It’s time to give you all an update about the noxious weed program here in Carson City!  Yes, we are in the so called “war against weeds,” and our months of strategic planning  (i.e.  data analysis and weed mapping) have prepared us to begin the attack against these exotic invaders…

Ok, so I thought you might like to see our personal protective equipment (PPE) intended for the days when we utilize chemical controls.  This week Doug and I decided that we ought to make sure everything  fits correctly.  As far as we can tell, it fits fairly well…and, we believe that the cowboy hardhat adds a nice touch!  It has definitely stimulated a number of laughs.  While we hope that we never have cause to be glad for the PPE, it is always better to have more protection than less.

Our first species to attack will be tall whitetop, otherwise known as perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium). This will possibly be followed by several thistle species.  Later, we plan to return to the sites where we mechanically or chemically removed the invaders to determine the success of our efforts.  If all goes as planned, we will be able to revegetate these areas with native collections!

If you see us around in our gear, don’t worry–we are not invaders from another planet! Rather, we are the agents removing the noxious weed invaders!

–Brittany

Carson City, NV

Bureau of Land Management