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Exotic, invasive woody plants are a threat to rangeland ecosystems by disrupting hydrologic and nutrient cycles, displacing native plant species and reducing biodiversity at multiple trophic levels. Mechanical controls can be effective on some species, but high site disturbance caused by these methods often proliferates invasive plants and profoundly alters desired habitats by disrupting structure and function of rangeland communities. In semi-arid and arid climates, soil disturbance can provide abundant and long-lasting loci for invasive herbaceous species establishment. Biological controls are effective on some invasive woody species locally, but they tend to have had limited effectiveness in reducing adverse impacts on a larger scale. Historically, chemical control of exotic woody species has resulted in non-target damage to native plant species, depending on the herbicides used and application technique. Recent advances in herbicide chemistry and application techniques enable selective and targeted invasive woody plant control, while mitigating their adverse impact on desired species and rangeland ecosystems. These advances include: saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) control in riparian areas by mechanical removal followed and individual plant treatment (cut surface applications) of Garlon? 4 Ultra herbicide (triclopyr butoxyethyl ester). Additionally Miconia spp. control in Hawaiian forests with aerial applications of Milestone? herbicide (aminopyralid triisopropolamine) using a drop nozzle from a helicopter or an herbicide ballistic technology application provide precise control of the invader with minimal impact to the landscape. In the east, Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana) control in longleaf pine forests with Milestone herbicide or Garlon 4 herbicide maintains natural forests. Knowledge of herbicides and application methods enables land managers to select the best tools for rangeland restoration objectives. Herbicides often act as a catalyst for desired change in rangeland communities. This desired effect can be sustained when herbicides are used in conjunction with other practices in a long-term programmatic approach.