2021 June Weed Times PRESS

Weed Times MAGAZINE Volume 39, Issue 2/ June 2021 Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Week & MWCA Gun Raffle Drawings June 6 - June 12

Table of Contents 3. Editor Note 4. President’s Note 6. 6. What is a CWMA? 12. Women in Weeds 21. Member Spotlight 22. Milligan Canyon CWMA 24. Noxious Weeds & the Environment 25. Houndstongue Root Weevil 30. AV8-ORR Aviation 34. Back Injury: Working Safer 20. 24. 34. Photo Cover Karen Laitala MWCA Office Becky Kington The views expressed in newsletter articles and submissions are those of the Executive Director Respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the MWCA. P.O. Box 315 It is the purpose of this periodical to share a variety of viewpoints and Twin Bridges, MT 59754 information. We recommend that you contact your local weed professionals n…. Even teaching the next generationO!ffice 684 - 5590 for information in your particular circumstances. The Weed Times is published Cell 925 - 0708 quarterly and provided free to current members. [email protected] 2 Weed Times Magazine

Editor’s Hallelujah and amen, we finally received the million dollar storm in SW Note Montana. While it was a high of 35 during the board of directors’ call on May 20, it was nearing 80 in Ekalaka. Maybe instead of the ole saying of waiting 5 minutes for a weather change, it should be drive 400 miles for a season change. With the exception of in person meetings, most of the weed world is returning to normal. We have three area councils hosting in-person crew trainings, our 2021 Fall Weed Manager Training will be held in-person in Billings in October and our 2022 Annual Conference will also be in-person in Billings on January 31 - February 3. I have received a nice selection of calendar photos from our members and will be getting the voting out soon, which also means I need to start nailing down 2022 calendar orders. If you know what you want in advance, please let me know. They are $2 each for members. Sales of noxious weed field guides are picking up again as well. There is a great deal of internal work on the structure, staffing, policies, bylaws and governance of MWCA happening this spring. With that, the board has approved of membership changes, not only in pricing, but in types of membership. All members will be receiving a post card mailing for this, but it is also detailed on page 5. There have been additions and changes in MWCA awards for 2021 and there will be proposed bylaw changes for our membership in December. Also of big news is newly legislated Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Week for the first full week in June. We will be offering up a template of activities and resources for weed managers as well as our own planned activities for the week. For the MWCA, this includes our 2021 gun raffle. Sales have been going really well and it looks like we will definitely sell all 1,000 tickets for a week of drawing 8 guns. In the weed world, we have not gotten word that the Valley County and Flathead Coordinator positions have been filled. Many federal agency folks are still working from home as are many state employees. My understanding is that soon, Montana will roll out a new plan for state employees to choose to work from home or from the office. For now, many state offices remain largely empty. I am pretty sure a return to normal will not ever happen at many levels. I am looking forward to a little 406 windshield time this year. It will be nice to see faces and actually travel a little again. Becky Kington MWCA Executive Director 3

From the Office of the Pres: Important Dates Well things are starting to move in all kinds of directions….looks like June 6 - 12 spring has sprung and we keep getting teased with warm and even MT Invasive Species hot weather, but then it snows?? Oh well moisture is always welcome!! Awareness Week All committees and work groups are also in full swing trying to take June 21 - 23 care of MWCA business before everyone turns their attention to Montana Range Days those nasty “noxious weeds”!! The Finance and Governance Committees and the Implementation Work Group are working on Dillon several recommendations regarding MWCA direction, area council structure and budget needs for the Board of Directors. June 28 - 30 406 Grazing Academy Many, many thanks to Representative Marylin Marler and Ken Walsh for sponsoring and getting the “Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Ennis Week” legislation passed!! This will allow all weed professionals a chance to showcase the importance of weed management during July 18 - 23 the first week of June. What a great time to educate the people of MT Natural Resource Montana when plants are actively growing so they can see what they look like and the best possible control method for them. Youth Camp Greenough I would also like to thank Amy Adler and Pam Converse for all their help through this legislative session……they did a great job keeping September 11 up with all the legislative issues involving “noxious weeds”!!!! Weed Whackers Ball Not much else to say this time except, I hope you all have a safe and Wise River productive weed season….”noxious weed season” thought I should September 21 - 23 MWCA Board Retreat clarify….HAHAHA!! Dave Burch Emigrant September 28 -30 NAISMA Conference Missoula Oct 19 - 21 Fall Weed Manager Training Billings Oct 27 & 28 MWCA Board Meeting Billings Nov 15 MWCA Awards & Board Nominations Due Jan 31 - Feb 3, 2022 MWCA Annual Conference Billings 4 Weed Times Magazine

MWCA Membership Changes Coming Soon In March of 2021, the MWCA Board of Directors historically been a donor management software approved of new membership levels and new pricing program to Association Sphere, which is truly to go into effect on July 1, 2021. a membership management software. This new software will not only make it easier for Individual membership has not been increased since staff to manage membership, but users will 2008 and MWCA had a cumbersome list of different have a much easier time with renewals and levels of membership. management, including group memberships. The board approved of the following membership As part of the work MWCA is completing with levels and pricing. If you have renewed in 2021 the new strategic direction, there will be a already, your membership will not change until 2022. stronger focus on membership and membership However, you cannot renew early to avoid paying benefits. the extra membership increase. Membership will be renewed based on your current expiration date. A large part of the member benefits fall under the descriptions within the memberships Individual membership $40 outlined previously (most have to do with advertising with MWCA and additional Group membership - $300 publications). Silver business membership - $150 (includes Members will receive significant discounts on 2 memberships, listing in MWCA directory, Weed trainings and publications (usually averages Times magazine and MWCA website- MWCA $25 per event) creates the business sized card) Members are provided networking opportunities Gold business membership - $500 (includes 3 via website, social media and virtual trainings memberships, listing in MWCA directory, Weed and podcasts Times magazine and MWCA website and MWCA creates the ¼ page sized ad) This also includes Members receive a legislative voice through recognition at MWCA weed manager trainings and MWCA. in annual conference proceedings. Gold members will also receive 10 complementary calendars and 3 We are also working on additional benefits that directories. include partnering with other organizations and businesses as well as specific services In addition to new membership levels and pricing, available through MWCA. MWCA is changing up its CRM platform (customer relationship management) from Neon, which has Stay tuned, we are working hard to ensure that your membership to MWCA is of value to you! 5

CWMA, What does it mean? By Jesse Scott The Blackfoot Challenge is one of the largest and most prolific CWMA’s in Montana. Weed management is only one component of this large organization. The photo above is What You Need to Know About CWMA’s? of the Mannix Brothers Ranch in Ovando (from the Blackfoot Challenge Website). Across Montana and the while one landowner was diligently working to manage the weeds on United States, communities their property. are partnering together in the fight against noxious weeds Here in Montana Cooperative Weed Management Areas or CWMAs and other invasive species, for short, is heard quite a bit in the noxious weed world, but what working to prevent and exactly is a CWMA? In short, a CWMA is a partnership of federal, manage those species that are state, and local government agencies, tribes, individuals, and various a threat to our environment. interested groups that manage noxious weeds or invasive plants in a These groups have many defined area, and have the following six characteristics: names and acronyms including, Cooperative Weed • Work within a defined geographic area Management Areas (CWMAs), • Participation from a broad cross-section of stakeholders and Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs), land owners and Partnerships for Regional • Decision making though a steering committee Invasive Species Management • Long-term commitment to cooperation, preferably formalized (PRISMs). However, no matter the title given to these local through a partnership agreement groups and organizations, the • Have a strategic plan for addressing species of concern one thing each has in common • Coordinate across jurisdictional boundaries is that they all bring together landowners and managers to There is no official certification of CWMAs, however having all six develop a management plan characteristics helps to ensure the long-term viability of your CWMA, for action, and coordinate and and demonstrates commitment to potential funders. leverage resources for their area. CWMA partners work together to develop a comprehensive long- term management plan for their area that typically include things Cooperative Weed such as mapping and monitoring components, and integrated Management is not a new approaches to management. concept. State and county noxious weed experts have Continued on next page.... been working together with private landowners for years. Nevertheless, more often than not the scale of that cooperative effort was not spread out to include particular communities or watershed, but only a particular area of land ownership leaving some areas unmanaged and intensifying the noxious weed problem, 6 Weed Times Magazine

