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HomeMy WebLinkAbout960121.tiff ORDINANCE NO. 169-A IN THE MATTER OF REPEALING AND REENACTING ORDINANCE NO. 169, THE UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE COUNTY OF WELD, STATE OF COLORADO BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF WELD, STATE OF COLORADO: WHEREAS,the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Weld, State of Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of the County of Weld, State of Colorado, and WHEREAS, on May 4, 1992, the Board of County Commissioners adopted Weld County Ordinance 169, which became effective May 12, 1992, and which provides for the adoption and enforcement of an undesirable plant management plan in Weld County, and WHEREAS, said Ordinance 169 designates five (5) weed species as undesirable and mandated for management in Weld County, those being: Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula), Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens), Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa), Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense), and Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans), and WHEREAS, upon the recommendation of the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board, the Board of County Commissioners hereby finds and determines that there is a need to add two weed species to the list of those currently designated as undesirable and mandated for management in Weld County, the two additions being: Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) and Scotch Thistle (Onopordum acanthium), thereby requiring, at a minimum, an amendment to said Ordinance 169, and WHEREAS, upon further recommendation of the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board, the Board of County Commissioners hereby finds and determines that there is a need to make other revisions to the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan, thereby requiring the repeal and reenactment of said Ordinance 169. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Weld, State of Colorado, that Weld County Ordinance Number 169, adopted May 4, 1992, be, and hereby is, repealed and, by and through this Ordinance 169-A, be, and hereby is, reenacted, as follows: ARTICLE 1 --WELD COUNTY UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN I. INTRODUCTION A. DESCRIPTION OF THE COLORADO UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT ACT The Colorado Undesirable Plant Management Act, CRS §35-5.5-101, et. seq., (hereinafter "the Act") states that certain undesirable plants pose a threat to the continued economic and environmental value of the land in Colorado and that they must be managed by all landowners in the state. The undesirable plants designated for mandatory management statewide are: Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula), Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens), Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa) and Spotted cC ('cc� C6 rata) 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 1 OF 24 REC D0C 960121 Weld County CO Clerk & Recorder 0.00 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 2 Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa). Additional weed species may be added to the state list by each local jurisdiction. The Act states such that local governments (cities and counties) are directed to take the necessary steps to manage the undesirable plants in their respective jurisdictions. They are further directed to appoint an advisory commission whose responsibilities are threefold: 1. Develop recommended management criteria and integrated weed management plans for managing the designated undesirable plants; 2. Recommend the addition, if necessary, of undesirable plants that shall be subject to integrated management; 3. Recommend to the county commissioners the names of those landowners who shall be required to submit integrated weed management plans for managing the undesirable plants on their property. The Act further states that by January 1, 1992, each local governing body is to have developed and adopted an Undesirable Plant Management Plan for all lands within its jurisdictional boundaries. II. DESCRIPTION OF THE COUNTY OF WELD WEED PROBLEM A. WEED SPECIES IN WELD COUNTY TO BE CONTROLLED, PURSUANT TO WEED CONTROL LAWS The Pest Control Districts Law (CRS 35-5-104) enabled landowners in each county the ability, through a lengthy petitioning and balloting process, to establish weed control districts. Within each weed district, designated species are mandated to be controlled. In Weld County, nine such weed districts exist. The districts occur in the lower two-thirds of the County, and the weed species designated for control range from three to seven species, depending upon the weed district. The weed species that are currently being managed in at least a part of Weld County are as follows: Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula), Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans), Field Bindweed (Convolvolus arvensis), Whitetop (Cardaria draba), Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens) Wild Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum) Under the Act (CRS§35-5.5-101, et seq.), there are four weed species which are mandated for county-wide management. They are Leafy Spurge, and Russian, Diffuse and Spotted Knapweed. Canada Thistle, Musk Thistle, Scotch Thistle and Field Bindweed are added to the county-wide undesirable plant list by this Ordinance 169-A, in accordance with CRS §35-5.5-108(3). 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 2 OF 24 960121 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 3 Of the weed species listed previously, Canada Thistle, Field Bindweed, Leafy Spurge, Musk Thistle, Russian Knapweed, Whitetop and Wild Proso Millet cover the most acreage in Weld County and pose the greatest economic and environmental threat to the county. Diffuse Knapweed is currently localized to a few drainages and rights-of-way in the southwest part of the County, and there is one known Spotted Knapweed infestation in the County. III. OBJECTIVES AND GOALS A. STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES The objectives of the Weld County Public Works Department with respect to weed management in Weld County are fourfold: 1. Develop and carry out a comprehensive noxious weed control program on all county rights-of-way and other county property, such as in sand and gravel mining operations, grader shed lots and open space areas. 2. Establish an educational program, by using mailings and holding educational and calibration seminars, that will effectively communicate weed management information to the landowners in the County. 3. Identify non-informed or negligent landowners who are not carrying out weed management programs on their property and provide technical support for establishing weed management plans or enforce on properties, if necessary. 4. Work with all state and federal agencies, through intergovernmental agreements, if necessary, towards establishing effective weed management programs on their property. B. SHORT TERM GOALS—(January 1995 to December 1998) 1. Map all the County roads for noxious weed infestations. 2. Map on a computer program at least half of the landowners that have Leafy Spurge, Canada Thistle and Russian Knapweed infestations. 3. Continue to establish contact with landowners on the South Platte and Poudre Rivers who have noxious weed infestations. 4. Establish educational/calibration seminars (annually) that work directly with 150-200 landowners each year. 5. Have established contact with the Colorado Department of Highways, Department of Parks and Recreation, Colorado Land Board, Division of Wildlife and U.S. Forest Service. Help them develop Weed Management Plans and where appropriate enter into cooperative intergovernmental agreements. 