A Viewer Reported Me to the Texas Department for Agriculture

[@dustupstexas]

Thanks to Equip Foods for sponsoring today’s video! Head to my link at equipfoods.com/dustups and use my promo code DUSTUPS to get 20% off your first order, or combine this offer with a subscription and get 35% off your first subscription.

[@lb3530]

Desert Lavender is a drought-tolerant native plant might be worth seeing if random things like this can /are allowed to grow there?

[@rigoffshore2741]

Vetiver is a clumping plant, meaning new growth will emerge from the soil around the parent plant. Vetiver can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a-11b. Find your local hardiness zone here. Vetiver can be propagated by division into new individual plants.

[@rigoffshore2741]

Yes, sunn hemp can be grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 8-13, including zone 8a, which includes parts of the Southern United States and Pacific Northwest. Sunn hemp is a tropical plant that can be cultivated in temperate zones, but it's not winter hardy and is best grown as a summer annual in most of the United States

[@rigoffshore2741]

Have you tried these two sun hemp and vetevir?

[@joneblaze82]

Try some kiawae its desert tree and good for food

[@OakKnobFarm]

I think removing a banned species is important. But the viewer should have contacted you directly

[@christopherd.winnan8701]

Did you see them do a Dept of HS flyby, just to make sure he was in compliance?

[@williampatrickfurey]

Pangaea: nothing's actually invasive, just fast growing free commodities (without the commodities market ruling over us, forex, etc.), which means free everything. Also, if they stop making people perpetually pay for energy and undrinkable "cleansed" water, and take the dams back to grade/a gentle slope, then the dams wouldn't stop ocean compound migrations such as natural taurine from having it's profound effects on plants. Also, native grasses, I mean they couldn't tell us much about the actual Natives from "America", let alone the regional growth because they killed species which would've migrated these things (I even have a theory of paenibacilli and cattle passes aiding stone fruit germination, among many more which aren't on this 31 year old Internet yet); it's like birds spreading grain when making nests, which reminds me, people could even KZbin those flamingos in Utah.

[@orangeswell1469]

100% - I suspect someone is jealous that Shaun has committed to bringing the impossible into reality and is making real progress.

[@zarroth]

@@williampatrickfurey incorrect. invasive species are labelled such because they out-compete native species easily. Invasive species, combined with putting out fires, is why our national forests are in trouble. I get it, you don't trust the gov, neither do I, but don't become a fool over it. Some of these things are legit, and a little bit of digging would teach you why...which you are too lazy to do clearly. Yes, I agree they should have contacted him directly and let him handle it before calling in "officials" though.

[@lionscircle4700]

I replied when Shuan planted Orundo donax and told him that the species is invasive and a real threat to damage his desert ecosystem. Shaun never replied even though my comment had something like 100 thumbs up. He doesn't know what he is doing. I recommended then and continue to believe he needs to bring in permaculturist will desert restoration experience. Bill Mollison and Dan Holmgren wrote the book on this 40 years ago and Shaun remain oblivious to their accomplishments. I sound critical but really it's his time and energy he is wasting. I just want to see him arrive at his vision.

[@BrillPappin]

You should start taking pictures every once in a while from a few specific vantage points. When you have a desert forest flourishing, you can create a sort of timelapse video of it growing and spreading.

[@dirkboch128]

Nothing is florishing there, it's all bs.

[@aliciadupuy9228]

I second this

[@Jeffrobodine23]

It's called video 😅 just kidding I think there's enough screenshots to do that.

[@marktaylor2645]

If you ever have to rename the channel, “I wish I’d done this earlier” is probably a good candidate.

[@RoyalDudeness]

That's why I watch this channel. It's kind of funny to watch somebody waste his time

[@jhuizinga1]

ADHD is a bitch sometimes.

[@pumapixelpixelpuma7219]

​@@RoyalDudeness "The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming. -Roosevelt"

[@justmyself1000]

99% of success...is failure. Ask ANY successful person this.

[@JordanBeagle]

@@RoyalDudeness Could phrase that anymore pretentiously, he's learn as he goes and putting out there, don't see you doing jack shit

[@Julian_Wang-pai]

Look at the positives: the error was caught early (before the e-grass had established) and you got the list of TDA proscribed species.

[@mikestaff3042]

Dude it was all dead anyway . Almost nothing grows there

[@runed0s86]

​@@mikestaff3042 if you watched the video, you would know that it was not dead lol

[@Ap_twsh]

You do realize planting a grass is not as damaging as the clothes you’re wearing and how it got manufactured right? The phone you’re using and the car you drive. 🤣🤣

[@NeistadtFamily]

Glad you took it out regardless of how the Department found out about it

[@Vezmerize]

Glad they were easy to take out. Bummer that someone didn't tell you it was illegal before calling the authorities.

[@jonhelmer8591]

Yeah, why couldn't they have called?

[@malahammer]

@@jonhelmer8591 it's what karens do!

[@roberts663]

Its not hard to find on the texas banned plant list. A lot of people told him, he just didnt care and did it anyways and now is being all arrogant about it.

[@justiceO8149]

I'm fully on it - live in an area overtaken by other country's plants and they have zero predators and smoke the local plants. Easy fix to have a banned species list. We have them in my country, council area by council area

[@oknevals]

@@roberts663 What do you do in your life?

