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Colorado Researchers Tackle Invasive Russian Thistle Crisis

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Russian thistle is an invasive species in Colorado that can reduce yields by more than 50%.
Introduced in late 1800s, it thrives in harsh conditions and disperses seeds by wind.
Tumbleweeds can grow over four feet in diameter and overwhelm roads.
Colorado State University researchers study its resilience to improve crops, while attempts to use it as animal feed are limited and the tumbleweed is a cultural symbol.

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Story summary

Russian thistle is an invasive species in Colorado that can reduce yields by more than 50%.
Introduced in late 1800s, it thrives in harsh conditions and disperses seeds by wind.
Tumbleweeds can grow over four feet in diameter and overwhelm roads.
Colorado State University researchers study its resilience to improve crops, while attempts to use it as animal feed are limited and the tumbleweed is a cultural symbol.