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Seeking spotted knapweed control methods

I would appreciate hearing about the experiences of others on control
methods for the elimination of spotted knapweed.  

Our 3 acre site was severly degraded by grazing, portions are dominated by
quack, smooth brome, and knapweed.  After 3 years of burning there are a
few small areas of side oats and prairie bush clover, with panicum
oligosanthes spreading quickly, even competeing with the knapweed.
Ideally, we would prefer a control method that minimizes the need for
volunteer hours, and does not use the more toxic chemicals.  There is no
budget, but Roundup is available. Hand pulling is not an  option in areas
where infestation is most severe.

Has anyone used cutting/mowing over a number of years?  

How many years of cutting and pulling does it take to clear a plot of
knapweed?  

Is it necessary to attempt removal on all 3 acres, or can control proceed
section by section?

When spotted knapweed is dominant, is it feasible to proceed with
restoration without attempting to control it?  Will it just recede in time
in the presence of fire and competition?

Would a realistic stratagy be to roundup in the early spring 2-3 years,
seeding with only warm season, slow to green up grasses and forbs.  On the
fourth year begin the introduction of spring and early starter species?

thanks for all comments and suggestions, 
Bonnie Weisel
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Bonnie D. Weisel 					    bonnie@psl.wisc.edu
Day 608 877-2235         
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