[@gammayin3245]

I am so thankful for all the people who are doing their best to regenerate natural ecosystems that have been destroyed. That definitely includes everyone who works at Dustups Ranch. Sending my good thoughts and wishes for your success!

[@martinsimonton]

I'm definitely not the one that reported you but I did comment at the time you should not plant Arundo. I think I did suggest ocotillo. Sorry for your troubles. Ocotillo is way easier, though. It will not need any water at all.

[@dspine6]

You did the right way!

[@TG22222]

I remember your comment about Ocotillo. I'm sure he would've seen it also.

[@aroukspondaik4455]

Do you understand what a desert means?ANY plant that can grow in a desert is a suitable one,not an "invasive" one!You protect a...desert?So let me undestand who are you that will decide what plant a specific soil will grow?Better start thinking about ways of greening the desert and stop talking about plant species...nature will decide what plants will keep!As humans we have the obligation of greening any desert with adding millions and millions of different plants...and nature will decide what biodiversity will be created.Its not a matter of our personal preferance.Nature just needs from us, all kind of plants and water and then she knows better than you, what she will keep and what not.

[@smhdpt12]

@@aroukspondaik4455 Sounds like you have a PhD in desert fauna and know what invasive species may do to an ecosystem. Oh wait, you don't? Never mind.

[@knoll9812]

Except that he cannot plant millions of plants. Better he hides close to optimum plants for his farm. ​@@aroukspondaik4455

[@B3ASTM0D3.]

Shaun, you are a good man. Investing time and money in this endeavor is high risk, high reward. I don’t blame you for planting a species banned in the state of Texas. Now ya know. 😂 wish the viewer would have just contacted you directly, instead of calling the government in. Keep doing what your doing. Kudos to you.

[@hailus7714]

I have a suggestion that might work. Plant the grass and other native seeds in some kind of container with nice soil and compost mix, water them and let them grow for 2 to 3 weeks, once they are big enough, transplant them in the fenced growing area, instead of expecting them to germinate in the harsh desert soil environment. A little bit of more care at the beginning in a nice soil and compost mix might give them better chance for more of the seeds to grow.

[@MrBobwatman]

A piping bag, large volume syringe, or something like a calking gun might make for more convenient dispensing of your seed paste. That is, as long as your seeds are small like grass seed.

[@JP_N_AZ]

Or go to a low viscosity mixture and build a hydro seeding setup

[@rjstewart]

Ooooh. I like the calking gun idea. Build something on wheels with a large container and extruder. Fill it will seed-media mix and pull it along as it pushes out a long line of it onto the ground. Put a trencher ahead of the nozzle and a filler behind and you’ve got product!

[@estebancorral5151]

Caulking!!!!!

[@MrBobwatman]

@@estebancorral5151 Ah, perhaps so. Who's to say, really?

[@sahilmangarolia4930]

Although there wasn’t a lot of rain, it was so cool finally being able to see drops falling on video. Also, can’t wait to see the grasses turning the terrace even greener. I’m so excited for the next updates!

[@karenwood6815]

I actually got excited seeing the rain 😂. Maybe it's a Texan thing.

[@mattmaloney2445]

2 steps forward, one step back. Admire your work ethic and persistence.

[@SouthwestOhioNatives]

Just don't use invasive species when "Rehabbing" land

[@whimsofmim]

His work ethic would be a lot more admirable if it included spending 5 seconds to conduct a simple google search: "Texas banned plant list" or something along those lines

[@CB-vf7fu]

Learning experience, that’s what this project is about. We all deserve a little grace while we learn and grow.

[@openbooknutrition]

I'm sure neither you or the viewer had any malice in their actions. As a native Texan I am glad you ripped out the elephant grass and will be planting species that won't damage our natural ecosystems by competing with native ones. I also understand the value of not having the government tell you what to do, but in this case its warranted. Natural biodiversity is the planet's greatest strength and our greatest asset, and we should protect that. I think your project has the potential to do just that as long as you do it mindfully!

[@Ifyouarehurtnointentwasapplied]

Im glad you are taking it in your stride 👏✌️

[@jeffreyharrell1341]

Add a ground wire between your hot wires so your fence will work with poor ground conductivity. This trick will make it pop for sure. All an animal has to do is touch both wires, and you can skip the grounding rods. Dry ground is a poor conductor for an electric fence here in Texas.⚡️⚡️⚡️

[@evan010101]

Yup, the problem is not only the ground stake not having good conductivity, it’s the top layer of ground itself, that the animal is standing on, is more or less an insulator.

[@MarginalFarming]

and wire your the ground wire to the metal Tposts so each one becomes a ground rod..

[@olsim1730]

Hi guys in regards to fence shocks..the firmer you grasp the wire the milder the shock. It's the opposite when you're hesitant and you encourage the big cracking painful arc. All the best

[@justice_1337]

Well some commenters earned their "I told you so" badge.

[@Ebacherville]

If you know west Texas,. nothing is invasive there.....besides creosote bushes that are already there. .. any additional organic matter is good matter.

[@greghight954]

Buy a big sausage gun, mix a thick seed paste and just inject the paste where desired. Fast, easy and clean.

[@b4k4survivor]

And Shaun earned his sign... HERE'S YOUR SIGN!

