Weed Season Has Begun

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As the state’s wildflowers come to bloom, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks warns recreationists and landowners that there may be imposters in the midst of the old favorites like lupine, balsamroot and mountain bluebells.

"Increasingly some of the colorful displays blanketing our roadsides and meadows are the result of noxious weed infestations, not wildflowers," said Ron Aasheim, FWP Conservation Education administrator.

Land managers, whether state agencies such as FWP or private landowners, are waging an ongoing battle against noxious weeds that threaten native and other long established beneficial plants, Aasheim said. FWP alone spent more than $350,000 on weed management on FWP lands in 2001.

Spotted Knapweed is a good example of a non-native noxious weed. Knapweed out-competes most native plants, including species that wildlife rely upon for food. It forms dense stands that quickly become monocultures of knapweed. Knapweed’s deep taproots rob native vegetation of moisture and nutrients.

"Spotted Knapweed is one of several widespread noxious weeds that diminish our way of life and the health of wildlife in Montana," Aasheim said. Today Spotted Knapweed can be found in every county in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Washington. State estimates say Spotted Knapweed infests over 4 million acres in Montana alone.

Here are a few ways that recreationists and others can help make a difference:

Learn to identify noxious weeds that exist where you live and recreate. Stay on designated roads and trails. Avoid parking, walking or driving in weed-infected areas. Wash vehicles (especially the undercarriage) following any off-road trip. Remove weed seeds and plant materials from your gear and pets after being outdoors and before moving to another location. Feed horses weed-free hay before taking them to the backcountry.