: North Platte River Invasive Species Control Project :
The current drought in Western Nebraska has forced landowners to evaluate every available option for water conservation. The High Plains Weed Management Association has taken on the responsibility to address the water loss caused by the expansive growth of invasive species. The three main invasive species (Russian olive, Salt cedar, and Phragmites) are targeted to be controlled. The funds  requested will be used to begin removal and control these invasive species in the riparian areas of the North Platte River watershed.
Project implementation will include approximately 8,085 acres being treated . The hiring of competent local leaders in this field will ensure coordination of the project as well as the ability of the organization to keep the public informed. The eudcational process will utilize newsletters, workshops and the organization's website to help landowners and others understand the value of cost-sharing on this project. The project will have a positive effect locally on the work force, as well, by creating jobs to stimulate the local economy. Monitoring sites and test plots for existing and new technologies will be established. This will ensure the best results achievable. The Russian olive will be sheared, stump-treated and removed to areas not in teh flood plain. Salt cedar and Phragmites will be treated and left standing to ensure complete eradication. During the beginning phases of the project, Phragmites will be especially targeted due to the opportunity to catch its infestation before it reaches astronomical levels, which has been projected to be within the year. Conservation partners and landowners will be an essential part of project implementation with their monetary and volunteer support. Through this in-kind and monetary support, this project is projected to total $2,275,000 in its beginning phases. This collaboration will assist in restoring the riparian areas to their more natural states. The project will reduce water consumption, which will benefit everyone withint the entire Platte River watershed. The possibility of flooding due to debris in the flood plain will also be greatly reduced after it is removed during the project. Not only will the restoration of native habitat and pastureland have a positive effect, but the esthetics of the entire watershed will also be enhance.
Project implementation has already begun! To find out about how you can be involved, please visit our Resources page.
North Platte River Invasive Species Control Project Nebraska Environmental Trust Press Release
Grants :: Nine Mile Creek :: North Platte River |