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 3 OF 24 960121 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO, 169-A PAGE 4 6. Have established six to eight biological control release sites throughout the county in cooperation with the Colorado Department of Agriculture and private landowners. 7. By 1995, have reduced the noxious weed acreage sprayed on county rights-of-way by 15-20%. C. LONG TERM GOALS—(January 1999 to December 2002) 1. Have mapped on the computer program most noxious weed infestations county-wide, including private, state and federal lands. 2. Have reduced the noxious weed acreage sprayed on county rights-of-way by 40-50%. 3. Have contacted and worked with most landowners county-wide who have a noxious weed infestation. 4. Have established 30-50 biological control release sites in the county. IV. PLAN OF WORK- IMPLEMENTATION A. DESCRIPTION OF INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES The weed species designated as undesirable and mandated for management are Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula), Russian Knapweed ( Acroptilon repens), Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa), Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense) Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans), Scotch Thistle (Onopordum acanthium) and Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis). Integrated weed management methods are to be used in managing these weed species (CRS §35-5.5-107). Integrated management techniques include education; preventive measures; and control measures including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical control. For the purposes of this plan the following definitions for the control measures will be used. 1. Cultural Control means those methodologies or management practices conducted to favor the growth of desirable plants over undesirable plants, including, but not limited to, maintaining an optimum fertility and plant moisture status in an area, planting at optimum density and spatial arrangement in an area, and planting species most suited to an area. 2. Mechanical Control means those methodologies or management practices that physically disrupt plant growth, including, but not limited to, tilling, mowing, burning, flooding, mulching, hand-pulling and hoeing. 3. Biological Control means the use of organisms such as sheep, goats, cattle, insects and plant diseases to disrupt the growth of undesirable plants. 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 4 OF 24 960121 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 5 4. Chemical Control means the use of herbicides or plant growth regulators to disrupt the growth of undesirable plants. Management of the various undesirable plants will vary depending upon the site where the plant is located. Management options for each weed species will be developed for each site. The integrated management options listed below are meant to provide various management techniques for controlling the noxious weeds in the various environmental sites they are found. By no means are all the management options mentioned. Additional combinations of management techniques are possible which may be submitted by private landowners. The integrated weed management plans submitted by individual landowners will be evaluated by the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist and the Integrated Weed Management Advisory Commission on a case by case basis. B. INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT OPTIONS FOR EACH WEED SPECIES LEAFY SPURGE: Leafy Spurge is a deep rooted perennial plant that spreads by seeds and creeping roots. It has a vast underground root system which makes it difficult to control with any one control technique. Leafy Spurge is found primarily in riparian sites (along waterways such as the Poudre and South Platte Rivers) in Weld County and also along irrigation ditches, range and pastures, roadsides and other non-cropland sites. 1. Control Measures • a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses and forbs can be an effective management tool. Early emerging plant species that utilize early season moisture such as Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) or Crested Wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) have reduced Leafy Spurge density and limited the spread and establishment of new infestation. Sequential glyphosate applications followed by a seeding of Luna Pubescent Wheatgrass, Ephraim Crested Wheatgrass, Intermediate Wheatgrass, Sherman Big Bluegrass or Bozoisky Russian Wild Rye has shown to be very effective in reducing an existing stand of Leafy Spurge. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Leafy Spurge is difficult at best; however, repeated mowing every 14-21 days throughout the summer, starting before flowering stage, will at least keep the plants from going to seed and may reduce the underground root reserve. Research results are not available to indicate whether stand reduction or eradication could be achieved through use of this technique. c. Biological Control: Grazing with sheep and goats throughout the spring, summer, and fall will keep Leafy Spurge from going to seed and may reduce the underground root reserve. This practice may also weaken the plants to make them more susceptible to chemical control. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 5 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 6 Several insect species that have been released by the USDA in the United States are showing some control of Leafy Spurge. Two species of flea beetles, Apthona (lava and Apthona nigriscutis feed on Leafy Spurge. Adults feed on the foliage during the summer and the larvae burrow through the soil and mine the roots and fine root hairs. These insects used alone may not control Leafy Spurge. When used along with other insects such as Spurgia Esula, a gall midge which feeds on the flowers preventing seed production, they will weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other control methods, particularly chemical control. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Leafy Spurge. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®); 2,4-D (many different formulations); glyphosate (Roundup® and Rodeo®); fosamine (Krenite®) and any EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Leafy Spurge. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range, Pasture and Riparian Sites Option#1 Biological and Chemical Control: Grazing with sheep or goats from early April through late August or early September, followed by a herbicide treatment in late September or early October. Option#2 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Apthona nigriscutis, Apthona fava, Spurgia Esula, and other species conducive to the area can be made. A herbicide treatment can then be made during the true flower stage (where insects were not released) and in the fall where insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the fall where insects are used. Use of herbicides at different times if the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Option #3 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first mowing cycle at the bud stage. Mowing should stop during late August followed by a herbicide treatment during late September or early October (before a hard freeze). Option #4 Biological or Mechanical Control Only: The use of sheep or goats or mowing should be used all season to keep Leafy Spurge from going to seed. Whether this method will keep the existing infestation from spreading by underground root growth is uncertain. 