CWMA’s.... County Weed District is highly recommended as these entities can provide an invaluable service to the CWMA. It should be understood Many people may be asking throughout the CWMA and its partners, that shared problems require “Why should I participate in cooperative efforts. As we all know weeds know no boundaries, and a CWMA?”. Participation in by eliminating boundaries only then can a cooperative approach to the coordinated efforts for weed management succeed, and that combining resources can only noxious weed control increase result in the greater good for everyone. the overall effectiveness of It is also important to identify a “champion” to lead the cause noxious weed infestation during the organizing phase, this is someone who is excited about containment and management. cooperative weed management, someone who can lead and motivate In addition, by participating the group as it forms, and has the goals of the CWMA as their first in CWMAs, landowners and priority with the ability to communicate. agencies can share resources During the organizational phase of creating a CWMA, it is important with other members who are to establish a geographic boundary in which this CWMA operates. working towards similar goals Depending on the size of the CWMA the type of geographic boundary in noxious weed management. that is chosen will vary from political boundaries such as those of one Participation in a CWMA unifies or several counties, to ecological boundaries such as watersheds. the approach to outreach Large CWMAs may want to consider sub-dividing into smaller in the local communities by subunits such as basins, watersheds, or management zones. When raising awareness to the public setting the geographical boundaries of the CWMA, this is also a great and potential partners and time to give the CWMA a name that utilizes the geographical area it is participants, and the unification in, and can help identify the location of the CWMA. of a CWMA can also bring The one thing that all groups have in common is finances and influence to legislation or part of that responsibility is establishing a fiscal manager of the legislators. CWMA, to be eligible to receive grant funding and even donor funding. Depending on the location and size of the CWMA that As the awareness for CWMAs and noxious weeds increases so Continued on next page.... are the number of CWMAs, and the question of how does one Thank you founding member Helena Agri-Enterprises! join a CWMA or start a CWMA is being heard more and more. Joining a CWMA is as easy as contacting your local noxious weed expert and asking if there is a local CWMA in your area, and if so asking how do you join or participate. However, when there is no local CWMA and a need for one that age-old question of starting up a CWMA comes to mind. So, how does one start a successful CWMA? The first step would be to identify possible partners (federal, state, county, local municipalities, public utilities, etc.) around shared goals for noxious weed management, and gain support from the local community of landowners. Involving your local Conservation District, and 7

CWMA’s.... be selected to lead the CWMA. The steering committee in addition to an annual plan, should fiscal management can possibly be managed by also work to prepare a strategic plan to provide the CWMA itself. However, some may choose to long term direction that should include: utilize a county weed district, county conservation district, county extension, or possibly the Montana • A map of the CWMA Weed Control Association. Whichever entity that is • Inventory of noxious weeds chosen by the CWMA, it needs to have a federal • Rationale for determining priorities tax ID number, and possibly an agreement between • Long-term management goals and the entity and the CWMA regarding the fiscal responsibilities of each party. objectives • Appropriate integrated pest A successful CWMA includes many agencies and individuals all working towards a common goal, management tools and part of that success is holding public meetings. • Determination of management units These meetings should include all partners, major landowners and stakeholders within the Ideally the steering committee should become established boundaries of the CWMA. Including local the heart and soul of the CWMA. A successful government officials and local media outlets can also steering committee ensures that all committee be a way to increase awareness of the CWMA and members have opportunities to participate, its cause. delegates responsibility to project accountability, and ensures members should only be on the Public meetings increase the participation within the committee for a maximum of two years at a time CWMA and also the support it has. During a public to keep the committee and CWMA fresh. meeting or other meeting of the CWMA, there should be establishment of a steering committee. Now that the CWMA has a steering committee that is working to get the group up and running, The steering committee is responsible for organizing and partners have been identified now is the members, setting priorities, and accomplishing the time to start thinking about and developing goals that brought the group together. The steering agreements or MOUs. committee will also provide direction to the CWMA, establish operating procedures, locate opportunities, The purpose of these agreements is to facilitate and overall works to further the common the goal cooperation across jurisdictional boundaries and of the CWMA. Representation within the steering eliminate administrative barriers. All agreements committee itself should be broad enough to have should establish the legal authorities under representation from all interest types of the partners which the legal agreement is made, and of the CWMA. define the purpose of that agreement. These agreements between the CWMA and Once the steering committee is selected, the partners should identify each partner and their leadership of the “champion” who has led the responsibilities, the land area covered within the organizational efforts of the CWMA thus far should agreement, and items of agreement and who is come to an end, and a Chair and Vice-Chair should responsible for each item. Another agreement that should be considered is a “Hold Harmless Agreement”, which are forms for landowners or agencies to sign to allow others to come on to their property to do weed management work. Under these types of agreements workers, partners and landowners are “held harmless” in the event that a problem arises. These agreements also allow the sharing of workers, equipment, and the various other supplies needed for weed management. To ensure the success, longevity, and need Continued on next page.... 8 Weed Times Magazine

CWMA’s.... Another prolific CWMA in Montana dedicated solely to the management of noxious weeds is the Rocky for the CWMA there should be two types of plans in place, a strategic management plan and an Mountain Front Weed Roundtable whose land mass annual operating plan. The strategic management is significant. plan clearly defines the long-term objectives and priorities of the CWMA in one cohesive document noxious weeds within the CWMA boundary. that is reviewed every three to five years and Your CWMA should also be participating in revised for relevancy. A strategic management plan monitoring of not only the groups actions and should include an accurate map of the CWMA, results, but also the monitoring of projects so an inventory and a map of known priority noxious you can show how the CWMA is successfully weed infestations, responsibilities of noxious weed accomplishing goals to all that is involved. management, criteria for prioritization of noxious Celebration of those monitored successes weed management activities, and the control should also be a part of your plan, as it can techniques and resources available to the CWMA. gain positive media attention. An annual operating plan identified annual priorities A CWMA can benefit any community, as it and associated work projects, and has to be in place heightens awareness, increases knowledge, before any CWMA activity for the year happens. and strengthens relationships. Through Annual operating plans should include annual facilitating the cooperation and empowerment projects for the year, expected in-kind contributions, of local citizens and partners, CWMAs can necessary funding, personnel needed, and in harness creativity and bring new energy to general will serve as the basis for outside grant invasive plant management efforts not only in requests and fundraising. Montana, but across the United States. Once your CWMA is organized and ready to hit the ** Editor’s note, MWCA does profile CWMA’s that have ground running it is important to keep in mind that submitted information on their website. You can find out while the boots on the ground control efforts in the more about these organizations at www.mtweed.org form of cooperative spray days, or volunteers coming together for a cooperative weed pull are all important And if you are involved in a CWMA, please contact to the success of the CWMA, success and longevity Becky to add your information to the website. of the group depends on its involvement with various activity types. Education being one of the most 9 essential activities of a CWMA. Unlike those who are passionate about noxious weeds, not everyone may understand the negative impacts that result from the spread of noxious weeds. As a CWMA it is vital to support and promote local, state, and federal noxious weed awareness type of events, as well as community outreach and education throughout the year through classes on weed identification for landowners and land managers, or the development of educational materials on noxious weeds within the CWMA. Prevention should also be a focus of the CWMA, that could include partnering with the Montana Noxious Weed Education Campaign to place a boot brush station at an entry point to a natural area, or setting up an equipment washing station during hunting season. All members of the CWMA should be trained on the importance of early detection and rapid response to help mitigate the disastrous impacts of new