[@MarginalFarming]

Some deserve a medal for creating the most amount of biomass with all their useless "High and Almighty" verbal BS.

[@money-ay]

@Ebacherville that is incorrect, buffle grass thrives in disturbed areas of west texas and chokes out small plants

[@Blue1Sapphire]

In Australia 40 yrs ago there was a fellow planting invasive and native species along river beds to slow down the water flow. His name was Peter Andrews and the Gov stood against him. Yet he demonstrated that his land was more drought resistant then all those around him. 40 yrs on and he sets the standard for establishing drought resistant properties.

[@MarginalFarming]

Peter Andrews is a legend - His techniques using plant species that are natural and easy to thrive are a game changer for eco systems. A weed is only a weed when it is inconvenient.

[@a4000t]

Many plants end up on the invasive species list wrongly.

[@Technoanima]

Correct. Toxic People think they are helping when they’re destroying ecosystems by preventing growth.

[@texasranchadventures]

@@Blue1Sapphire this reminds of how planting prickly pear is banned in Australia. 🤣

[@texasranchadventures]

That was a mess for them.

[@totallybonkers]

I like how chill you are about everything. You've got the total good dad thing going on - when stuff goes awry, you maintain calm. Everything is ok, all will be fine, just keep moving forward

[@JasonB52]

In a lot of ways, I think you dodged a bullet by not letting them get established. One of the main reasons that they are invasive is that they outcompete other species. Had they succeeded in getting themselves established you would be fighting an uphill battle for biodiversity when one of your species is stealing all of the water and nutrients. One other reason that they are considered invasive is because they are so difficult to control once established. They are absolutely the type of plant that can regrow if you miss a tiny piece of it when removing them. The good news for you is that because your site is so dry and exposed, it is much harder for them to get started. Do keep an eye out for survivors though! There is a nonzero chance that something may have survived your removal efforts!

[@Chase_Telemetric]

One reason they might grow is that the elephant grass is sequestering nutrients missing in the top soils Biomass and carbon are 100% effective in turning dirt into growing material Pity governments don’t know how to manage land and create rules to suit monocultures

[@Invisiblehand123]

In that environment? Shit, you should get a medal of some sort if you managed to do that. ''They are absolutely the type of plant that can regrow if you miss a tiny piece of it when removing them.'' Yeah, that's what you want. In a desert.

[@farmergiles1065]

@@Invisiblehand123 Um, he's trying to grow a forest, not a grassland. Remember what "outcompete" means. Not so good for biodiversity.

[@mikebrennan7331]

That elephant grass is a real pain in the ass where the water table is high or in riparian area. It will suck that water out of the ground like you wouldn't believe. It's invasive as all hell here in Inland So Cal.

[@fcuk_x]

Is he planting it in inland So Cal climate?....................................................

[@cortburris9526]

Oh wow, so it could have been a hinderance in the long run, sucking up all the water preventing other plants from germinating or growing.

[@blackduckfarmcanada]

Sucking up water is what ALL plants do to survive. This plant, if it had established, would have provided soil cover and shade to seedlings needing it

[@coreydavis6868]

@@cortburris9526 yep, its defiantly not of it to grows its fine i have seen that shit kill local plants that are already growing

[@dirkboch128]

@@cortburris9526 It's not secret knowledge, but this guy insists he does not need proper research (trial and error is his only method) and he does not listen to the comments from people with knowledge.

[@davidnoland4216]

Admirable intentions! So many invasives to beware of. I used to do a Sierra Club service trip in Big Bend. The object was to remediate overgrazing on a ranch acquired by the national park. We cut invasive salt cedar aka tamarisk or something along the Rio Grande River and used the cut brush to cover hydro-mulched native grass plantings. Actually the seed is mixed with the hydromulch. The soil surface temp supposedly reaches like 140 degrees so the brush covering shades the mulch to keep it cooler.

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

I'm guessing we'll probably never know the full story... if the viewer perhaps did try to comment about the invasive species or just went straight to the TX Dept Ag. But to be honest, as a Tx rancher who's always having to follow the rules.... well, there you go.... be informed, follow the rules.

[@oooodles3]

It was also following the rules to call in your neighbors who were conducting business and having parties during the covid lockdowns.

[@sdilluminatigrandfounder1813]

@@oooodles3 Yes, and since the lockdowns were in place to SAVE LIVES, I applaud anyone who did that.

[@jmmypaddy]

@@oooodles3 and that was good to do too?

[@minutemangangplank8599]

I work in land care in Australia and we do a lot of work regarding invasive species, it sucks to have to go over the rehab work you've already done but in the long run it is better for the health of the ecosystem.

[@thorwaldjohanson2526]

I agree, things that don't seem like a big deal can turn out disastrous. The complainer could have contacted him directly, but am in favor of that sort of regulation. But of course it is also understandable that it's frustrating to rip all of it out after working so hard on growing it. At least this was a relatively painless lesson to learn opposed to Yeats down the line, having to undo years of work.

[@minutemangangplank8599]

@@thorwaldjohanson2526 absolutely, last year i worked on a property of a cattle farm that had a really bad blackberry infestation which was 2 acres of top to bottom blackberry and only blackberry, which all started by a previous land owner who wanted 3 blackberry plants to make jams. By the end of those 2 weeks i was covered head to toe in scratches from blackberry thorns

[@malus911]

As far as I can tell, there is no eco system to muck with out there. It's a desert. If you can get anything to grow would be a miracle. Leave the man and his oasis alone. Damn busy bodies....