2484433 8-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 6 OF 24 960121 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 7 Option#5 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides should be used in the spring, early summer during the true flower stage and in the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Along Irrigation Ditches Option#1 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Apthona nigriscutis, Apthona flava, Spurgia Esula and other species conducive to the area could be made. An herbicide treatment should be carried out at the true flower stage (if the Spurgia Esula has not kept the plants from going to seed) and/or in the fall just before a hard freeze. Option #2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring or early summer during the true flower stage and in the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. c. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Areas Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing cycle can be carried out at the bud to early flower stage. A herbicide application should be made at the true flower stage. Option #2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring or early summer during the true flower stage and in the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for use on roadsides and other non-cropland areas would be used. RUSSIAN KNAPwEED: Russian Knapweed is a non-native perennial plant that spreads by seeds and creeping roots. It has the ability to release chemicals into the environment as foliage decays which inhibit the growth of surrounding vegetation (allelopathic properties). Thus, once established, Russian Knapweed can colonize an area rapidly. Russian Knapweed is found primarily in range and pastures, roadsides and other non-cropland sites in Weld County. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses such as Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) will help to compete with Russian Knapweed and slow its spread. In addition, stimulating grass growth by fertilizing and/or irrigation should increase grass competition. Due to the allelopathic properties of Russian Knapweed, other control techniques such as judicious chemical control would have to be implemented in order to give grasses a chance to compete. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 7 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 8 b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Russian Knapweed could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14-21 days. This would at least keep Russian Knapweed from going to seed. Whether this control technique will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce an existing stand is not known. c. Biological Control: There are currently no biological control agents available for Russian Knapweed. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Russian Knapweed. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: chlorsulfuron (Telar®); picloram (Tordon®); 2,4-D (many different formulations); glyphosate (Roundup® and Rodeo®) and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Russian Knapweed. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range and Pastures Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first and successive mowing cycles carried out at the bud stage. A herbicide treatment can then be made in the fall before a hard freeze. Option #2 Cultural and Chemical: An herbicide application, using short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be made followed up by reseeding with a competitive grass such as smooth brome or other sod forming species. In addition, fertilization or irrigation could be instituted to stimulate increased grass growth. Option #3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide applications can be made to Russian Knapweed during the bud stage, bloom to post-bloom and/or in the fall, depending upon herbicide used. b. Road Rights-of-Way and other Non-Crop Areas Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical: One mowing cycle can be carried out at the bud to early flower stage. An herbicide application can be made during the bud stage, bloom to post-bloom and/or in the fall, depending upon the herbicide used. Option #2 Cultural and Chemical Control: Use of short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be used in the early summer during the bud stage. Seeding with perennial grasses such as Smooth Brome, Luna Pubescent Wheatgrass, Ephraim Crested Wheatgrass, Intermediate Wheatgrass, Sherman Big Bluegrass or Bozoisky Russian Wild Rye can than be carried out later in the summer, at the appropriate time. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 8 OF' 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 9 Option #3 Chemical Only: Herbicide applications can be made during the bud stage, bloom to post bloom and/or in the fall, depending upon the herbicide used. DIFFUSE KNAPWEED: Diffuse Knapweed is a non-native, biennial to short-lived perennial fort that reproduces by seed. It spreads rapidly by the mature plant breaking off at ground level and being blown with the wind, dispersing seed. It is a pioneer species that will quickly invade disturbed, dry sites. Diffuse Knapweed is found in the southwest part of Weld County along rights-of-way, dry pasture sites and in gravelly riparian sites, such as along Boulder Creek and the St. Vrain and South Platte Rivers. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Cultural Control of Diffuse Knapweed is similar to Russian Knapweed in that seeding with perennial grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass will help to compete with Diffuse Knapweed and slow its spread. Seeding alone in infested sites will not, however, control the existing stand. b. Mechanical Control: Mowing Diffuse Knapweed when it is in the bud stage and again when it is flowering can significantly reduce seed production. Keeping Diffuse Knapweed from going to seed over a number of years can eventually eliminate an infestation, once the seed source in the soil is depleted. c. Biological Control: Two species of picture-winged flies, Urophora affinis and U. quadnfasciata have demonstrated the ability to reduce the seed production of diffuse and Spotted Knapweed. The flies lay eggs on the developing seed heads. As a result of the larvae feeding on the flowering heads, the plants produce galls which reduces seed production. The Colorado insectory is currently rearing these two flies and has made releases in the state the last three years. d. Chemical Control: There are a few herbicides labeled for use on Diffuse Knapweed. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®); glyphosate (Roundup®); 2,4-D (many different formulations) and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Diffuse Knapweed. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Pasture and Riparian Areas Option #1 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application can be made in early summer when Diffuse Knapweed is in the rosette through bolting stage. Reseeding with competitive perennial 960121 ORD169 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 9 OF 24 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 10 grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass can be followed later in the summer depending upon the herbicide used and rate of application. Option#2 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Urophora affinis and U. quadrifasciata can be made. A herbicide treatment can then be made from the rosette through bolting stage (where insects were not released) and in the fall where insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the fall, where insects are used. The use of herbicides at different times of the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Option #3 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out when Diffuse Knapweed is in the bud stage and again at flowering. A herbicide application can then be made to any plants that have re-bolted, if necessary. Option #4 Mechanical Control Only: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season which will reduce seed set. Option #5 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide application can be made during the rosette stage, spring or fall, and while bolting. b. Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Areas Option #1 Cultural and Chemical Control: Same as for Option #1 in pasture and riparian areas. Option #2 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing operation can be carried out when Diffuse Knapweed is in the bud stage. If necessary, a herbicide application can be made to plants that have re-bolted. Option #3 Mechanical Control Only: Same as for Option #4 in pasture and riparian areas. Option #4 Chemical Control Only: Same as for Option #5 in pasture and riparian areas. SPOTTED KNAPWEED: Spotted Knapweed is a non-native, perennial forb that reproduces by seed. It is a highly competitive plant in rangeland sites that will exclude most grasses and forts with time. There is limited Spotted Knapweed infestations currently along the South Platte River drainage in Weld County. 1, Control Measures 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 10 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 11 a. Cultural Control: Cultural control of Spotted Knapweed is similar to such control of Russian and Diffuse Knapweed in that seeding with perennial grasses such as Smooth Brome and crested wheatgrass will help to compete with Spotted Knapweed and slow its spread. Seeding infested sites will not, however, control the existing stand. In range and pasture conditions, good grazing management practices will help to reduce the spread of the knapweeds in general. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Spotted Knapweed could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14-21 days. This would at least keep Spotted Knapweed from going to seed. Whether this control technique will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce an existing stand is not known. c. Biological Control: The same as what was developed under biological control for Diffuse Knapweed. d. Chemical Control: There are a few herbicides labeled for use on Spotted Knapweed. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: picloram (Tordon®), dicamba (Banvel®), 2,4-D (many different formulations and clopyrald and 2,4-D (Curtail®). CANADA THISTLE: Canada Thistle is an aggressive, creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and vegetative buds in the root system. It is a difficult plant to control because of its extensive root system. Vertical roots may grow 6-15 foot deep and horizontal roots may extend 15 feet or more. Canada Thistle is the most widespread noxious weed in Weld County. It can be found in most habitat types, including: pastures, riparian sites (along waterways such as the Poudre, South Platte, St. Vrain and Big Thompson Rivers), irrigation ditches, along roadside rights- of-way and in the various crop and non-cropland sites. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Plant competition from various grasses and from alfalfa can be an effective management tool. Early emerging grass species such as Smooth Brome and Crested Wheatgrass can be used to compete with Canada Thistle and slow the spread and establishment of new infestations. Competition alone, however, is seldom effective on Canada Thistle. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical Control of Canada Thistle could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14 days. Such method keeps Canada Thistle from going to seed; however, mowing has shown to stimulate new shoot growth from roots. Consequently, mowing alone may increase shoot density in an established stand. Whether consistent mowing for consecutive years (two to three years) will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce an existing stand is unknown. 960121 2484433 B-1541. P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 11 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 12 c. Biological Control: There is one insect species, a weevil, called Ceutorynchus litura, that is currently being used as a biological control agent on Canada Thistle in Colorado. The female lays eggs on the underside of the leaves in early spring and then the larvae bore into the main leaf vein and migrate down to the crown of the plant. The holes created by the larvae open up Canada Thistle to secondary infection. Where high numbers of the larvae occur death of Canada Thistle can occur. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Canada Thistle, depending upon where the thistle is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®); 2,4-D (many different formulations); chlorsulfuron (Telar®); clopyralid (Curtail®, Stinger®, Transline®); glyphosate (Roundup®, Rodeo®) and any EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Canada Thistle. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range, Pasture and Riparian Sites Option #1 Biological and Chemical: Release of the insect Ceutorynchus litura can be made during the early summer. A herbicide application can then be made at the bud stage (where insects were not released) and in the fall where insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the fall, where insects were directly released. Use of herbicides at different times of the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is coordinated and recommendations are developed. Option #2 Mechanical and Chemical: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first mowing cycle at the bud stage. Mowing should stop during late August followed by a herbicide treatment during late September through October, before a hard freeze. Option#3 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application, using short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be made followed up by reseeding with a competitive grass such as smooth brome or other sod forming species. In addition, fertilization or irrigation could be instituted to stimulate increase grass growth. Option #4 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide applications can be made to Canada Thistle from rosette to the bud stage, and/or in the fall, depending upon the herbicide used. 121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 12 OF 24 ORD 169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 13 b. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Areas Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical: One mowing cycle can be carried out at the bud to early flower stage. A herbicide application can be made from rosette to bud stage and/or in the fall, depending upon the herbicide used. Option#2 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application can be made in early summer when Canada Thistle is in the rosette through bud stage. Reseeding with competitive perennial grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass can be followed later in the summer depending upon the herbicide used and rate of application. Option #3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide applications can be made from rosette to bud stage, and/or in the fall, depending upon the herbicide used. c. Cropland Sites Canada Thistle is found in almost every crop grown in Weld County. Prescription weed management measures developed by Colorado State University weed scientists and the Weld County Extension Agronomist will be used. Musk THISTLE: Musk Thistle is a biennial plant that reproduces only by seed. Rosettes (clump of leaves on the ground) are formed during the first year of growth and the plant bolts and sets seed the second year. It is a prolific seed producer with a single plant producing up to 20,000 seeds. Musk Thistle is found primarily in pastures and riparian sites (along waterways such as the South Platte, St. Vrain, Big Thompson, and Little Thompson drainages and Boulder Creek) and along irrigation ditches, roadside rights-of-way and other non crop areas. 