BLM Nevada News
ELY DISTRICT OFFICE NO. 2008-052
FOR RELEASE:  Wednesday, July 30, 2008
CONTACT:  Chris Hanefeld, (775) 289-1842; chris_hanefeld@nv.blm.gov

BLM Seeks Public Input on Integrated Weed Management Plan Proposal

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Ely District Office is asking for the public’s input on a proposed integrated weed management plan that would provide for non-native and noxious invasive weed inventory and treatment, prevention and education.

The 30-day public input period concludes at close of business, Friday, Aug. 29, 2008.  Interested individuals should address all written comments to the BLM Ely District Office, HC 33 Box 33500, Ely, NV, 89301, attn: Bonnie Million.

The proposed district-wide plan would include weed prevention procedures and a variety of treatment options in and outside of Wilderness or wilderness study areas, including the use of herbicides.  Herbicide treatments would not be authorized within Threatened and Endangered Species habitat. 

Non-native and noxious invasive weeds threaten ecosystem health in the Great Basin and Mojave deserts.  Non-native and noxious invasive weeds destroy wildlife habitat, and increase wildland fire frequency and size; reduce plant and animal diversity, disrupt waterfowl and neo-tropical migratory bird flight patterns and nesting habitats, reduce opportunities for hunting, fishing, camping and other recreational activities; and cost millions of dollars in treatments and loss of productivity to private landowners.

The BLM anticipates completing a draft plan and making it available for public comment in January 2009.  The final plan is scheduled for completion in March 2009.

For more information, contact Bonnie Million, BLM Ely District noxious and invasive weeds specialist, at (775) 289-1800 or bonnie_million@nv.blm.gov.

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