Weed Management Projects
Weed Eradication, Class A Noxious Weeds
Buffalobur, Velvetleaf, Giant hogweed, Shiny Geranium
Four Class A noxious weeds are known to be present in Lewis County and being managed to eradicate these high priority pests. Buffalobur and Velvetleaf are the most elusive and typically found late in the summer buy curious homeowners as new introduction to a flower bed, garden or cultivated field. Livestock manure, (grain sources) and bird seed are both known to be sources of new weed seed coming into our area.
The massive plant, Giant hogweed has been planted in the past as an exotic ornamental and is found growing typically in home landscapes or sites where plants have been disposed. Giant hogweed is unique with it oversize height (up to 12”), flower size (15”wide) and large, dissected leaves. The plant is poisonous and requires special attention with its management.
A new record of Shiny geranium was made in 2011 near Toledo. The plant is also known to occur in other counties of Southwest Washington. The very small, shade loving plant, with shiny leaves and pink flowers may be confused with other plants and weeds in the Geranium family. Other Class A noxious weeds that Lewis County citizens should be aware of include: Garlic mustard, False brome and Hydrilla.
Forest Service Invasive Plant Management
Cooperative weed management has been ongoing with the US Forest Service on the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District and Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Weed awareness, survey, control, site restoration and monitoring are important components of this program. The major focus is managing Scotch broom, invasive knapweeds and other noxious weeds on trailheads, campgrounds and roadsides from which weed seeds can travel through the forest. Other partners in this effort include: Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington State Department of Transportation and the Noxious Weed Programs in Skamania, Cowlitz, Pierce and Yakima Counties.
WHAM - Wilderness Hay and Mulch Program
The Lewis County Weed Control Board supports the Wilderness Hay and Mulch program (WHAM) in Washington State by endorsing its use in our National Forests and construction projects. Hay growers in Lewis County can provide certified weed free hay to horseman, hunters and contractors who need this material. A current list of local WHAM producersis available at the State Weed Board website. The Lewis County Weed Program can provide growers with more information on the process to certify hay and straw with the WHAM standard. Additional information is available with WSDA Wilderness Hay and Mulch Program.
WSDA Invasive Knotweed Control
Knotweed is an aggressive noxious weed that spreads quickly, shades out native plants and destroys wildlife habitat. Knotweed threatens riparian areas where it can survive flood events and then colonize the disturbed shorelines and adjacent uplands. The Lewis County Noxious Weed Control Board is working with the Washington State Department of Agriculture, Statewide Knotweed Program, to control invasive knotweed in the Upper Cowlitz, Upper Chehalis, South Fork Chehalis and Newaukum River Watersheds. The project works with landowners to survey, identify and control knotweed on properties adjacent to these river systems and other lands that serve as sources to spread knotweed.
Knotweed Project Areas, Lewis County
Statewide Knotweed Program, WSDA
Brazilian Elodea Management
Brazilian elodea is being managed at Plummer Lake, in Centralia where the infestation most likely got started from the disposal of an aquarium. The management goal is eradication of the plant within the lake. The control strategies have been adaptive over the years to reduce this noxious weed. Funding for the project has come from the Washington State Department of Ecology.