[@burte.gummer7545]

👆

[@NickCombs]

I feel you on the blackberries. I'm constantly fighting those brambles. Our entire area is infested with them.

[@stevewinwood3674]

Can't wait for you to get a good rain and see how the bathtubs,dams, and different areas hold water

[@dannyk3115]

Im glad you got the list ,it help you going forward.

[@roberts663]

Yeah someone needed to send him the list because it isnt easy to find by googling "texas banned invasive plants" or any similar search term. *rolls eyes* With the videos he has released the last couple months i am thinking this dude and his team are in way over their heads and wasting their time, money and energy

[@BasicObject]

Really excited you found a faster easier way to plant. Efficiency for the win!

[@arnoldindustries6983]

That viewer did you a favor. You speak a lot about doing things right. Even with good intentions sometimes we need guidance and you got it before it became a huge problem. Carry on.

[@mikepie951]

The viewer did the right thing. You fixed it. Its all good.

[@traviswarren6958]

it was you! WASNT IT!

[@MrgudPrdic]

@@traviswarren6958 LOL

[@jonb6099]

Bro, u seem a little bummed about pulling the elephant. I get it. But, don’t let that slow u down. You got a list now and it is a great learning lesson. Keep up the good work. We are all rooting for ya!!!

[@coreydavis6868]

its saving him from hell down the road that shits nasty

[@Invisiblehand123]

@@coreydavis6868 What exactly is nasty about a plant that can give you 50t of dry biomass per hectare in perfect conditions? What other plants are there that can suck up and sequester as much CO2 as Arundo Donax? I'll wait.. It makes Miscanthus look like amateur hour.

[@GeograFiend]

Thank you for all of your work, sharing your hard-learned lessons with the world!

[@markgilbert232]

Best thing that could have happened. Good thing the government was there to inform you. Maybe could have been done in a better way. However you are informed, you still learned. We all learned.

[@PlantFun1]

It sucks to do work you have to reverse but that's just part of learning. I'm pretty glad it got taken out since I winced when I saw it go in on another episode. Also happy a government agency did its job and it didn't seem like they asked anything unreasonable like a fine or need for a lawyer. They just wanted photographic evidence of disposal which is pretty fair and easy to comply with. The list of other species not to plant is also helpful to avoid anything in the future. Also I'd be thrilled at the success of palo verde and rattlebush from seed. They're going to be the quick growing, nitrogen fixing, shade-producing, deeper rooted, organic matter shedding types of plants you want to make the habitat cozier for the more specialized plants. In fact regarding shade I would try putting different amounts of shade cloth over some of the bed and see if the reduced evaporation, UV stress, and heat would make it easy on some of the seedlings that naturally germinate in the shade of other mature plants. As an example of this, in desert climates most cactus growers use shade cloth to grow a lot of cacti because unintuitively a lot of them are sensitive, especially when they're young. You're already kind of doing this by putting some of those Agaves and potted plants next to the buildings for a little shade but with shade cloth it would be like part of your bed is in the shade of your building too.

[@pkerit308]

its unusual to find a government employee who treats you decently

[@stpaulofmpls]

Sorry for your troubles. You will persevere!

[@cptcosmo]

19:30 you can really see how the vegetation is greener already the deeper it is in the wash behind you outside of the electric fence versus at the top of the wash.

[@r5o4m]

I’m sure the viewer who “turned you in” will be appreciated by the native plants who won’t have to compete with the DustUps Giant Reed Grass long after we’re dead… ❤

[@ElizabethAnderson-t8p]

I suggest you use a small cookie dough scoop for your clay/seed clump. They come in several sizes and would make it so your hands stay relatively clean as you work.

[@DivergentMoon]

Thank you for accepting correction gracefully. I know you love your land and would not want to harm it and the land beyond.

[@whimsofmim]

Gracefully? Describing the viewer as "enraged" and soliciting people's negative feelings toward that person ("tell me what you think of their activism") is hardly graceful. Also, saying the only reason he is going to follow the rules is to avoid the government (showing he has zero understanding of why that species is on a banned list in the first place). It was anything but graceful. Arrogant, childish, whiney... yes. But graceful? Hardly.

[@cranberrylangers3095]

Good update video, Shaun! Thanks, guys!

[@dummyaccount.k]

Have you considered covering the rows during germination? With a clear plastic thingy, like a tent. A greenhouse tent to keep in the moisture

[@dustupstexas]

We planted in the summer. Plastic would cook everything

[@crazymultiman]

yeah i mean its a massive shame that the elephant grass was technically invasive but its good that it was easy to take out and the gov group seemed to be understanding

[@QUINTUSMAXIMUS]

I am proud of your hard work. Show appreciation for the Earth like the Natives did. Show loving compassion to other people.

[@WatermelonLover]

Hey, I'm slowly watching through all your videos and I'm currently on the one about KZbin viewers and what they want to see. I'm one of the ones that's here for it all. This is a way to document your journey and also share it with others. Also if you don't want to film all the time don't worry about it. Or setup the drone camera to follow you while you work and do time lapses so you can stay in the zone.