More CMhDaAnge for 5/19/2021 Gov. Gianforte Taps Mike Foster to Lead ARPA Program Gov. Gianforte Taps Mike Foster to Lead ARPA Program Thursday, May 13, 2021/Categories: Governor's Office, Montana.gov/Tags: HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today appointed Mike Foster, the director of the Montana Department of Agriculture, to lead the state’s program responsible for allocating federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). “A proven, trusted leader, Mike will direct the state’s ARPA program to meet our immediate and long-term needs,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Mike will ensure we spend these funds responsibly to help guide us through the pandemic and invest in long-term critical infrastructure projects.” Working with state agencies and ARPA commissions, Foster will recommend to the governor how to distribute over $1.5 billion in federal funds. The governor will allocate the funds in compliance with ARPA and House Bill 632. “I was honored when Governor Gianforte asked me to serve in his Cabinet as the director of the Department of Agriculture, and I am honored again that he has named me to take on this new position,” ARPA program director Mike Foster said. “Our team is excited to work hard and collaborate with others to maximize the federal funds for the people and economy of Montana.” Prior to joining the Gianforte administration, Foster served as state executive director of the Montana USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). As executive director, Foster helped Montana producers overcome difficult challenges – including drought, wildfires, trade barriers, and the pandemic – through FSA support. Christy Clark, deputy director of the Department of Agriculture, will assume the role of acting director for the department. The governor also appointed Liane Taylor, director of boards and appointments in the governor’s office, to manage outreach related to the state’s ARPA program. Taylor will work with Foster in the Office of Budget and Program Planning. ### Print Number of views (545)/Comments (0) Want to help make a difference while you shop in the Amazon app, at no extra cost to you? Simply follow the instructions below to select “Montana Weed Control Association Inc” as your charity and activate AmazonSmile in the app. They’ll donate a portion of your eligible mobile app purchases to us. How it works: 1. Open the Amazon app on your phone 2. Select the main menu (=) & tap on “AmazonSmile” within Programs & Features 3. Select “Montana Weed Control Association Inc” as your charity 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate AmazonSmile in the mobile app 10 Weed Times Magazine

MONTANA NOXIOUS WEED AWARENESS WEEK Come Join Us! 2021 WEED PULL & TRAILHEAD CLEAN-UP Wednesday, June 9th from 2-4 p.m. Meet at the Old Shooting Range Trailhead - 1782 Davis Gulch Road, Helena Learn about: Noxious Weeds & Weed Identification Hand Sprayer Calibration Biocontrol Use Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage Certified Weed Free Materials Adopt A Trailhead  Bring your gloves & weeding tools  Bags, water, prizes and root beer floats provided! Contact MDA at 444-3140 for more information TIM JOHANNESEN 800-658-5457 [email protected] 11

Women in Weeds “In 2011, 12 women held county weed coordinator positions and in ten short years, women now hold 21 county weed coordinator positions. This is just county weed coordinators, and does not include the changes in state and federal and nonprofit organizations. “ - Becky Kington May 18, 2021 weed range management with that I was working to control and By Becky Kington the Forest Service.” identify weeds on my family’s All photos by Jesse Scott ranch since junior high and been “15 years in the noxious and a county weed coordinator for You may wonder at this title, invasive weed industry. I started 17 years.” “Women in Weeds” but with out working in noxious weed over 40% of our industry now management during college “I’ve been managing noxious occupied by women, I wanted working for the weed science weeds professionally for 11 to do a little research into department at NC State before years and just recently became this fairly recent movement. moving to Montana.” the county weed coordinator.” I asked several lady weed managers to weigh in on some “I have worked in noxious weed “I have been in noxious weed basic questions, none perhaps management for 26.5 years management since 2001 and more important than, “why and I was hired as a secretary/ have been the weed coordinator do you think so many women sprayer, then a summer for 3 years and the assistant are moving into this field?” I seasonal and shared with the coordinator for a long time received 14 responses back and road department to work on before!” I hope you will find some of their mapping in the winter months. answers as interesting as I did. I’ve been a county weed “I started in noxious weed coordinator for 18 years.” management at the age of 15, How long have you been involved in helping my dad with his spray Noxious Weed Management and how “3 years as a seasonal sprayer, business in western Montana. long as a county or agency weed 2 or 3 years as a secretary to I mapped weeds for DNRC, coordinator? the weed district, then 21 years worked for Sanders County on as administrator to an NPO.” the Rusk Skeleton Weed Task “8 years as coordinator and 1.5 Force, transferred to MSU to years as assistant coordinator.” “Assistant weed coordinator for study plant science, then went to 14 years.” work for the Sun Ranch for two “10 years privately and then summers as their noxious weed 3 years as a county weed “I’ve officially been in the weed coordinators and 7+ months in world for 20 years and before Continued on next page.... 12 Weed Times Magazine

Technology and equipment has really changed - to go from dragging hose outside a weed truck to spray county barrow pits to driving side by sides or even flying a drone now. There is also the difficulty in finding seasonals. 20 years ago, you could hire teachers on summer break and it was a pretty decent paying job. Now, many counties can’t offer enough to entice people to do this type of work. I think this may be the biggest challenge facing our industry today.” “Definitely more women involved now, which is great to see. I recall the MWCA conference from a few years ago when Dr. Pete Faye received the Barbara Mullin Lifetime Achievement Award (note that MWCA”s lifetime achievement award is in honor of one of the pioneering women in our field). As he accepted his award and looked across the audience, he commented how pleased he was to see so many women in the audience and that when he was involved with the organization, it was mostly men. I think this has been really good for us women, that we have had women like Barb Mullin to establish a standard and then this growing network of talented women to learn from and provide support.” control specialist. I then partnered with my dad and “Probably the divisiveness around the management sprayed in Central Montana and when he retired, of aquatic invasive plants as they were detected in I took over his business. I have been a County Montana waters, the availability of drones that are Weed Coordinator going on 3 years.” equipped to apply herbicides and seed (and the companies that have emerged to be able to utilize “I have been a Weed Coordinator now for 11 them), and the advances in biological control and years.” invasive annual grass tools.” “24 years (teaching, research, and training “The large amount of new invasive plants and graduate students)” aquatics! The change in the weather and the huge influx of people moving into Montana.” “9 years as weed coordinator, 4 years as administrative assistant and 11 years with Continued on next page.... extension” If you have been involved in your position for 10 or more years, what are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the weed world? “A lot more women involved in this industry. It doesn’t seem that long ago that other than seasonal sprayers, almost every county weed district coordinator position and every agency weed manager position was held by men. Also the regulations and requirements are so much stricter. 13

Women in Weeds.... pencils just to “Some of the bigger changes identify if a species I have seen in the last 8 years “I think turnover is a challenge. was present, have been the amount of Sometimes it is a good thing, absent or unknown retirements or folks who have sometimes a bad thing…you to now having resigned. Which has opened up spend a lot of time developing EDDMapS West the door for more women to step a relationship/trust with people as an electronic into these positions.” and when they leave that platform with real relationship doesn’t always time and being able Why did you want to become follow with a new person so that to collect a large involved in noxious weed relationship needs to be built amount of data management? again.” about your site situation.” “I’ve always been interested in “It’s exciting to see the number plants and was lucky enough of women in weed positions “I have noticed to meet the right people at the increase. There was barely a over my 15-year right time who turned me on to handful when I first started in the career more invasive plants. I was always weed world. There has been an women in the interested in using science to increase in the amount of safety industry over the solve problems as well, and protocols in place. In all aspects, last 5 years for noxious weed management from driving to how we complete sure. When I began seemed like a good combination tasks, to the organization of the at NC State, weed of my interest in plants and shop itself.” science and weed management wanting my science to make a was definitely a man’s world difference.” “There is more stress on that seemed pretty difficult for alternate management, less on a woman to get her foot in the “I wanted to work in the plant/ herbicide. Also education has door. I know that it made me vegetative community and/or become huge.” work harder and more intense conservation and restoration- to be the best I could and make though to be honest, I wanted “I think some of the biggest a name for myself. It has been changes has come in the awesome to watch women come Continued on next page.... form of technology. Mapping/ into this industry and be leaders inventorying weeds has made and watch the gender gap huge strides, going from section- basically dissolve over the last based mapping and colored decade.” Thank you Legacy Member, Monture Creek! 14 Weed Times Magazine

