The JLCA met yesterday June 30 2011 with concerned members and Marty Hafke of the East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council.

We were given information regarding the Plant Councils "took kit" in dealing with these problem areas, which involve public outreach, prevention, landowner incentives, early detection, inventory and data management, prioritizing, treatment, disposal and monitoring.

They have recently used spray herbicide from the bottom of Jimsmith Lake Rd. to the Park and because of community concerns have agreed to not come further into the community. However there are noxious weeds of concern, particularly the Spotted Knapweed, Blueweed Canada Thistle and Yellow Toadflax in our area. With the following also being noxious weeds of concern in the East Kootenays.

Common Tansy

Leafy Spurage

Hoary Alyssum

Perennial Pepperweed

Orange Hawkweed

Rush Skeletonweed

Purple Loosestrife

Yellow Flag Iris

During the meeting as we discussed the various options the best solution seems to be that we what we map the areas of major concern to us in the JLCA area, (i.e., the bottom of hilltop, a couple of areas on hilltop and a few spots on private property) that have been noted. Then with all necessary information, wells, gardens and property owners permission we will deal with the problem in a cooperative fashion.

The EKIPC has programs to help private land owners and communities deal with invasive weeds.

“Throughout the long history of our species, humans have moved other organisms. Sometimes on purpose, sometimes by accident; its part of what we do. Once in a while, a species we've moved has found itself in virgin territory and has spread rapidly, changing the landscape forever. Plants that seem to suddenly "take over" are labelled "invasive," meaning that they have characteristics in their abilities to disperse and spread that let them do damage to otherwise intact ecological systems. This is a serious problem, both in conservation terms and in economic terms.” Canadian Botanical Conservation Network

We have added two copies of "Invasive Plants of the Crown of the Continent" to the JLCA Library. These can be borrowed at any time, as well as other information which will be posted on the bulletin board.

Any concerns or comments please drop me or another director an email.

Thanks

Greg