[@MnGirl1994]

Hopefully, down the road, we'll see some fig, pomegranate, prickly pear, and even olive trees growing on the land!

[@dustupstexas]

Pomegranate is in the nursery

[@zb7293]

​@@dustupstexascan you have Palm trees, dates?

[@Invisiblehand123]

Please explain why any of these plants are an upgrade if your goal is to build soil?

[@napoleonbonaparte7204]

​@@zb7293if that is in Brewster County it may be too cold 🥶 for Date palm Trees..

[@napoleonbonaparte7204]

​@@dustupstexaspomegranate is a wonderful choice if is not too cold for them.. They tolerate drought, poor soil, and is delicious plus good nutricional value...best wishes

[@manekou3303]

I'm gonna give the person who reported you the benefit of the doubt. They might not have been angry, just concerned. Invasive species can be a nightmare especially if they're good enough at taking hold. You should consider yourself lucky the elephant grass didn't grow.

[@Yutani_Crayven]

Nah, that's not how the internet works, unfortunately. It's almost always the malicious ones doing it, and not out of concern for specific issues, but using any issue they can find to get to people. Those are the most motivated ones, and that's also why they will escalate as hard as they can from the get go instead of trying to solve things amicably.

[@ceascevoi]

Really? Invasive species in DESERT? It truly be terrible if this rocky place become green because INVASION!

[@alexstrand6097]

​@Yutani_Crayven Several people brought up that it was invasive and he never addressed it. I wouldn't attribute either to malice, Shaun probably didn't see the comment and the viewer after trying to get his attention probably went to the state before the grass caused problems.

[@money-ay]

He cannot play victim here, because he was warned several times and didnt bother to research even a little bit.

[@moneyandtimefreedom3352]

@@money-ayagree he is made he got caught. There a tons of comments in other videos pointing it out. His response to them if he did respond was arrogant. His videos shows he half asses a lot of things, no thought into the processes. He listens to a guy from Brazil, where you do what ever you want. I’m here for the shit show.

[@viewer-of-content]

Greetings from South Dakota. If you want more drought resistant grass cover look into spreading some buffalo grass. It grows all the way up north here, and prefers the the dryer spots of the state like The Bad Lands National Park. It's also a Texas native grass, and Buffalo Grass pretty much grows throughout the north to south access of The Great Plains.

[@carlj176]

Shaun! Take your boot and socks off and touch that fence. You will feel it!!

[@trevorstewart8]

Shaun if you are planting seeds again you could make it go faster by making a seeder by taking a fence post, attach a length of 20mm/3/4 PVC pipe to it with cable ties, a plastic bottle hopper at the top (remove its bottom) and a trailing device to cover the seeds at the bottom. Then walk the row, job done.

[@joeyhardin1288]

Thank you!!! We have tried to get rid of Johnson grass in Kentucky since Johnson introduced it. I have enough in my 1/2 acre fence row to replant Texas.

[@billmccaffrey1977]

Have you thought about germinating seeds in biodegradable pressed recycled cardboard cups and then plant cup and all in the desert? I have tried to sow the same native grasses, even hydro-mulched them, with very low germination rates. The State uses dry grass mats to sow the seeds in for road projects. My experience with this tells me that dropping the seeds onto dusty rock will yield less than 1% germination. I hope your luck is far better than mine.

[@dustupstexas]

A viewer donated ECBs that I'll be trying

[@mr.shannon6137]

I was going to suggest the same thing. I think if they are germinated in a controlled environment, like a grgreenhouse, then transplanted after they are a couple inches tall, the success rate would be worth the effort. Covering the seeds in hormones, fertilizer, etc. then putting them in dry almost inert soil doesn't seem like it would be very productive.

[@TheFabledSCP7000]

The problem with re planting from a greenhouse is that the conditions will stimulate lateral (close to surface) root growth while in deserts, where plants recieve only one big downpour and rely on below surface water, they grow vertical (deep) roots and it is _very_ difficult to train plants to change root growth patterns It is a viable option on the terraces, swales and bath tubs, so there is that

[@billmccaffrey1977]

@@TheFabledSCP7000 We are not talking a mature plants, only germination. The root systems would be at their smallest but would be alive. dropping seeds with no protection will give you the lowest germination rate. My experience in south central Texas limestone soil and our current drought would say less that a 1% germination rate. BTW: I have planted close to 500 lbs of native grass seed here and this is not guess work.

[@TheFabledSCP7000]

@@billmccaffrey1977 yeah That would work

[@eckmann88]

Well-meaning but not well-informed people often take actions that have horrible effects on ecosystems. Knowing that you won’t be threatening native species by planting invasives is something to celebrate, not be annoyed at.

[@intelula]

I've grown a lot of different types of seeds and they can be very difficult. Even seeds that are normally easy to sprout can be problematic if even one condition isn't within specs. I think you would have better luck growing them indoors or in a green house so you can tailor the sprouting environment for each seed type. You would also be able to keep them safe from seed eating animals and insects. Use soil blocks for transplant sensitive plants and taller tree starting pots for trees that start off growing by producing a large tap root. You could grow extras to sell and help fund the project. Seeds that need to stratify (not sure if I spelled that right) you could put in little biodegradable fabric pots stacked in a tote for the winter. pop some holes in the bottom of the tote and pour water over them through out the winter and in spring they should pop up once it gets warm.