Women in Weeds.... science department at NC State, teacher looking for summer and as they say, the rest is work and turned into a full- to work with native plants as history because I fell in love with time administrator for the last my focus. A means to an end weed management and learning 15 years. It is so true though, (removing threats to native and anything and everything I could the saying: Once a weedie desirable plants) and a position about it. Now, some therapist always a weedie. I see them that became available to me….” may say that it was seeded in EVERYWHERE!” me years ago growing up on “I got started with invasive plants a tobacco farm and we did a What do you like most about your while working for the U of NE lot of physical labor removing job? in the wetlands there. When I weeds from the field and that came back to MT, I saw some of could have been the root of a “I enjoy being out in the field the same invasive weeds here deep hatred for weeds, but who spraying weeds. Its enjoyable and was surprised! I also grew knows!” to meet the landowners and up here and my parents had help them with their weeds. I always been concerned with “Range and private land grazing enjoy learning how to make a weeds and their effects to the health improvement.” job or situation better and more land.” efficient. I love to go collect “It was an accident. I needed a and release bugs. I enjoy doing “Started as a summer job after job, I had helped Jerry Weber maintenance on the equipment. high school and got hooked!” out one summer and now, here There is a sense of pride of I am!” doing it yourself and being a girl “I have been involved in who can do it. I really enjoy the agriculture my entire life, “You could almost say noxious days that the crew and I get stuff and have always been a weeds run in my blood, thanks done and there were no major scientist at heart. Through my Dad!” issues.” collective career, research and education experiences, I “I was born and raised on “I like the interaction with the arrived here. I think noxious a ranch, so agriculture is in people and helping them learn weed management is an my blood. Noxious weed more, then helping fix their important industry that protects management is imperative for a problems.” vital ecosystem function and healthy ecosystem and it is very services.” rewarding to see positive results “I love interacting with the on treated areas.” landowners, educating them and “I have been involved with of course, spraying.” noxious weeds my whole life. “I looked at the job as a new It seemed fitting when I got challenge. I wanted to find a “I LOVE my job….but my most my degree in abused land good paying job that was local. favorite is the people! Meeting reclamation to carry that on I used to work for the Corp of and getting to know landowners into the rehabilitation of lands Engineers and weeds were an and helping them with their land disturbed with noxious weeds.” issue on Fort Peck. My friend management practices always had a real passion for controlling makes my heart happy.” “At the time I was hired, I was weeds and was the weed fighter just looking for a job. Since then, for the Corp. You could say “I love interacting with people, noxious weed management has she set the stage for being a educating them on why weed become a passion that I am weed fighter and a woman in control is important and different able to share with others, I can that position. Then the weed approaches to control. I also give back to my community by coordinator at the time got sick love that I get to spend time making the landscape healthier and I had to step in and learn outdoors in beautiful Montana.” for the next generation.” very quickly how to do this job – it was a sink or swim situation “Education.” “Noxious weed management for sure.” kinda fell into my lap during Continued on next page.... college. I took a job in the weed “I fell into it. I started out as a 15

Women in Weeds.... learn new skills.” “Juggling all the programs, resources, events, staff, board, “The improvement of treated “The weed control! I enjoy budgets, and little mini projects areas we are working on, and seeing grass and trees where that crop up daily, etc. with very the additional resources of once there was mostly invasive little help.” biological agents available to plants.” land managers.” “Some days-just being a female “Working with landowners and weed coordinator! Some people “Working with the landowners. I land managers and having the seem to think a female doesn’t have met some amazing people ability to help them financially know anything!” in the 26 years I have worked for and with other resources.” the county. This county is rich “Thinking outside the box and in history and I have been lucky “Creating successful educational remember to look at things enough to be able to work with events and having folks say from a different perspective. people who have worked hard to how much they enjoyed learning Just because that is how we’ve preserve that history and pass it and how valuable it is for them. always done it, doesn’t mean on to the next generation.” I also get a charge out of public that is the way it has to be speaking….the larger the group, done.” “I love the variety. It’s such the better!” a mix of sociology, biology, “I think the most challenging ecology, chemistry, biochemistry, What is the most challenging aspect aspect of any job, and of life in education, physical aspects of your job? general, is to remain adaptable. and every day Montana natural Times like these (COVID) have beauty.” “Basically being a one-person reminded us all that we don’t coordinator in a large acre really ever know what the future “I love the ability to be in the county, including three national holds.” field for at least half of the forests, the most BLM land of year! I also really like working any county in the west and lots “The biggest challenges for me with landowners and building of state ground (We are 49% is being the lone employee for relationships with folks. I also public land).” the department, some days I really like challenging myself to need a couple of me. Summers are busy and without office staff, Thank you Andy Orr, MWCA Legacy Member it’s difficult to be out in the field and still get office things done in a timely manner.” “Figuring out how to manage leafy spurge along the river.” “When I moved here, the most challenging part of my job was being a female running a weed district that had been run by men, and trying to work with landowners who were sure this gal knew nothing about weeds. Now that we are over that hurdle, the most challenging part of the job, aside from not finding enough summer help and trying to be 10 places at once, is working Continued on next page.... 16 Weed Times Magazine

Women in Weeds.... Super complicated things I will “My weed board is all male and get help, but the commissioners when it comes to the board, with landowners to change still don’t believe in/trust my I don’t necessarily have any their old fashioned thinking and ability/skills or my knowledge challenges with them. They ways when it comes to weed to do what needs to be done. may tell you there are some management on their land.” The weed department here is challenges with me when it the “red headed stepchild” of comes to being outspoken and “Whiny landowners.” the county compared to say, determined. I do find it is hard the sheriff or road department. being an outspoken, driven “There are always challenges I still haven’t figured out if this female when working more so to every job, but the one I’ve is because of the department with the male leaders of our struggled with regularly is the or because of my role as weed county….more so than the weed acceptance that I have no coordinator?” board.” control over the weather. We have a designated time to “When I first came, the board “The weed board is made up of get our work done and if the was all male with the exception 4 men…3 board members and weather cooperates and we get of my extension agent who one county commissioner. I feel our crews hired on time, then would attend the meetings with very fortunate to have a positive our work becomes easier.” me to stay in touch and help relationship with the board and me do my job. In the last 2 or commissioners in my county. “Working in a community such 3 years, we have gained one They have shown me trust, as mine, I have encountered female board member. I don’t support and given me guidance.” people who think my gender recall it being a problem having makes my knowledge less all male board members. They “My weed board is entirely male valuable.” all come from a background and there are certain board where wives and families members who refuse to make “Both staffing and non- worked just as hard as men. eye contact, or listen when I talk. compliance is very challenging.” Therefore it made it easy to work It’s infuriating to participate in a with them.” meeting with such people and it “For me, one of the harder aspects of the job is keeping Continued on next page.... a schedule. Many folks don’t understand that with the weather constantly changing your plans, it makes it tough to keep a plan. After about 4 – 5 years, I finally started to feel comfortable enough to start making changes to the job for the better. In the last 3 years, I have finally felt comfortable enough to make changes for the betterment of the program and for my crew.” Is your county weed board primarily male? If so, do you find any particular challenges to being a female? “My weed board is all male Thank you Founding Member, Bayer! and so are my commissioners. There are times when I surprise them as I am the mechanic a good portion of the time as well. 17

Women in Weeds.... decisions.” boards specifically, but I can speak to other professional makes accomplishing our goals “We have one female board interactions where there are challenging.” member and 3 male board more men than women in members. I find that they are the room. To me the most “Yes, my board is all male and eager and willing to hear my challenging part isn’t conducting have been in the 14 years I’ve ideas, excited about what I have the business side of things, but been here. No, I don’t find any to offer and they are supportive rather how to socialize and have challenges being a female in my in all aspects.” small talk. I find that harder county.” to do with men than women, “Of a 7-member board, I have and I wonder if they feel the “All of my board members a single female board member. same about me? I’m always are male and the secretary My board is very supportive and wondering if they’re wondering is female. There are no I really don’t find being female what to talk to me about. Isn’t challenges. I have an excellent, a challenge, especially with the that kind of funny?” open minded board. They are board. I couldn’t ask for a better very supportive of my input and board.” Why do you feel that female decisions.” weed managers are becoming so “Yes my board is all male. The prevalent in Montana? “My weed board is all male and board doesn’t understand why to my knowledge, our county I have to work in the winter and “I think more women are now has not ever had a female board sometimes don’t feel I work graduating with natural resource member. When a new board very hard in the warm weather and/or science-based college members comes on board, there because “all you have to do is degrees and therefore more is sometimes something they sit in a vehicle and drive all day!” of them are out in the pool of are unhappy about and they are They feel spraying with an ATV applicants. What I can’t figure going to fix it. Then you spend is just riding around. They have out is why more men don’t time educating the members to never rode around with me or seem to be applying for these what their role and responsibility anything.” positions?” is. I have been extremely lucky to have one member who has “I have one female board “I see more women in been on the board for over 30 member and four men and no, I environmental sciences and years. And he is my stabilization. feel no gender bias or pressure.” natural resource management I feel extremely lucky that across the board, from graduate my board trusts me and has “I can’t speak to county weed given me the leeway to make Continued on next page.... 18 Weed Times Magazine

