Although tallow trees threaten native plants in certain parts of our state, the problem is drastically more dangerous in the Mississippi Valley region. Ben Powell, our state pollinator expert, said that the US Department of Agriculture is doing research to find biological controls that might slow the spread of this serious invasive species. After extensive study, experts have found two insects from the native range of tallow trees that could help slow its spread. One is a Lepidoperan for whom tallow is the only larval food source and the other being a leaf beetle. Neither insect feeds on any other plant at all. Powell explained that if released, they will in no possible way eliminate tallow trees from the ecosystem, but by reducing the vigor of plants, hopefully slow down their growth and seed production, preserving space for native beneficial plants.