IntroductionOver the past 200 years, salt cedar (Tamarix spp.) has encroached on western waterways. Salt cedar was introduced accidentally as an uncontrolled ornamental plant and intentionally as a bank stabilizer (Sher, Marshall and Taylor, 2002). Species of the genus Tamarix were considered very useful until they were observed to outcompete the native genus Salix (willow) and Populous (aspen and populous) trees. It is now considered a weed in 7 western states (Zouhar, 2003). The effects of the presence and invasion of Tamarix have been felt in terms of displacement of native tree species, loss of biodiversity, water loss and salt accumulation. The effect is not only on abiotic factors, but also on native animal species, such as the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Many management strategies have been used to attempt to control Tamarix spp in the west. Strategies include biological control, herbicides, mechanical treatments, and changes in water management practices. Despite the unwelcome presence, it is important to understand why the plant is there, the physiology of the plant, and what has successfully restored native communities to their stable natural state of native species. Here we will explore plant physiology, long-held preconceptions about why saltcedar has invaded, some management techniques, and considerations for present and future research and control. In order to understand how salt cedar invasion symptoms occur, it is important to understand the characteristics that cause the plant to survive and what the underlying cause of the invasion may be. In this report, Tamarix species will be highlighted in specific examples but most often with general characteristics on the limbs...... middle of article ......a trailii extimus). Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sher, A., Marshall, D. and Taylor, J. (June 2002). Establishment model of native Populus and Salix in the presence of invasive non-native Tamarix. Ecological Applications, 12(3), pp. 760-772. Taylor, J. L. (2000). Populus fremontii. Retrieved from U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Reaserach Station, Fire Science Laboratory: http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/popfre/introductory.htmlVandersande, MW, Glenn , EP and Walworth, JL (2001). Tolerance of five riparian plants of the lower Colorado River to drought and salinity-induced flooding. Journal of Arid Environments, 49, 147-159. doi:10.1006Zouhar, K. (2003). Tamarix spp. Retrieved from United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station: http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/tamspp/all.html