Knapweed

FWP Calls On Hunters To Be Weed-Aware

Noxious weeds, like knapweed, leafy spurge and Canada thistle are spreading across the Montana landscape and hunters in the state need to be aware of these silent invaders. FWP recommends that sportsmen:

• learn to identify noxious weeds in the areas they recreate in,
• check clothes, waders, pets and gear at the end of each trip to be sure they aren’t harboring stowaway weed seeds,
• avoid driving through or parking vehicles and trailers in areas infested with weeds,
• get into the habit of washing vehicles and trailers (especially the undercarriages) between outings,
• pull small infestations of noxious weeds that have not gone to seed and leave them in an undisturbed area with their roots exposed. If flowers or seeds are present, pull the plants, place them in a plastic bag, and pack them out for proper disposal,
• report large infestations to the landowners or to the county weed district.

Noxious weeds pose a serious economic and environmental threat to Montana. Every step taken now to protect critical habitat from noxious weed infestation helps ensure the future health of fish and wildlife populations.