[@craigmerryfull7704]

Looking at you struggle in this barren soil makes me thankful for my subtropical soil that gets rain every 2-4 weeks.

[@will-by-the-bay4890]

Like that you are constantly innovating as you work.

[@randomviewer3494]

Seems many people commented about the grass before. I guess you not taking action on that made them step to the government. Its a good thing its removed now, you don't want invasives ruining the land.

[@_MikeJon_]

Nice! You did a good job dude. Sucks those dead plants had to go but meh, i guess we all learned something.

[@carriann26]

We admire you so much. Thank you for doing this for all of us.

[@daviddeluna4186]

You’re making content for the public to see you can’t be salty when that public calls you out for your inability or unwillingness to verify what you’re doing is legal. That list of banned grasses should have been something you sought out since the beginning. I think it’s great what you’re trying to do but be grateful your mistake was caught and corrected before there was significant damage to surrounding areas and any monetary damage to yourself.

[@joshuabrown4502]

Acting like the TDOA are coming for you is kinda silly to me. They helped you out and did their jobs. This was a great opportunity to make a video educating us (and yourself) about why it's a problem so we can learn from it. Removing the invasives just to avoid further contact with the government really ignores the way the government is also helping you with the beaver dam analogs.

[@danielkruk212]

Also really think doing a germination bed close to camp and then transplanting might be better bang for your buck Keep at it, enjoy the videos

[@markhostetler6319]

Ironically, Shawn transplanted the Elephant Grass from another location in Texas! Shawn, please see this as a blessing as my ex-girlfriend was also considered an evasive species.

[@tomatito3824]

The paste is a great idea, thank you for sharing!

[@nolanfaherty726]

You should get in touch with Crime Pays but Botany Doesn’t. He might be able to set you up with some Texas native plants. I have a feeling he would enjoy what you’re doing

[@gentlemanbirdlake]

Except ironically this episode has more of a Neither Crime Nor Botany Pays vibe to it 😂

[@nolanfaherty726]

@@gentlemanbirdlake all I said was he could maybe help him get Texas native plants. Joey is all about native plants and habitats. Both have very different content, but passionate about a similar thing

[@gentlemanbirdlake]

@@nolanfaherty726 yeah this wasn’t a disagreement to your suggestion, just pointing out ironic humor of the situation. I don’t imagine you are the first to suggest this connection, ya know, it is rather obvious there is some cross-over potential but also their vastly different approaches might not mesh? who knows would be interesting to see no doubt.

[@nickjohnson2367]

Listen to the Crime Pays podcast... Joey has mentioned dustups several times and unsurprisingly has nothing positive to say. This project, while well intentioned, is built on a foundation of ignorance and is counterproductive to its own goals. So far Shaun has expended a massive amount of resources to achieve absolutely nothing, even travelling hundreds of miles to introduce invasive species to a remote area. He would achieve better results by donating this money to a restoration organization like the Thornscrub Sanctuary instead of making it an ego-driven project where he has to play the savior despite being absolutely clueless.

[@Morongobill]

@@nickjohnson2367 Never have I enjoyed giving a thumbs down to a comment as much as yours.

[@jamesnelson5110]

Elephant grass is quite invasive a real plague in some areas. Eventually as your reclamation proceeded and growth was really getting successful the elephant grass rapidly take over. Not every where for sure

[@fcuk_x]

Which desert areas Elephant grass made worse than they were?

[@mariannesonntag2543]

I'm holding a picture in my mind that's connected to a prayer,..many grasses sprouting on your terrace. Good work Shaun. Your heart is good. Keep on keepin' on.

[@JordanBeagle]

I love to see the teamwork between the two of them that Shaun as permanent hired hand

[@MusicIsMyAdicction]

Its astonishing that you got something to grow on this patch of land. I've seen a lot of greening the deserts project and you are in the most arid zone of them all.

[@derechte5079]

Always a highlight when a video drops ❤

[@Patschenkino]

Especially when it really 💧 s!

[@RobbedZombies]

I think we lost an opportunity to learn about WHY that plant is a problem. WHY is it so bad that your own viewer would report it? If you think the plant is fine - WHY? Make a case for it. Maybe it stings to hear from law enforcement instead of getting appreciation for this crazy, for-all-the-good-reasons, project but keep your head up, we appreciate what you’re doing, the sacrifices, and lessons learned.

[@b4k4survivor]

Yep. Teachable moment totally missed because he wants to whine and blame a commenter for his own lack of due diligence

[@b4k4survivor]

@@iridium8341 I have no idea

[@angrylittlespider4593]

I think this is a teaching moment for all. I believe Shaun has nothing but good intentions for this project, but knowing regulations is entirely his own responsibility. Likewise, contacting him directly if we see a perceived infraction before reporting him to authorities would be preferable. If he seems he is disregarding sound advice and arrogantly pressing forward that's on him. Personally, I'm just glad the solution is as simple as it proved to be, and he took it in stride. Problem solved. Fortunately Dustups is not part of an HOA so Karens need not apply.