Women in Weeds.... “There are more women However, I think it goes back studying and working STEM to programs we offer youth in students to professionals fields all the time. I think women relation to range science and including both weed managers are natural multi-taskers and this weed science. I think through and extension agricultural work environment, especially in FFA, 4-H, and even programs agents. It seems barriers women small counties like mine, means that county weed districts faced in the past are shrinking, you wear a lot of hats as the have had for youth education not entirely going away, but weed coordinator.” (including kids working for weed shrinking. And I think that has districts seasonally), as well allowed women to see different “Montana is a leader in Noxious as science classes in schools options for their lives instead of Weed Management and I think have helped garner an interest following the social norms they women can bring a lot to the in range and weed science and once did. For example, getting table.” find themselves in jobs after high married and raising children. school and college that involve I like to think that women are “I think we have taken an weed management.” seeing other women in fields aggressive step in the interest of once dominated by men makes land management. You also see “The whole world is changing it seem more normal and an increase in female positions when it comes to women doing therefore safer for those women in the Forest Service, USDA, jobs that were initially perceived to pursue that field. So I think bio control Research and NRCS to be men’s jobs.” the trend will continue. Thanks fields.” to those pioneering women who “I think there is more women got the ball rolling for the rest of “I feel it is still a “money-thing” stepping into these roles simply us!” Most counties do not pay a very for the fact that positions are big wage to their coordinators starting to open up and are “No idea – a complex question and it seems women are still providing the opportunity for that would require data to paying that price.” females to take them. The answer correctly.” biggest thing that makes it “I really don’t know the reason easier for many women to take “I think it is because we are we are taking over a field like these roles over is that there is good at noticing different plants this. I can say that women in this an attention to detail and the and a lot of men don’t like the industry have been amazing. amount of paperwork that is preciseness of spraying. I think The willingness to foster new required to do these jobs. I think females are more careful of coordinators and share their 15 – 20 years ago, if you did spray management, mixing, etc. knowledge and insight is not know how to mechanic or fix I feel we (i.e. women) have more amazing. I commented to my broken pumps or weld, it would patience with people and lastly, family when I first started that have been very discouraging men just aren’t applying.” I had never felt so welcomed for females to even apply. and supported in any endeavor Now however, many tasks for “Honestly, I don’t think it is only before.” weed coordinator positions that there is an increase in are based on computer skills, female weed managers, I think “In today’s world, more and grant writing, secretarial skills, if you were to look at different more women are working. A keeping accurate records and professions, you would see an weed coordinator’s position is a an itinerary of your daily tasks. increase in females in those great supplemental income for a I feel women have a tendency roles. Personally, I think that a family and in some counties, the to be better with these required lot of women are choosing to position is part time, so that can skills.” have families later in life, or not provide flexibility for families with at all so they are in the work young children.” Final thoughts regarding this topic: force. I also think that more women with families are working “I think over all the increase in “There will always be those because in today’s economy, females in ag-related industries people who judge your job families can rarely make it on a and science plays a part. single salary.” Continued on next page.... 19

Women in Weeds.... performance and how much you know based on gender or age. If someone else says the exact same thing as you, and those factors I just mentioned play into it, then that person may win over you. Accept it, learn from it and become stronger because of it. I like to remember the mantra: you are braver than you believe, stronger than you feel and smarter than you think.” “As women, we need to keep up the work we are doing, but also work to help make the profession more diverse and inclusive to all. No one gender or race is superior to anyone else in this industry and we need to work together in unity to make sure that we are all the best we can be and set the bar high for the future of weed management for those coming in!” “I am very appreciative of the male role models in our industry and am thankful to be respected by them. Many of these men have been amazing role models in helping me build the program I have.” “I feel we take the health of our lands to the next level. Thinking of the overall results long term, not just this season or next. We are all passionate about our responsibilities.” “There are so many women in this industry and others like it who are so confident, caring and fantastic at their jobs. I admire all of these women and our male colleagues who keep the field of agriculture and natural resources moving forward in Montana and across the world.” “Personally, I have been extremely fortunate to have amazing mentors who are both male and female in the weed world. All of those mentors helped to shape me into the weed manager I am today. It is 2021 for crying out loud….if a girl wants to be a diesel mechanic, so be it and if a boy wants to be a nanny…then so be it.” “It has been challenging at times, getting the respect from people. I have learned to fix things that I never thought I could! I have learned a lot and had the opportunity to meet some really good people!” “No one industry is the same as it was 15 or 20 years ago. Technology, demographics, culture, climate, all of it has changed a LOT. More females in the workplace is just one of those many changes we are seeing.” 20 Weed Times Magazine

Member Spotlight: Celestine Duncan At the risk of dating you, there are many younger and/or new weed managers who may not know that you were Montana’s first state weed coordinator for MDA. Can you talk a little about how that came about back in the day? I started a career in invasive plant management in 1983 as a graduate student working on spotted knapweed and leafy spurge under Dr. Pete Fay at Montana State University. At that time there was increasing awareness and concern from agricultural producers about the spread of noxious weeds on rangeland and natural areas. Biological control agents were only in the screening and early rearing stages, so both spurge and knapweed were spreading rapidly. In 1985 I completed my graduate program in Agronomy (Weed Science), and started a position as the first State Weed Coordinator with Montana Department of Agriculture. This was a new position approved by the Montana Legislature and funded directly with general fund revenue. In 1985 the Legislature also passed the Noxious Weed Trust Fund Act to assist land managers with weed management efforts. The support and financial backing of the Legislature were huge steps forward for the weed program in Montana, and helped galvanize partnerships between weed districts, federal and state agencies, private entities and universities. You have always been very passionate about the weed cause, since you’ve retired, in what ways are you still a “weedie”? Once a weedie always a weedie! I still do a bit of consulting work, and volunteer with private and public land managers on invasive plant management and inventory. I also spend a lot more time managing noxious weeds on our own property. I have ”zero” tolerance for noxious weeds on our acreage, so it’s a real challenge and commitment of time and energy………and seems there are always new weeds establishing. I have nothing but respect for public and private land managers that have to manage invasive plants on thousands of acres! In your opinion, what is the worst of all of our state listed noxious weeds? Why? I think they are all bad! It depends where you live in the state, type of land (forest/grassland/riparian) and management objectives. The ones I’m most concerned about are Russian olive and saltcedar because of their ecological impact and long-term ecosystem change to riparian areas. The rate of spread of Russian olive in Montana is very rapid, and by the time most people recognize it as a problem, management options are limited by time and money. On grassland sites, annual grasses (ventenata and cheatgrass), houndstongue, toadflax, knapweeds, and leafy spurge continue to spread. Although biological agents are available for several of these weeds, they still have an ecological impact on native grasslands, and cost natural area managers and agricultural producers a significant amount of time and money to control. Continued on page 27... 21