1. Control Measures • a. Cultural Control: Maintaining pastures and riparian sites in good condition is the primary method of culturally managing Musk Thistle. Promoting good grass growth by proper grazing management and fertilizing according to soil testing recommendations will prevent establishment of Musk Thistle. b. Mechanical Control: Musk Thistle can be effectively controlled mechanically. Severing the roots below ground with a shovel or hoe or mowing Musk Thistle every time it reaches early flower stage will reduce, if not eliminate seed production. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage, the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 13 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 14 c. Biological Control: Two species of weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus (seed head weevil) and Trichosirocalus horridus, attack two different sites of Musk Thistle. The seed head weevil, as its name implies, attacks the seeds of Musk Thistle. Eggs are laid by the female on the back of developing flowers and then the larvae bore into the flower, destroying the developing seed. The seed head weevil can reduce seed production by as much as 50%. Use of this weevil as the sole means of controlling Musk Thistle is not very effective. Trichosirocalus horridus attacks the crown area of Musk Thistle rosettes, killing or weakening the plant before it bolts. Use of both weevil species together may prove to be an effective biological control program. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Musk Thistle, depending upon where the thistle is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®); 2,4-D(many different formulations); chlorsulfuron (Telar®); clopyralid (Curtail®, Stinger®, Transline®); glyphosate (Roundup®, Rodeo®) and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Musk Thistle. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Pasture and Riparian Sites Option #1 Biological and Chemical: Release of Trichosirocalus borridus can be made at the appropriate time of the summer. Rhinocyllus conicus is well established in Weld County and should already be infesting the stand. A herbicide application can then be made to Musk Thistle at the flower stage. Telar or Escort should be used when treating Musk Thistle in the flower stage. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the flower stage in order to allow the seed head weevil to complete its life cycle. Use of herbicides to rosettes in the spring or fall should not be carried out where Trichosirocalus horridus was released. Use of herbicides at different times of the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Option #2 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out throughout the summer when Musk Thistle is in the bud to early flower stage. A herbicide application can than be made in October to the fall rosettes and any bolted plants. Option#3 Mechanical Control Only: Multiple mowings (two to four) can be carried out throughout the summer when Musk Thistle is in the bud stage, keeping it from producing seed. If mowing occurs mid 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 14 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 15 to late flower stage, the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. Option #4 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring and fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Road Rights-of-Way and other Non Crop Areas Option#1 Biological and Chemical Control: Same as for Option #1 in pasture and riparian sites. Option #2 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing pass can be made when Musk Thistle is in the bud stage. A herbicide application can be made in the fall to the rosettes and re-bolted plants. Option #3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring and the fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. SCOTCH THISTLE: Scotch Thistle is a biennial plant that reproduces only by seed. Rosettes are formed during the first year of growth and the plants bolt and set seeds the second year. The leaves are densely covered with hair, giving the plant a grayish-green color. Scotch Thistle is primarily found in pastures and riparian sites (South Platte River Drainage) and along roadside rights-of-way and other non-crop areas in southern Weld County. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Maintaining pastures and riparian sites in good condition is the primary method of culturally managing Scotch Thistle. Promoting good grass growth by proper grazing management and fertilizing according to soil testing recommendations will help prevent establishment of Scotch Thistle. b. Mechanical Control: Scotch Thistle can be efficiently controlled mechanically. Severing the roots below ground with a shovel or hoe or mowing Scotch Thistle every time it reaches bud to early flower stage will reduce, if not eliminate seed production. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage, the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. c. Biological Control: No biological control agents are available for Scotch Thistle. One weevil species, Rhinocyllus conicus, will move from Musk Thistle to Scotch Thistle; however, effective control of Scotch Thistle has not been demonstrated. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 15 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 16 d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Scotch Thistle, depending upon where the thistle is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®); 2,4-D (many different formulations); chlorsulfuron (Telar®); metsulfuron (Escort®); clopyralid (Curtail®); Stinger®; Transline® and glyphosate (Roundup®, Rodeo®) and any other EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Scotch Thistle. 2. Integrated Management Options By Site a. Pastures and Riparian Sites Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Multiple mowings (two to four) can be carried out throughout the summer when Scotch Thistle is in the bud stage, keeping it from producing seed. A herbicide application can than be made in October to the fall rosettes and any bolted plants. Option#2 Mechanical Control Only: Multiple mowings (two to four) can be carried out throughout the summer when Scotch Thistle is in the bud stage, keeping it from producing seed. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage, the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. Option #3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring and fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non Crop Areas Option#1 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing pass can be made when Scotch Thistle is in the bud stage. A herbicide application can be made to rebolted plants in the bud stage and/or to fall regrowth. Option #2 Chemical Control: Herbicides can be used in the spring and the fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. FIELD BINDWEED: Field Bindweed is a deep rooted creeping perennial plant that reproduces by seed and horizontal roots. Bindweed seed can survive in soil up to 40 years; therefore, it is important that bindweed be kept from going to seed. Field Bindweed is found throughout Weld County in most habitat types including: rangeland, pastures, along roadside rights-of-way and in various crop and non-cropland sites. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 16 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 17 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses can be an effective management tool in providing plant competition against bindweed. Selecting the proper native grass and/or improved cultivar grass seed mix for a site specific location is important. For site specific reseeding recommendations the Natural Resource Conservation Service and the CSU Extension Office can be contacted. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Field Bindweed can only realistically be carried out in cultivated cropland by discing and cultivating every 3 weeks. This would keep Field Bindweed from producing seed and would start to reduce root reserves. Mowing is not effective due to the creeping nature of bindweed. Discing in range, pasture or roadside is not environmentally sound. c. Biological Control: There are currently no biological control agents on Field Bindweed that are cleared for release in the United States; however, research is in process. Grazing with livestock (cattle or sheep), with proper stocking rates, can be an effective means of keeping bindweed from going to seed in range and pasture sites. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Field Bindweed, depending upon where the bindweed is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel ®); 2,4-D(many different formulations); glyphosate (Roundup®, Rodeo®) and any other EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Field Bindweed. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range and Pasture land Option #1 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application using short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D, can be made, followed by reseeding in fall with a competitive sod forming grass mix. In addition, fertilization according to soil tests or irrigation could be instituted to stimulate increased grass growth. Option #2 Biological Control: Grazing with cattle and sheep throughout the summer and fall will keep Field Bindweed from going to seed and may reduce the underground root reserve. Option#3 Biological and Chemical Control: Grazing with cattle or sheep from May through early September followed by a herbicide treatment in late September or early October. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 17 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 18 Option #4 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used during the flower stage typically in June and July, and in the fall prior to a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non Crop Areas Option #1 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application using short residual herbicides, such asglyphosate and/or 2,4-D, can be made followed by reseeding in the fall with a competitive sod forming grass mix. Option #2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide can be used during the flower stage, typically in June and July, and in the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for roadsides and other non cropland areas will be used. c. Cropland Sites: Field Bindweed is found in almost every crop grown in Weld County. Prescription weed management measures developed by Colorado State University weed scientists and the Weld County Extension Agronomist can be used. C. PREVENTION MEASURES Preventive control means using measures which will stop or forestall weeds from contaminating an area. Establishing preventive measures are often the most practical and cost effective means of weed control. The preventive measures which seem most practical for Weld County are as follows: 1. establishing weed free seed and mulch requirements for reclamation of disturbed sites, 2. promoting the Colorado Weed Free Hay and Forage program, 3. prioritizing weed management areas along routes of dispersal, and 4. identifying noxious weed species in counties bordering Weld County. 1. Weed Free Seed and Mulch Standards Where the ground is disturbed by activities, such as road preparation for road resurfacing, sand and gravel lot operations and oil and gas well operations, weeds will be the first plants to colonize or re-vegetate the site. It is important that these sites be reclaimed so that noxious weeds do not become established. Weld County plans to establish standards within two to four years for using weed free seed and mulch on all county operations concerned with the reclamation of disturbed sites, such as on roadside resurfacing projects and sand and gravel lot operations. Additional regulations may be considered for similar operations being carried out on private land. 960121 ORD169 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 18 OF 24 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 19 2. Weed Free Hay and Forage Program Standards have been developed that enable growers the ability to have their hay and forage certified as noxious weed free. These standards will encourage growers to produce noxious weed free hay and forage so that it can be shipped and used anywhere in the U.S. (particularly where noxious weed free standards currently exist). The Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist will promote the Colorado Weed Free Forage Standards through the use of seminars, radio spots and newspaper articles. 3. Prioritizing Weed Management Areas Along Routes of Dispersal Weeds are spread rapidly through the dispersal of weed seeds in air and water. Consequently, high weed seed dispersal areas are associated with rights-of-way, such as along all roads and railroads and along waterways, i.e., along the Poudre, South Platte, St. Vrain and Little Thompson Rivers and irrigation canals. The County Public Works Department will carry out a noxious weed control program on all county roads from May through September. The noxious weeds targeted for control include: Canada, Musk, Scotch and Bull Thistle; Leafy Spurge; Russian, Diffuse and Spotted Knapweed; Field Bindweed; whitetop; and wild proso millet. In addition, contact will continue to be made with the Department of Transportation, all irrigation and ditch companies in the county, the Union Pacific, Burlington Northern and Great Western Railroad companies, and the oil and gas companies operating within the county. Information regarding the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Act will be distributed and their cooperation will be encouraged. Assistance in helping them develop their integrated weed management programs will be offered. In working with landowners on private property, all lands bordering the rivers in the county will be considered high priority areas. Landowner compliance with the Undesirable Plant Management Act will be encouraged. 4. Identifying Noxious Weeds in Bordering Counties That Do Not Occur in Weld County Contact will continue to be made with the weed control departments in the bordering counties to identify the noxious weed species which occur in each county that would threaten Weld County. Plans have been developed to monitor the borders of Weld County, as necessary. 960121 ORD169 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 19 OF 24 RE: ORDINANCE NO, 169-A PAGE 20 D. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS Education of the public is one of the most important components of a Weed Management program. Emphasis will be placed on continuing a multifaceted educational program. The following programs have been instituted in the past and will continue to be conducted every year. 1. Timely newspaper articles concerned with weed identification and management. 