other woody species exacerbate the spread of wildfires, deplete water resources, worsen drought conditions, and damage wildlife habitats and grazing lands. Furthermore, these species affect the state’s economy by lowering property values and contributing to increased costs associated with fighting and recovering from wildfires.”

Jech added that the study follows the implementation of the Terry Peach North Canadian Watershed Restoration Act, a pilot program to manage and eradicate woody species in the North Canadian Watershed. The act, approved by the Legislature in 2023, included a $3.3 million investment to initiate the cost-share program. Jech said that while data is not yet available from the program, the efforts thus far have been successful, and areas around the North Canadian Watershed have seen their water sources replenished.

Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, joined Jech in hosting the study.

“Invasive species drain an enormous amount of water from our soil as well as other nutrients, and they pose a great fire danger that threatens life and property. Today’s study focused on ways to best address this problem through eradication and conservation efforts as well as through legislation that will help us be better stewards of our resources going forward,” Newton said.

Representatives from the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Department of Agriculture Food and Forestry, Department of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, and the Commissioners of the Land Office each shared their agencies’ contributions to eradicating, managing, and researching invasive woody species during the study.

Sixth-generation rancher Seth Coffey also provided insight into managing woody species on his family ranch in southern Oklahoma. He discussed the effectiveness of prescribed burns and highlighted his collaborative efforts with various agencies to address wildfires and implement sustainable management practices for woody species.

The full study can be viewed here.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Darcy Jech at 405-521-5545, or email Darcy.Jech@oksenate.gov