CWMA Spotlight MILLIGAN CANYON CWMA CWMA Profile Milligan Canyon CWMA By Jill Allen, Jefferson County Weed Coordinator Photos by: Jill Allen & Jessica Franklin Milligan Creek and Milligan Canyon Road cut through high limestone hills on a state section of land. This particular area is a favorite spot for geologists, recreationalists, wildlife and RATTLESNAKES! Milligan Creek runs for approximately 5 miles from I-90 to South of Highway 287, ultimately feeding the Jefferson River. The creek runs primarily dry much of the year but carries large volumes of water during run-off in the spring months. Due to multiple factors such as increased motorized vehicle and recreation traffic, poor grazing practices, and increased residential construction the invasive weed species continue to spread across property boundaries. The Milligan Canyon Cooperative Weed Management Area began in the fall of 2019 when weed coordinators Jessica Bushnell, Jill Allen and Jessica Franklin met with landowners in the area to put together a plan of action. The stakeholders in the Milligan Canyon Cooperative Weed Management Area are eager to be good stewards to the land and to preserve Mother Nature’s majestic beauty. The group appointed a project coordinator, and their first order of business was to map the area and start gathering information to apply for financial assistance for herbicide application thru the MT Noxious Weed Trust Fund Grant program. The project area is approximately 25,487 acres with 1348 acres of known weed infestations. The CWMA includes two county weed districts, federal and state landowners plus multiple private landowners. This project requires that private landowners, federal and state agencies, and county personnel work together cooperatively. The partners agree to improve noxious weed control in the project area by planning and executing a ground and aerial commercial spray. Follow-up monitoring will continue in 2021 and beyond. Covid restriction did not allow for the land managers to gather together but it certainly didn’t hinder the effort each independent landowner made in the 2020 field season. To promote weed awareness and education the cooperators are planning to host an education and cooperative weed management day during the 2021 season. The goal of the weed management participants and partners is to expand the area and encourage other landowGrneetarsDiigne,tNhWe TaFreGaratnot Cjuomordpinoantorbvoisaitrsdthaengdrapnatrptriocjiepcat taereian weed management efforts. The Jefferson River is the southern boundary of the weed management area. 22 Weed Times Magazine

Greta Dige, NWTF Grant Coordinator visits the grant project area Whitetop infestation along ditch Wbahniktestcorpeaintefeustnaiqtiuoen maloannaggdeimtchenbtacnhkasllcernegaetes.unique management challenges. The Jefferson River is the southern boundary of the weed management area. Searching for biological control Searching for biological control agents and rust site possibilitieLasndowner education…. Even teaching the next gen agents and rust site possibilities Landowner education…. Even teaching the next generation! A pupper full of houndstongue 23

Noxious Weeds and the be the site of a scientist’s Environment: A Bigger Picture research project, she noticed that while years earlier By Karen Laitala the lake had been largely Powell County Weed Coordinator vegetation free, it was now overtaken by hydrilla. Susan Wilde, a professor of aquatic science at the University of Although anyone who knows me knows that I’m a Georgia, began to wonder if “certifiable” botany and native plants nerd, I love the eagle deaths were related everything nature. In particular, I share a love of birds to the new plant’s presence with one of my sisters. On a trip together one October, and started investigating. we went to a wild bird rescue facility (Vermont Institute of Natural Science) to attend one program, and ended Wilde and an international up staying all day, much to our mutual delight. We often send each team of researchers from other articles, pictures, and messages about birds back and forth Germany, the Czech from our homes in Montana and Massachusetts. Republic and the United Recently my sister sent me an article titled, “Scientists Finally Identify States discovered that the a Deadly Toxin That’s Been Killing Birds”. As I dove into the Science toxin produced on the leaves (or Science Magazine) journal article, I was surprised to discover of hydrilla was then eaten by that the culprit has been traced back to a previously unknown herbivorous birds which once cyanobacteria produced on the leaves of the invasive aquatic plant poisoned became easy prey hydrilla. As many of us are aware, cyanobacteria, also called blue- to bald eagles who were in green algae, are known for creating potentially toxic blooms that turn poisoned. affect water bodies across Montana, including in the nearby Nevada Creek watershed. While not all varieties are harmful, some can Also of concern is whether produce dangerous cyanotoxins that are harmful to people and pets. or not humans that consume For more than 25 years, the cause of death of thousands of eagles infected waterfowl can be and other birds across the Southern United States remained a affected. Robert Sargent, mystery. When 17 bald eagles died on a reservoir that happened to a program manager for the Georgia Department of Thank you Legacy Member, Wright Company! Natural Resources points out that while the eagle deaths are alarming, they indicate a much larger problem. “Whenever we see illnesses or deaths of species at the top of the food chain, it’s a Continued on page 26... 24 Weed Times Magazine

MSU Extension Invasive Plants Monthly Weed Post, April 2021 Houndstongue Root Weevil (Mogulones crucifer) (By Melissa Maggio, Montana Biocontrol Coordination Project, [email protected]) Background The houndstongue root weevil was approved for release in Canada in the late 1990s, where it has effectively suppressed houndstongue infestations. However, due to perceived risks to non-target plants, it is not currently an approved biocontrol agent in the U.S. Nevertheless, the weevil has made its way into Montana (see map). Regardless of its presence in Montana, it is illegal to aid in its movement. Identification and Biology To identify the weevil’s presence in an area, look for adults on plants (spring and fall), larvae in roots (summer) and feeding damage on leaves (spring – fall). Adult weevils are 2-3 mm long and brown with a white cross on their backs (top photo). Larvae are 1-4 mm long, white with a brown head and curl in a C-shape in the roots (middle photo). Feeding damage on leaves results in circular or oval holes (bottom photo). Biology In spring adult weevils emerge from the soil where they overwinter. From spring to early summer, weevils feed on houndstongue leaves, mate and lay eggs at the base of the leaves. The larvae inflict the most significant damage by feeding on the roots. This feeding damage can result in plant death, prevention of flowering or a reduction in seed production. Larvae emerge from the roots to complete their life cycle in the soil. New adults emerge in late summer and early fall to feed on houndstongue foliage before overwintering in the soil. Impacts This weevil has been very effective at reducing houndstongue infestations in Canada and in the portions of the U.S. where it has naturally migrated. At sites where the weevil has been present for multiple years, houndstongue is rare or absent. Feeding on native plants in the same family as houndstongue has been documented in both Canada and the U.S., but to date this non-target attack seems minor, sporadic and temporary. The biggest concern is its potential impact to federally listed plant species. Current Status While the weevil is not currently approved as a biocontrol agent in the U.S., there is ongoing research to help inform the regulatory approval process. Research includes chemical ecology, continued lab and field cage tests, and a monitoring project occurring in Montana, Washington, and Idaho looking for impacts to plant species other than houndstongue in areas that the weevil has moved into naturally. Until approved, this weevil will continue to be considered an agricultural pest and, as such, cannot be intentionally moved. 25

Noxious Weeds and the environment... Hydrilla red flag for the potential health third mussel-fouled watercraft down the drain, as larval of the environment”, he stated. intercepted in Montana this bodies that are not visible year. State Fish, Wildlife, & to the naked eye could be It is thought that hydrilla was Parks officials have identified present in the water. initially released in the US in inspection stations as the first the 1950’s when the popular line of defense in preventing We, as residents, play an aquarium plant was dumped into the movement of all types of important role in efforts to a Florida waterway. Since that aquatic invasive species and control aquatic invasive time, hydrilla has become one of the huge negative impacts species. the most destructive freshwater these exotics can have on aquatic weeds in the country, Montana waterways. Invasive Pet, fish, water garden and from lakes in Washington to mussels were also found in pond owners should never Wisconsin and the Carolinas. aquarium moss balls imported release aquatic plants or Watercraft Inspection Stations from Ukraine and distributed to animals into the wild, or began opening this month pet stores in Montana in early purchase prohibited species. across Montana. A boat heavily March of this year. FWP officials infested with zebra mussels are urging that tank water not Boaters, hunters, anglers, intercepted at Anaconda was the be emptied into water, including scuba divers and snorkelers, sea plane operators, and other recreationalists can protect Montana waters by following Clean Drain Dry laws. Remove visible organisms attached to or in recreational equipment (with hot water if available) and dispose of mud and vegetation away from water; drain compartments that hold water and remove plugs; dry equipment thoroughly. And, if you see oddly behaving or unusual numbers of deceased aquatic birds or birds of prey, report those sightings to our state wildlife agency. Thank you Founding Member, Corteva! 26 Weed Times Magazine

