BLM to Begin Aerial Cheatgrass Treatments South of Rock Springs
ROCK SPRINGS, Wyo. — The Bureau of Land Management’s Rock Springs Field Office, in coordination with the Sweetwater County Weed and Pest Control District, will begin aerial cheatgrass treatments to combat invasive cheatgrass approximately 16,500 acres of public and partner-managed lands south of Rock Springs from late July through early September 2026, pending favorable weather conditions.
The treatments will target cheatgrass using the herbicide indaziflam (trade name Rejuvra) across areas of mixed ownership, including Greasewood Draw, Currant Creek Ridge, Cedar Canyon, and Little Mountain Substation and the Glades. The effort is designed to reduce wildfire risk, improve habitat for big game and enhance forage for livestock.
Cheatgrass is an invasive, early-season annual grass that spreads rapidly across western landscapes. It outcompetes native vegetation, creates continuous fire-prone fuel beds and can disrupt rangeland recovery following disturbance.
All herbicide applications will follow pesticide label requirements and approved Pesticide Use Proposal guidelines to protect public health, applicator safety, and the environment. During treatment periods, aircraft may operate at low altitudes in and near project areas. Permittees, recreationists, oil and gas field personnel, and other public land users are encouraged to remain aware of ongoing treatment operations.
For additional information, contact Sweetwater County Weed and Pest Supervisor Dan Madsen at 307-350-2961, Rock Springs Fuels Specialist Rachele Oman at 307-352-0287, or High Desert District Fuels Specialist Chris Otto at 307-328-4250.
For more information about BLM Wyoming, visit https://www.blm.gov/wyoming.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.