[@gendron1982]

This has nothing to do with "Karen's". There was sufficient advice in the original video for Shaun to take pause and assess. The advice was inconvenient and was ignored because it interfered with the shortcut to biomass. The situation was then corrected

[@durp_with_muk]

Can I come live with you for a year and help. This seems like the mind reset I need in life. You are doing a wonderful thing for this planet! Don't worry about people dobbing you in, we all make mistakes and it's about what we learn from them. You are one man making a huge impact for this planet, all it takes is one strong minded soul to start a movement for the better.

[@jakattah]

The Bouteloua species look like they need light to germinate, so some of the others may too. I'd suggest an experiment with a nursery tray. Put in some seed raising mix press the seed into the surface without covering in soil. Cover with a fine vermiculite. It will hold some moisture and allow sunlight through. You should get seedlings within 3 weeks. You can leave these in the tray until they reach a good height and divide them later.

[@johncandy2916]

If only people had spoken up about planting non-native, invasive species in an isolated ecosystem when you’d started… And to insinuate that the viewer was in the wrong? They’re just watching out for Texas. Good on ‘em.

[@npsit1]

They could have EASILY handled it differently. There was likely ZERO reason to call the state to tell him.

[@whimsofmim]

@@npsit1 Shaun could have EASILY handled it differently, like doing a five second google search "banned plants Texas" before planting that crap. There was likely ZERO reason to do no research and then ignore all the comments in the video 2 months ago where people told him not to plant it, that it was an invasive, that DHS is against it, that it's being eradicated in Texas, etc. Does Shaun have ANY ownership in what happens on his ranch and this project, or is it all up to random viewers to do all the research for him?

[@Ap_twsh]

If you understood the ecosystem was damaged by settlers from the beginning you’d be less likely to throw a fit over something small like planting something. He’s not doing anything that will do any negative affect on the ecosystem, the deserts were not always deserts and change with time eventually will become something else. If your smart you’d know this.

[@Ap_twsh]

secondly what’s more damaging to the ecosystem (everything is connected)is the way your clothes is manufactured and transported across the world. 😂🤣

[@johncandy2916]

@@Ap_twsh “not doing anything damaging” I guess that’s why a state agency made him rip it out of the ground right?

[@Zirudinho]

Thats a interesting project, keep going ❤ Do you ever heard about Caatinga in Brazil? Its a rich ecosystem that is adapted to dry lands, I’m pretty sure some species from caatinga can grow well on a desert

[@keithiebaby100]

Nice Henri Mancini quote with the elephant grass. ‘Cheers!’ froma music teacher in Vancouver. Keep up the good work.

[@GniewnyMedrzec]

6:50 Whistling "Baby Elephant Walk" (by Henry Mancini) while carrying Elephant Grass 😆

[@kraphtymac]

Watching you try to plant this grass is one of the more painful things I’ve ever seen.

[@mrlover4310]

Just take it out like you said just move on it's a learning curve

[@barrymccockener9857]

That’s unfortunate. I was loving the greenery the elephant grass was providing. Way to take it on the chin and not let it get you down.

[@livingportside]

I think most of that greenery was sorghum anyways so it is still there. From the video it looked like the majorty of the elephant grass hadn't done much.

[@clifgodfrey6164]

Had a feeling that was gonna happen (but wasn’t me that tipped ‘em off)

[@AdaOnaPC]

Agreed with some of your other viewers, they might have wanted to reach out to you before going to the gov about it... But my experience is the gov only ever wants things done right and are more likely to help you learn what you need to be following regulations than to fine you for stuff like this.

[@guerillagardener2237]

It makes perfect sense that he is doing little projects because he can figure out what works and what doesn't without wasting too much time. If this terrace is successful, future efforts will just be consolidation.

[@lvthud]

There were plenty of people saying not to plant it in the comments.

[@davidater9]

What a disaster avoided! Just think if Elephant Grass had taken over the entire desert and turned it green and lush. I am sure glad we didn't fall into that trap.

[@MarginalFarming]

Correct - it is invasive for a good reason ..

[@Technoanima]

Some people cannot see the forest for the trees.

[@BryceGarling]

So you would rather something green the desert and choke out the native plants that support the wildlife?

[@MarginalFarming]

@@BryceGarling If it grows - it is native and perennial - Elephant grass is a high fodder species. - requires little water and no fertilizer

[@MarginalFarming]

@@BryceGarling elephant grass is a valuable fodder source. If it grows it means that the nutrients in the soil are activated and reproducing beneficial micro-organisms to support all species.

[@SkwerlPlushie]

NGL, If you didn't get a fine, why even be upset about this viewer who talked to an agency that wants a healthy ecosystem just like you do? The Department of Agriculture isn't your enemy here, they let you know, you fixed the problem. You'd be a whole lot more upset if you didn't listen and you watched an invasive completely take over your terraces. Think of Kudzu in the american south, or Himalayan Blackberry in the PNW. Be thankful you found out now before it was a giant pain in the ass to deal with. By also providing you with that list, and letting you know the seriousness of the situation the Department of Ag really helped you out here and was a friend to everyone by doing what they did, with the assistance of your compliance. I wish you luck on your future endeavors and hope you see this also as just another lesson to learn.

[@fat_para]

considering that it wouldn't have much of a chance growing outside the watered terrace, and only being used as mulch afterwards, I don't think it would have posed much of a problem

[@darcyrobbs6866]

But they are the enemy?