Celestine Duncan... Celestine (right) poses with a friend during a branding session. You’ve been in the industry each other for limited funds What are your hobbies these for a long time. What have and resources. We still share days? been some positive changes common goals. and/or challenges you’ve Its great to have more time witnessed within the You are a part-time for hiking, art work, killing my last 5 – 10 years? snowbird/resident(?) of New own weeds, biking, flying…and Mexico. Are you involved right now keeping track of a There are lots of positive in weed management down new pup. changes especially in there at all? availability and distribution Last meal, what would it be? of biological control agents Of course! I volunteer with a for key weeds, expansion couple of federal agencies on Liver! It would make checking of weed research (biology, managing saltcedar, and give out a better option than having impacts, and management), programs to garden clubs on to eat it! and education/outreach to invasive and poisonous plants. increase public awareness of Its still fun and interesting to invasive plants. Any program me, and I learn so much from has challenges and the these folks. weed management effort in Montana is no different. I miss the days when all partners worked closely together on common goals and objectives to manage invasive plants. We didn’t always agree, but we could work through differences to solve common problems. Invasive plants are a huge issue in Montana and the West, and we can’t spend time and money working against Thank you Founding Member, Nutrien! 27

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 5, 2021 CONTACT: Brooke Stroyke, Office of the Governor Chelsi Bay, Montana Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Trust Fund Grant Recipients Announced Over $2.1 million awarded for noxious weed management programs in Montana Helena, Mont. – Governor Gianforte and the Noxious Weed Management Advisory Council announced the recipients of over $2.1 million awarded through the Montana Noxious Weed Trust Fund grant program. Over 130 Montana counties, tribes, conservation districts, local communities, and educators were awarded funds to develop and implement noxious weed management programs across Montana. “Noxious weeds pose a major threat to the lands we cherish here in Montana,” said Governor Greg Gianforte. “These grants provide groups across the state with the resources they need to continue protecting against the spread of noxious weeds and I am looking forward to seeing their progress.” The Noxious Weed Trust Fund (NWTF) grant hearings and deliberations were held virtually for the first time March 8-12th. Grant requests totaling $2,492,595; over $923,000 more than what was available. Out of all funding available, 51 local cooperative projects were funded at a total of $1,138,844 or 72.5%, ten research projects were funded at $249,442 or 16%, and seven educational projects were funded at $180,831 or 11.5%. A list of funded grant projects for 2021 is available on the MDA website at https://agr.mt.gov/NWTF-FundingHistory. The Montana Noxious Weed Trust Fund grant program was established by the Montana Legislature in 1985. The advisory council reviews applications, hears applicant testimony, and provides funding recommendations to the Director of Agriculture for final approval. Funding is typically passed through a governmental organization, local weed district, conservation district, extension office, or university. Applications for 2022 Noxious Weed Trust Fund grants will be available in mid-July and must be submitted by January 6, 2022. The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov. ### 28 Weed Times Magazine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Becky Kington June 1, 2021 MWCA Executive Director 406-684-5590 Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Week becomes Official Twin Bridges, Montana - Midway through the 2021 legislative session, Becky Kington, Executive Director of Montana Weed Control Association (MWCA) and Dave Burch, MWCA President, approached legislators Marilyn Marler (D) and Ken Walsh (R) about the possibility of obtaining an official noxious weed week for Montana. These two legislators worked very quickly and, in the end, helped pass legislation to declare the first FULL week in June as Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Week. This year, Montana Noxious Weed Awareness Week will be held June 6 – June 12, 2021. “We were asked why we weren’t pushing for all taxa and it was felt by many in our Association that terrestrial weeds were getting lost in the all taxa message. In addition, National Invasive Species Awareness Week is held in February, which does not make much sense for Montana’s weed season,” says Kington, “We are super stoked that with Ken and Marilyn’s bipartisan help, we were able to establish a week that is timely for noxious weed management and promotes education and awareness about terrestrial noxious weeds.” The Montana Weed Control Association, Montana Department of Agriculture and Montana Noxious Weed Education Campaign have been working together to create resources, press releases and social media fodder and other information for this week. MDA will be holding a weed pull in Helena on Wednesday, June 9, and hopefully Governor Gianforte will attend. MWCA will be holding drawings for their annual fundraising gun raffle each day of this week, and in addition to this, MWCA will be conducting an interview on Tuesday, June 1 with Northern Ag Broadcasting to promote the week. In 2021, the focus will be not only on terrestrial weeds, but on new invasive weeds that are working their way into our state. It will also be awareness week for the national educational campaign, Play Clean Go ® which works well with the overall message. All the festivities will kick off on Sunday, June 6, 2021, with the first of seven MWCA gun raffle drawings. Video’s of the drawings will be held on each day at 2 p.m. on Facebook. On Monday, we’ll have introductions to the problems and the week in general, Tuesday’s information will focus on prevention, Wednesday’s focus will be management with a Mount Helena Weed Pull in Helena with MT Department of Agriculture, Thursday will focus on education and awareness, Friday’s information will highlight successes and Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA) task forces and Saturday will end the week with the final gun raffle drawing. Montana Weed Control Association is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is working together to strengthen and support noxious weed management efforts in Montana. For more information, please visit www.mtweed.org or their Facebook page. 29

Weed Professional Spotlight AV8-ORR Aviation & Andy Orr 1. Tell us a little about AV8 Like most helicopter operations, the job ended, I went straight operations we are nomadic and go where to helicopter flight school in the work is. Like the song title Hillsboro, Oregon, I was 20 We are located at the Ravalli from the late great Johnny Cash, years old. County Airport in Hamilton, I’ve Been Everywhere. MT but only for a few more What is the most challenging months. We are building a How did you come about aspect of being an aerial new facility off airport on some being a helicopter pilot and applicator? ground we own just south of what other jobs have you held Hamilton. prior to this? The challenges are many, picking one may be difficult We employ 2 full time pilots, I grew up on a farm in Indiana, but the influx of people and me plus one and 1 part time my dad would hire crop dusters development of rural areas relief pilot. I personally fly all from time to time to spray his by people with little to no the spray operations; the other fields. I was fascinated by the understanding of what we are guys do most of the fire work. planes and the pilots who flew doing and why is concerning to Additionally, we also employ them and dreamed of the places me. Working around these areas 2 full time aircraft mechanics I could go in an airplane. can be particularly challenging. and 2 full time CDL Drivers and of course my wife, Melissa The dream went cold for a You spray all over the state, who handles most of the while and after graduating high what would you say is administrative duties. school in Hamilton, I entered the noxious weed of most the workforce. In the spring of concern to you and why? Currently we operate 2 1994, I landed a construction helicopters, a Bell 206 long job in Alaska, the work sites That is a tough question but for ranger and a Bell UH-1H Huey. were in remote, roadless areas me I would probably say winter We do all our spraying with the requiring full helicopter support. annual grasses. Whether it is a 206 and use the Huey on fires, This is where I got bit by the we also have a spraying drone. helicopter bug. In the fall, when Continued on page... 30 Weed Times Magazine

AV8 Operations... turned out be ineffective and the following year we were hired to reduction in forage and carrying retreat the areas the airplane capacity, a loss of quality wildlife had sprayed. Where is the habitat or the increased risk and economy in that? severity of wildfires my personal feeling is no other noxious weed Besides spraying weeds, has the potential to change what other aerial work do you the landscape of the American do (if any) and what do you West like winter annuals do. do in the winter? Unfortunately, it has already happened in many areas of the Besides spraying we also fight west. The good news is, we wildland fires, provide aerial have a better understanding of crane services, powerline how to control them and some construction, aerial fertilizer effective tools that are helping applications, aerial seeding and turn things around. fire rehab as well as charter and scenic tours. In the winter For those who feel aerial we perform seed applications spraying is too costly, how do for wildland fire rehab, various you respond to that answer? wildlife missions and frost control for almond growers in An application is an investment California. We also stay busy the individual is making in maintaining our aircraft and the land and or operation. A equipment and getting things significant amount of the cost ready for the upcoming season. associated with an application is the chemical, so I encourage What do you do for fun clients to select the best (Besides flying)? method of application in order to maximize their ROI. Aerial I really enjoy travel and application is usually the most adventure, fly fishing, effective and economical particularly saltwater fly fishing, method of threating large areas I recently got into mountain of rough ground. Fixed wing biking and, of course, spending applications typically cost less time with my wife and two than helicopter applications, daughters is always good fun. but helicopters are much more maneuverable, provide better Tell us where you’ve had the coverage and better suited for best steak in Montana? applications in rugged terrain. Here is an example. A couple I am being biased but I have years ago a customer in central had some great steaks at home Montana requested a quote from on my deck. Where have you us to apply several hundred had the best steak in Montana?! acres of Esplanade. As a cost (** Editor’s response: Finley saving measure the customer Point Bar & Grill in Polson!) decided to save a couple bucks and flew it on with an airplane even though it was not really airplane ground. The application 31

