National Invasive Species Awareness Week 2011.  Feb. 28-March 4, 2011. A week of activities, briefings, and events to highlight what is being done across the nation and around the world to stop and slow the spread of invasive species.  Check the NISAW website for more information.

 General Recommendations: 

• Find out what the most troublesome invasive species are in your local area, avoid spreading them, and try to control them if you have them on your property.
• The seeds of invasive plants can easily get transported in mud and dirt. Always remember to clean the dirt out of your hiking boots or off of your vehicle before you leave an area.
• Find out who the local contacts are in your area that can give guidance and identify unknown species.
• Don’t bring animals, plants and agricultural products (fruits, vegetables, soil) into the country illegally. Fill out customs declaration forms completely and honestly.
• Learn more. Become more educated and help spread the word about invasive species. Learn more about your local natural areas and the species in your yard. This will help you identify things that are not native and that might be invasive.
• Whenever possible, use only native plants that are appropriate for your region. Ask your local nursery to start carrying more native plants. Use exotic ornamentals only if you cannot find a native alternative and you are sure the ornamental is non-invasive.
• Clean construction machines before moving to a new job site. The mud and soil stuck to the machines can harbor seeds from invasive plants.
• Try to avoid disturbing natural areas whenever possible. Disturbing natural areas can increase their susceptibility to invasion by exotic species.
•  Help out in your community. Join a local native plant organization or native fish or wildlife group.

Noxious Weed Control programs are responsible for identifying and working with landowners in controlling noxious weeds within their counties. Currently, a State Weed List  is designated by the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board.

Each County Weed Board has the flexibility to address local weed control priorities. Developing annual county lists from the State Class A and B designates and then choosing from the rest of the State B & C lists can most effectively target weed invasions on a local level.

By controlling noxious weeds landowners protect life and health, improve habitat for fish and wildlife, maintain native plant communities and minimize the impacts to agriculture production. All state listed noxious weeds are non-native plants that have been introduced to Washington through human actions.

County field staff are available for community education programs and consultations with land owners to discuss weed management options including measures to prevent the establishment of noxious weeds on their own property.

The Mason County 2010 Weed List is here.