[@pkerit308]

@@darcyrobbs6866 its the extremely harsh way they threaten you if you dont Do As You Are Told

[@b-r-a-i-n-r-o-t]

fr he spent like the first 10 minutes complaining about having to fix something he openly admits was a problem he caused. tech bro energy

[@blackoak4978]

I'm sure in the long run you will be glad that it got sorted early. Not the best way for someone to bring up the issue, but better for the project in the long run

[@fcuk_x]

What do you think would happen to this arid rocky desert if that Elephant grass took?

[@coreydavis6868]

they left comments like almost spam level amounts

[@markmcconnell1374]

You are giving it a go and you made a mistake, don't let that set you back. Can't wait for the second Terrace.

[@chriswiedeman490]

It's a good thing they reported you. That grass does not belong in Texas. But that's how many invasive and noxious weeds get started. Well meaning folk put it in without knowing the consequences of their actions. I applaud the person to alerted the state.

[@extraterralien]

literally. invasives are no joke

[@oooodles3]

you're a sick human being. the same kind of person that reported their neighbors to the Nazis - well, it was the law!

[@davebaer8504]

Childish

[@oooodles3]

When you report your fellow neighbors to the State - that makes you the worst kind of human being. This is what neighbors did to each other in Nazi Germany and under Stalin - they were following the law, afterall. You are no different Weedman, take a hard look inward and ask yourself if you're any different. It' starts with "grass" and ends with entire families being summarily executed without trial in their front yards. Read history you chump. "...good thing they reported you" jesus christ

[@brettpullen7853]

Dig dirt bathtubs, throw a seed ball blend in each bathtub.

[@IvanKinsmanSDP]

If a plant species is banned then I think fair deal that it has to be removed. And it seems like it wasn't contributing anyways. An example of what can go wrong is mimosa - this was introduced in Portugal and is now growing everywhere and is a huge fire risk. Good to see those native grasses going in.

[@jmmypaddy]

and yet you support Reform, the far right liars 🤮🤮 the least patriotic party

[@zolanquobble3943]

Can't help thinking that waiting for the rain is more frustrating than everything else. Real rain on your plot of land is going to change my mood for the better and I'm thousands of miles away. Interesting point about the shade. I remember an environmental artist many years ago advocating for the building of hollow columns in deserts, claiming that the permanent cooling shade in the columns would attract moisture and the moisture would attract life and that would attract more life. I think you have enough on your plate without building columsn though. Good luck with everything, especially the rain.

[@craigmerryfull7704]

You should get a texan cowboy hat being out in that harsh sun so much.

[@bjrockensock]

As an ornamental gardener in the city, I have several gardens that have many perennials, trees, and shrubs, that were cultured in the horticulture trade, came into fashion, then became weeds--and in some places invasive. Invasive means colonizing, usually by rhizome AND seed. I am certainly guilty of sharing these plants, either ignorantly, unwittingly, or intentionally. I regret it in almost every situation, not aesthetically, necessarily, but from cost of maintenance and abatement. One thing to spread them in the city where they are mostly trapped by infrastructure. But at my parents' farm in the Northwoods, I DEFINITELY wish I hadn't planted a few of these listed invasives; although, in one sense they grow really well and perform beautifully... but really bossy and thuggy.

[@bjrockensock]

** and Heavily reseeding annuals.

[@pauldurkee4764]

I'm an amateur gardener and volunteer for a conservation group here in the UK. We have a real problem in the UK with non native invasive species, mostly brought back by planthunters in the 1800s for people to introduce to their estate gardens. Probably the most troublesome are Rhododendron, Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsalm. Knotweed is probably the worst since it requires a lot of effort just to control it and is causing all sorts of problems legally when it borders residential property. Best wishes from Wales.

[@bjrockensock]

In the Twin Cites metro in Minnesota, we have real buckthorn problem, many others ​@@pauldurkee4764

[@Automedon2]

Rose of Sharon hibiscus is a plague around me. I wish I could go back and slap the first person who thought it would be a pretty addition to their garden. Bradford Pear.....uggggh!

[@bjrockensock]

Especially considering there are native plants or hybrids for both!!

[@dreadwinter]

Whoever reported you was absolutely right in doing so. It's not on them to inform you or argue and convince you. Not their responsibility or their authority. It's on which ever government body has the authority to tell you what you can and cant do.

[@b4k4survivor]

He's being incredibly immature and childish, blaming others for his own lack of research and ignorance. It's not like this info wasn't accessible via a quick Google search.

[@peacefulscrimp5183]

Hope you are fully vaccinated

[@sohweather5448]

Think we know now who reported him

[@jds1275]

Naw the only people who go to the government are in the wrong. In America, we aren't supposed to rely on the government to do things we can do ourselves. It shows they fail at life. A simple message could have fixed this easily, where as people who look to the government only want to destroy people's lives. But what can you expect from the Karen personality.

[@benweaver2957]

Calm down Karen

[@ninenine5804]

Realistic electrocution animation around 10:57

[@jeffcmcm]

Haha.....Electrocution....Best Ian animation so far!

[@garywheeler7039]

I had heard of Kudzu but not Elephant Grass. Now I know why I had not heard of Elephant Grass. Invasive and probably grows too fast almost like Kudzu. Live and learn and adapt as necessary.