Too Many Blackberries? How to Manage Them in Native Grasslands

How do you manage blackberries in a native grassland — and should you try to control them at all?

In this video, we’re joined by Steve Clubine, who brings over 40 years of hands-on experience managing native grasslands. We’re standing on Steve’s own property as we talk through a real-world question many landowners face: blackberries are great for wildlife (and berry picking), but what happens when they start taking over?

Steve shares what he’s learned from decades of management — the good, the bad, and the tradeoffs.

We talk about:

• The wildlife value of blackberries, including cover and nesting habitat
• Why letting them go unchecked can reduce grazable acres and forage production
• How mowing can cause unintended wildlife impacts
• How selective spot spraying can help maintain balance without wiping everything out
• Thoughtful, minimal herbicide use and why reading the label matters

This is an honest, practical conversation about stewardship — not eliminating blackberries, but managing them in a way that works for your land, your livestock, and your wildlife goals.

CHECK OUT OUR BLOG ARTICLE ON FIRST YEAR WEED CONTROL

CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO ABOUT HOW TO CONTROL CALLERY PEAR