: Frequently Asked Questions :

What is a Weed Management Association?

A Weed Management Association is a group of concerned citizens, organizations, and counties that come together to form a united front for the battle against invasive species.  There are weed management organizations all across the state of Nebraska that are tackling the specific issues in their local areas.  The High Plains Weed Management Association's coverage area includes the following eight counties in the Nebraska Panhandle: Scotts Bluff, Banner, Kimball, Morrill, Cheyenne, Garden, Deuel and southern Sioux.  By having an organized group that can coordinate the efforts and apply for funding through private, state, or federal grants, local efforts to address these issues are streamlined and done in a much more efficient and effective manner.  Currently, HPWMA is utilizing funds through the Nebraska state grant program, known as LB 701 funding, as well as a $1.8 million grant (over two years) from the Nebraska Environmental Trust to educate local citizens on these issues, as well as to implement eradication efforts.  Through local projects, such as Nine Mile Creek, the Nebraska Panhandle is quickly becoming a leader in addressing Invasive Species concerns, and hopes to continue and expand upon its efforts through the North Platte River Invasive Species Control Project.

What weeds are you treating?

Although all invasive species are a concern, the HPWMA currently is focusing on Phragmites, Russian olive, Salt cedar, Musk Thistle, Canada Thistle, and Scotch Thistle.  To learn more about what invasive species have been designated a spot on the Nebraska or County-level Noxious Weeds list, as well as those on the Nebraska Weed Watch List, please visit the Nebraska Weed Control Association's Weed Mapper and search for your county or city.

What do you do?

Currently, HPWMA utilizes an integrated approach to invasive species control.  By evaluating each area's individual projects to determine what the best method of control is, HPWMA is able to customize based on the best known practices in weed control at this time, which can include the use of chemical applications, shearing, or other methods based on the circumstances.  Re-planting and land recovery is also a part of these efforts, and a major priority of the Association.  Through landowner participation and education, this collaborative effort hopes to enhance the entire watershed back to its more natural state.

I'm a landowner that has weeds, can you come onto my land without my permission?

It is neither the intention or the wish of HPWMA to overstep its bounds and try to force anyone into implementing a project on his or her land that they don't wish to have happen.  HPWMA's goal has always been cooperation and participation, and welcomes any project that a landowner or concerned citizen feels would be beneficial, but if you don't feel that invasive species are a concern or you don't wish to be a part of this project, then it is your right not to participate.  We encourage you to learn more about the types of projects we hope to accomplish, as well as the projected benefits of those projects while making your decision. 

How can I be a part of your work?

If you have a project idea, or want to be a part of this great project, please contact the Project Manager to learn more!

To learn more about HPWMA, please visit our About Us page, or to obtain further information or resources, check out our Links page.