Invasive Weeds Projects
The Upper Yellowstone Watershed Group is focused on multiple efforts to promote and preserve the soil health, water quality, and plant biodiversity and productivity of our open spaces.
One of these ongoing efforts is managing invasive weeds. It's not just about getting rid of weeds, however. It's about creating robust ecosytems for our native plants as well as our agricultural crops.
Whether you are a producer or just a private landowner with a few acres, we can help you create resilient habitat for your land. For more information, see some of the below ways we can help you manage invasives on your property.
Email us at upperyellowstone@gmail.com if you would like your property included with others who have taken the pledge to "Stop Invasive Weeds" and improve soil health on their property.
Weed science today is at a crossroads because the traditional approach to control weeds with herbicides is challenged by environmental, economic, and social concerns. Further, widespread development of herbicide-resistance has also been observed. We have gone through a "learning cycle" in our paradigms on weed management. A trend towards using a holistic approach to weed management has evolved at the end of this learning cycle. "Weed scientists of tomorrow" are being instilled with a more holistic rubric of weed management than their predecessors. This article reviews alternative approaches for a more holistic weed management strategy.
Depending on where you are at with improving your land, we can help with weed control through spraying and long-term biologics, or improving your soil to prevent weeds in the first place. Whatever you think your issues are, we are here to help you on your journey.
Get Funding for your own Weed Management
Apply Here
A large portion of Paradise Valley (see below map) has been awarded significant funds to help local landowners treat weeds on their private property. You have options that meet your objectives. Sometimes biological pest control using insects can be a long term approach. Other times, spraying is necessary to get on top of a problem area. Other times, you may need to mow or burn like in the case of cheatgrass. Other times, grazing is a good approach. There are many ways to skin a cat, and if you want your landscape to outshine the rest, it often takes a holistic approach. In the end, you will create a better habitat whether it be for a hayfield, a garden, or to attract wildlife.
STEP ONE:
If your property falls within the map boundary below (and your gross income is below $900,000) and you would like to sign-up to be part of the program, please fill out the below form, providing your name, email, etc and we will reach out to help you sign up for the program. Optionally, you can email Dave Molebash david.molebash@usda.gov and he will contact you and answer your questions.
STEP TWO: When or if you are ready to sign-up for the actual free conservation technical assistance (CTA), download and complete the USDA LANDOWNER APPLICATION FORM by clicking button below and email the completed form or contact Dave Molebash david.molebash@usda.gov if you need any support.
Weed Management 101
The following provides basic information on what a Water Balance study entails, and how it can be very useful for making planning decisions.