July 12, 2024 |
Photo – Cheat grass – Courtesy USFS
Good news for ranchers. Governor Gordon received long-awaited approval from the Bureau of Land Management for seven herbicides to control noxious weeds and invasive species, including Indaziflam.
Indaziflam has been proven to help grazing permittees eliminate cheat grass, a terrestrial invasive species. The herbicide is used by the U.S. Forest Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and is being applied throughout Wyoming successfully to limit the spread of cheat grass and other invasive species.
Governor Gordon said in a statement that while he welcomed the approval, “it would have been even more welcome months ago as states and counties were planning a coordinated spraying program for the season.”
Wyoming’s governor said “having additional tools to ensure a consistent, thorough, and effective invasive plant eradication effort benefits Wyoming’s wildlife, fire prevention, and habitat improvement programs.”
With Thursday’s long-awaited approval, Indaziflam will be eligible for application on 18 million acres of BLM land in Wyoming.
Wyoming invests millions of dollars annually to prevent the proliferation of terrestrial invasive species, including cheat grass, ventana, and medusahead.
The Governor, who comes from a ranching background, consistently spearheads the fight against invasive species and led a task force to that made recommendations on how to best target eradication.
At the Governor’s request, the Wyoming Legislature approved $9 million for battling terrestrial invasives this year.
