AU researchers studying Asian grass

AUBURN, Ala. (AP) - Researchers at Auburn University will use an almost $500,000 federal grant to determine how Asian cogongrass is affecting Alabama's pine forests.

Stephen Enloe, a specialist on invasive plants at Auburn, says cogongrass will crowd out native plants if left unchecked in an area. Grant money from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to study what happen when the grass gets into pine stands.

A native of Asia, cogongrass first was discovered in Alabama near Mobile during the early part of the 20th century. It's believed the grass was used in packing materials coming into the Port of Mobile, and it's now spread to 32 of Alabama's 67 counties.

The grass grows in thick, dense mats.