A weed is defined as any plant that interferes with management objectives for a given area of land at a given point in time. Invasive weeds are one of the greatest threats to Montana’s environment. When these invaders are allowed to spread, they cause a reduction in wildlife forage, degrade fisheries through erosion and sediment buildup and reduce property values. Currently, Montana has approximately 7.6 million precious acres infested with state-listed noxious weeds, and several new and potentially disastrous weeds are trying to creep in.
The Richland County Weed District currently manages noxious weeds on state and county lands including: 7 Fish Wildlife and Park Sites, 50 miles up both sides of the Yellowstone River, 70 miles up one side of the Missouri River, 240 miles of state highway, 1400 miles of county roads, and 2084 square miles.
The RCWD has been in operation since the early 60s. Its present Weed Coordinator is Dick Zoanni. The County Weed Board, representing all areas of Richland County, is made up of Johnnie Johnston, Don Iverson, Dale Edam, Dan Thornton and Mark Casterline. Previous Weed Coordinators include Ken Babcock, Con Donvan and Red Lovec. All have been assisted by Louis Kimbrell.
The Richland County Weed District was recently chosen as the “2012 Outstanding Weed District” at the State Convention of the Montana Weed Control Association on January 15-17.
Outstanding Weed District is defined as a district that has increased public awareness of weed problems and has involved county government and the public in the control efforts.
The district must also show significant improvements through on-ground treatment as well as used innovative approaches while being cost-effective.
Due to the fact that a weed district may only receive this award once within a 5-year period, this is quite an accomplishment.
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