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Forest Service Crews Combat Invasive Weeds in Cle Elum Area; Volunteer Opportunities Available
Release Date: May 11, 2017
Contact(s): Holly Krake, Public Affairs Officer, 509-664-9314
Cle Elum, WA – This summer, crews will combat invasive non-native plant infestations on more than 700 acres on the Forest near Cle Elum. Starting in June, areas from Liberty to Gold Creek will be treated through a combination of efforts including hand pulling and limited, spot herbicide application.
“Invasive plants threaten important wildlife habitats, native plant communities and impact our local agricultural economies,” said Helen Lau, Cle Elum Ranger District Botanist. “This effort will limit the spread of more than a dozen invasive plants ranging from Meadow Knapweed to Canada Thistle.”
Planned treatment areas include; Table Mtn., Reecer Creek, Swauk Creek, Blue Creek, Liberty, Cougar and Lion Gulch, Teanaway, Manastash, Taneum, Upper Cle Elum Valley, Cooper River, French Cabin, Salmon la sac, Kachess, Box Canyon, Lost Lake, Cabin Creek, Stampede Pass, I-90 corridor and Gold Creek on selected roadsides, trailheads, restoration sites and rock/borrow pits.
“Our long term planning involves seeding with native grasses and plants in these areas to reduce the risk of reinfestation,” added Lau. “Additionally, herbicide areas will be clearly signed and treated with blue dye for easy public identification and safety.”
Additional information, maps, and volunteer opportunities for this project are available at the Cle Elum Ranger District at 803 W 2nd St., Cle Elum, WA or by calling 509-852-1100.
Dalmatian Toadflax is one of several invasive weeds that will be treated near Cle Elum, WA.
Credit: Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board/ Jennifer Andreas
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The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.