2021 MWCA Award Categories Due November 15th Awards will be presented at the MWCA Annual Awards Ceremony during the 2022 MWCA Annual Conference. The awards are: 1) Non-Agency Weed Fighter of the Year • Has a passion for and actively participates in weed management in Montana (examples may include the CWMA personnel, private individuals, landowners, ranchers, farmers, guides, outfitters, students, interns, etc.) • May use unique and innovative approaches to weed control. • May employ the use of integrated weed control. • Open to any age level. 2) Agency Weed Fighter of the Year • Must work for city, county, state or federal (including tribal) agency. • A proven leader who cooperates or partners with others. (Examples of partnership may include the public, departments, landowners and other agencies.) • Institutes an aggressive attack on weeds. • May use unique and innovative approaches to weed control. • May engage in the use of integrated weed control. 3) Outstanding Weed District • County weed/Tribal district App of the Issue Office documents snapshot & smart image doc management CamScanner High-resolution scan & image editor available MWCA Treasurer Pam Schwend turned me on to this app several years ago and it truly has been a life saver! Forget the faxes, the scans, and the photos of documents. This app scans from your phone/tablet camera and creates PDF files to send directly from your phone. It scans in color, black and white or a mix and it also compresses large files. There is a free basic version, otherwise for premium scans, the cost is $50 per year or $5 per month. 32 Weed Times Magazine

• For a district that has increased public awareness of weed problems and may have; • Involved county government and the general public in weed control efforts; • Used integrated and innovative approaches to overwhelming problems; • Has successfully partnered with other agencies and organizations to enhance their weed program; • Provided cost-effective means of control within the program and/or; • Shown improvement through on-the-ground treatment at a significant level within the county. 4) Outstanding CWMA • For a cooperative weed management area that has successfully established itself and: • Gathering and engaging an active group of volunteers to promote its efforts; • Actively engages in weed management efforts through spray days, education events, grants and/or cost share programs; • Implements innovate or unique approaches to noxious weed management and; • May employ a variety of integrated weed management techniques • A proven program that partners with others. (Examples of partnership may include the public, departments, landowners, and other organizations/agencies.) 5) Barb Mullin Lifetime Achievement Award – $100.00 Barbra (Barb) H. Mullin was born and raised in Helena, Montana and received a B.S. degree in Botany and Plant Protection and a M.S. degree in Plant Pathology from Montana State University. She spent her 24-year professional career working for the Montana Department of Agricultural, holding the position of state weed coordinator and program manager. Barb was passionate about protecting Montana’s native landscapes from terrestrial invaders like leafy spurge and spotted knapweed but was also passionate about aquatic plant management. She was a dedicated public servant for the people of Montana and the cause of environmental protection. She took advantage of every opportunity, every teachable moment to educate others about the threat of non-native, invasive plants. Barb was the driving force that created the First Montana Weed Management Plan for both terrestrial and aquatic plants. While her life was cut short, it was a life well lived with purpose and dedication to a noble cause. Each year the MWCA recognizes individuals who share Barb’s commitment, dedication, and pursuit of environ- mental protection through science and plant management. This is the most prestigious award the MWCA awards. Agency personnel, officials and private individuals may qualify. Principle criteria for this award includes: • Innovative or unique approaches that result in learning; • Demonstrate excellence and creativity in leadership abilities; • Demonstrates the impact of weed management practices and principals of weed science; • Recognition of accomplishments by peers and intended audiences; • Person has been active in the MWCA for 10 years or more and; • Effectively communicates with agencies and the public in the noxious weed effort. 33

Back Injury: Working Safer David P. Gilkey, D.C., Ph.D., CPE, CSP Associate Professor Safety, Health and Industrial Hygiene Montana Tech University Protect your back this spring, don’t be foolish and risk suffering a back injury. Back injuries range in severity from mild to permanently disabling. A serious back injury can devastate your life. Back injuries are far too common and comprise approximately 25% of all work-related injuries and have the highest costs compared to other injuries. The economic impact of back injuries rises to an estimated $200 billion annually. Don’t be one of the many that suffer each year. The neck and back is a complex structural network of 33 spinal segments, 250 ligaments and nearly 300 muscles that must work in unison to allow us to move, lift objects, push, pull, climb, stoop, and more. The back is rich with spinal nerves that receive and send messages from sensors located in tissues to the brain that intern sends messages to muscles to activate responses allowing us to avoid stresses that may harm us. Back injuries often arise from one of three mechanisms 1) Overexertion, 2) Accidental injury, and 3) Cumulative trauma. Overexertion is the leading cause of back injury. A forceful effort may strain the musculature resulting in back pain. In severe cases, muscles and ligaments may tear and even bleed into tissues causing bruising. Accidental injury may be caused by a number of unforeseen events such as loss of footing, being trapped in a tight workspace, or slipping while handling material. Cumulative trauma is from repeated efforts/strains over a long period of time. Common back injuries include strains, sprains and slipped discs. Slipped discs are the most serious and may require surgery. Treatment often includes rest, ice, heat, physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and time. Most injuries heal within six weeks. Avoiding back injuries begins with you! Stay fit and keep your height and weight proportional. Those who carry extra pounds are at greater risk for back injury. Consider that approximately ½ of your body weight is above your waist and thus is added to the weight of any loads lifted. Don’t lift without warming up your back, leg, and shoulder muscles with a little stretching to prepare for any Manual Material Handling (MMH). Know what you are going to lift, can you get close, does it have handles, is it bulky, does it weigh over 50 lbs? Test the load so that you know how much it weighs and how much effort is needed for lift. Keep your body close to the load and your back as straight as possible. Lift with the power of your legs whenever possible. A squat lift is the best unless you have knee problems. The stoop lifting is higher risk and should be avoided. Make sure that you have a good grip and lift slowly, don’t jerk a load too fast, the momentum can be hard to control and cause a strain injury. Try not to twist while you lift. If the load is greater than 50 lbs., consider getting help from another worker or using a lift assist device such at a hand truck or forklift. 34 Weed Times Magazine

MWCA Basic Business Members 4M Weed Control, Sheridan, MT | Charles McDougal 406-925-1494 All American Weed Service, LLC, Bozeman, MT | Glenn Colclough 406- 570-2133 Gateway Land & Cattle, Gallatin Gateway, MT | Frederick King 406-763-4327 Golden Triangle Property Services, LLC, Conrad, MT | Joel Farkell 406-581-6243 JHS, Inc., Helena, MT | John Semple 406-443-7487 Nitrogreen, Great Falls, MT | Kevin Ferguson 406-761-3967 Northern Rockies Invasive Plant Council, Moscow, ID | Marijka Haverhals 208-301-1216 Ponderosa Snow Warriors, Lincoln, MT | Jeanette Nordahl 406-362-3334 Road & Range Spraying, Lima, MT | Pete Brown 406-276-3333 Integrated Weed Management, Bozeman, MT | Bob & Cyndi Crayton 406-585-2789 West River Land Management, LLC., Helena, MT | Nigel Davis 406-431-508 Young’s Tree & Forestry LLC, Bozeman, MT | Glade Young 406-587-2991 35

Weed Times Non Profit Org. MAGAZINE U.S. POSTAGE PAID Bozeman, MT Permit No 94 License Plate Help Fight Noxious Weeds. This specialty license plate may be purchased at your county license bureau. For more information visit our web site Photo by Celestine Duncan www.mtweed.org Thanks for your suppoLrSitme.eitAoeuvdraEwildeaibtbisloiteneNAforortwdP!ertianiltss..