2. Timely radio broadcasts following the information in the newspaper articles. 3. Conducting landowner weed management seminars and calibration workshops. 4. Having an educational booth at the Colorado Farm Show. 5. Utilizing brochures and CSU Service in Action brochures to hand out to individual landowners. E. MAPPING Establishing an accurate baseline map of the existing noxious weed infestations in the county is extremely important for the ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness of the county weed management program. Therefore, a computerized mapping program will be established that will map the noxious weeds established in Weld County. County roadsides will be mapped using a computer and printer/datalogger on the spray equipment. Private and state land will be mapped by Public Works Department personnel taking aerial maps from the county assessors office into the field and mapping on site. Through the use of the Auto CADD computer mapping program, the noxious weed infestations will be mapped. All mapping information will be stored in the county IBM computer systems and can be retrieved for future evaluation. F. ESTABLISHING COOPERATIVE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENTS Contact will be made with the following agencies concerning compliance with the Colorado Undesirable Plant Management Act: 1. Colorado Department of Transportation 2. Colorado State Department of Parks and Recreation 3. Colorado Division of Wildlife 4. Colorado State Land Board 5. U.S. Forest Service 960121 ORD169 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 20 OF 24 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 21 Assistance will be offered in helping each agency develop integrated weed management plans for their lands. Actual assistance in carrying out the weed control programs on their properties will also be offered. Cooperative intergovernmental agreements can be established if Weld County is asked to assist in implementing the weed control measures. G. ADOPT A ROADSIDE PROGRAM An "Adopt a Roadside" program will be established which will give landowners the ability to take the responsibility to manage the noxious weeds on the county rights-of-way that borders their property. Landowners who are chemically sensitive or for some reason do not want chemicals sprayed or mowing activities carried out along their property, may take the responsibility for managing the noxious weeds on the roadside rights-of-way. Landowner agreements with specific requirements for compliance will be established. H. ENFORCEMENT ON PRIVATE AND PUBLIC PROPERTY Cooperation from all landowners (private and state) will be encouraged through positive communication by mail and through personal contact. When weed control measures are not carried out by a landowner, enforcement measures may have to be instituted. All procedures as established by the Undesirable Plant Management Law, CRS §35-5.5-109, the Pest Control Districts Law, CRS §35-5-108, Weld County Ordinance 169-A, and any and all federal, state, and local regulations will be followed, prior to any enforcement activities being carried out on private or public property. Integrated weed management plans will be requested from certain landowners, as determined by the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist and the Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board. Work priorities must be established due to the size of the county and the number of landowners with existing noxious weed problems. The following list prioritizes where enforcement activities will be carried out in ranking order of importance: 1. Lands bordering all waterways (rivers and irrigation ditches). 2. Complaint properties. 3. Landowners identified as negligent in the past. 4. Landowners with twenty percent (20%) or more of their property infested with noxious weeds. V. EVALUATION OF PROGRAM The goals and the plan of work established in Sections III. and IV. of this Ordinance 169-A will be reviewed and evaluated at the end of every year. A written evaluation will be prepared establishing additions or changes in the plan of work for the following year. Any 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 21 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 22 additions or changes must be recommended by the Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board and approved by the Board of County Commissioners. The Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan shall be reviewed and amended, as needed, at least every three years (CRS §35-5.5-107(4)(a)). ARTICLE 2 — ENFORCEMENT OF UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN AUTHORIZED AGENT FOR ENFORCEMENT Pursuant to CRS §35-5.5-105(2), the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist, his employees and agents, are hereby authorized to enforce the above-stated Undesirable Plant Management Plan in the unincorporated areas of County of Weld, State of Colorado, by utilizing those procedures set forth in CRS §§35-5-108, 35-5-109, and 35-5.5-108, and any other applicable State and Federal Statutes, rules, regulations, and ordinances, including the remaining provisions of this Ordinance No. 169-A. II. RIGHT OF ENTRY Prior to entering private lands for the purpose of enforcing the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan as set forth herein, the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist shall first obtain a"right of entry"from the Board of County Commissioners, no less than ten days after a Notice to Control Identified Undesirable Plants has been sent to the owner or occupant of the private lands and said owner or occupant has failed to comply with said notice. III. MAILING OF ASSESSMENTS All assessments for the whole cost of any enforcement work performed by the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist or his designee(s) upon private lands, including up to 15%for inspection and other incidental costs in connection therewith, shall be mailed to the landowner or occupant by certified mail. Failure to receive said assessment shall not act as a defense to said assessment. IV. FAILURE TO PAY ASSESSMENT Any assessment which is not paid within thirty-three (33) days after the date of mailing by certified mail to the landowner or occupant of private lands upon which the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist or his designee(s) have performed enforcement work, shall constitute a lien against each lot or tract of land until paid and may be certified by resolution of the Board of County Commissioners to the Weld County Treasurer's Office to be collected in the same manner as provided for collection of taxes upon the private lands in accordance with CRS §§35-5-108 and 35-5.5-109(5)(a). 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 22 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 23 ARTICLE 3 -- SEVERABILITY If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance No. 169-A is, for any reason, held or decided to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions. The Board of County Commissioners, Weld County, Colorado, hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance No. 169-A, and in each and every section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause and phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, or phrases might be declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. ARTICLE 4 -- LIABILITY This Ordinance No. 169-A shall not be intended to create a civil cause of action against the Board of County Commissioners, Weld County, Colorado, or any other person that may administer this Ordinance No. 169-A in any manner. ARTICLE 5 -- EFFECTIVE DATE This Ordinance No. 169-A shall become effective five (5) days after its final public notice, in accordance with Section 3-14(2) of the Weld County Home Rule Charter. ARTICLE 6 --COMPLIANCE WITH NOTICE REQUIREMENTS The Board of County Commissioners hereby states and affirms that by following the reading and publication schedule set forth below, it has and hereby does comply with the notice requirements of CRS §35-5.5-108. ARTICLE 7 - NO WAIVER OF IMMUNITIES/NO CREATION OF DUTIES. STANDARD OF CARE. OR RIGHTS FOR THIRD PARTIES No portion of this Ordinance 169-A shall be deemed to constitute a waiver of any immunities which Weld County, Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, or any pest control districts and/or their Boards, or the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board or their officers or employees may possess, nor shall any provision of this Ordinance 169-A be construed to create any duty, standard of care or rights in favor of any third parties with the respect to any obligation created by this Ordinance 169-A. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Board, if any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held or decided to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions hereof. The Board of County Commissioners hereby declares that it would have enacted this Ordinance in each and every section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, and phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, or phrases might be declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. 960121 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 23 OF 24 ORD169 RE: ORDINANCE NO. 169-A PAGE 24 The above and foregoing Ordinance Number 169-A was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by the following vote on the 1st day of April, A.D., 1996. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS W D COUNTY, COLORADO O \./ Slid/ \� � E � 49.1dcfrph /t. �l/4-ct- 1, arCi Barba J. Kirkmeyer C air 1861 (00 '°-'•'• o ty Clerk to the Board e eft Ba Pr ee ainrciN ; eputy Clerk tSthe Board J Dale K. Hall O D AS TO FOR Constance L. Harbert Ler n ,/J I y�I1�(J ounty tto ey . H. Initial Publication: February 1, 1996, in the North Weld Herald First Reading: March 4, 1996 Publication: March 7, 1996, in the North Weld Herald Second Reading: March 18, 1996 Publication: March 21, 1996, in the North Weld Herald Final Reading: April 1, 1996 Publication: April 4, 1996, in the North Weld Herald Effective Date: April 9, 1996 2484433 B-1541 P-89 04/05/96 02:50P PG 24 OF 24 960121 ORD169 AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION STATE OF COLORADO ss. COUNTY OF WELD I, Bruce J. Bormann, of said County of Weld, being duly sworn, say that I am Publisher of THE NORTH WELD HERALD a weekly newspaper having a general circulation in said County and State, published in the Town of Eaton, in said County and State; and that the notice, of which the annexed is a true copy, has been published in said weekly newspaper for erne- successive week(s),that the notice was published in the regular and entire issue of every number of the paper during the period and time of publication, and in the newspaper proper and not in a supplement, and that the publication of said notice: ✓ L���_� //9- A - et,:, was in said newspaper bearing the date(s) of: Thursday,the day of /719✓, / , 1996 Thursday,the day of , 1996 Thursday,the day of , 1996 Thursday,the day of , 1996 and that the said THE NORTH WELD HERALD has been published continuously and uninterruptedly for the period of 52 consecutive weeks, in said County and State, prior to the date of first publication of said notice, and the same is a newspaper within the meaning of an Act to regulate printing of legal notices and adverti ents, approved 18, 1931, and all prior acts so far in orce. BR E J. BORMANN, PUBLISHER Publication Cost: $ {5. Subscribed and sworn to before me f"P........ ... this G'/A day of April, 1996 ERIKA C. e" � ti BAGLEY I ERIKA C. BAGLE, NoT*C (�F COL My commission expires October 21, 1999 -Arcs_ THE RALi THURSDAY,PRILD4,1996 D p B c ORDINANCE NO.169-A IN THE MATTER OF REPEALING AND REENACTING ORDINANCE NO.169,THE UNDESIRABLE PLANT.MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE COUNTY OF WELD,STATE OF COLORADO BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF WELD,STATE OF COLORADO: WHEREAS,the Board of County Commissioners of the'County of Weld, State of Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter,Is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of the County of Weld,State of Colorado,and WHEREAS,on May 4, 1992,the Board of County Commissioners adopted Weld County Ordinance 169,which became effective May 12, 1992,and which provides for the adoption and enforcement of an undesirable plant management plan in Weld County,and WHEREAS,said Ordinance 169 designates five(5)weed species as undesirable and mandated for management in Weld County, those being: Leafy Spurge (Euphorbja esula), Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon ropers), Diffuse Knapweed (Centilitres diffuse), Spotted Knapweed(Centaurea macubee),Canada Thistle(Cirsium'arvense),and Musk Thistle(Carduus nutans),and WHEREAS, upon the recommendation of the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board,the Board of County Commissioners hereby finds and determines that there is a need to add two weed species to the list of those currently designated as undesirable and mandated for management in Weld County, the two additions being: Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) and Scotch Thistle(Onopocdum acenfdum),thereby requiring,at a minimum,an amendment to said Ordinance 169,and WHEREAS,upon further recommendation of the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board,the Board of County Commissioners herby finds and determnas.that there is a need to make other revisions to the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan,thereby requiring the repeal end:reenactment of said Ordinance 169. NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Weld,State of Colorado,that Weld County Ordin nce as Numb;umber 189,adopted May 4, 182,be,and hereby is,repealed.and,by and through this Ordinance 169-A, be,and hereby APTICLE 1—WELD COUNTY UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN I. INTRODUCTION A. DESCRIPTION OF THE COLORADO UNDESIRABLE PLANT MANAGEMENT ACT The Colorado Undesirable Plant Management Act, CRS §35.5.5.101, et. seq., (hereinafter the Act")states that certain undesirable plants pose a threat to the continued economic and environmental value of the land in Colorado and that they must be managed by all landowners In the state. The undesirable plants designated for mandatory management statewide are: Leafy Spurge(Euphorbia esula), Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens), Diffuse Kn mipweW...(Centaurs*diffuse)and Spotted Knapweed(Centaurea meadow)..Additional weed species may be 'added to the state(Nat by each local jurisdiction. The Act states such that local governments(cities and counties)are directed tp take the necessary steps to manage the undesirable plants In their respective jurisdictions. They are further directed to appoint an advisory commission whose responsibilities are threefold: 1. Develop recommended management criteria and integrated weed management plans for managing the designated undesirable plants; 2. Recommend the addition, if necessary, of undesirable plants that shall be subject to integrated management 3: Recommend to the county commissioners the names of those landowners who shall be required to submit Integrated weed management plans for managing the undesirable plants on their property. The Act further states that by January 1, 1992, each local governing body is to have developed and adopted an Undesirable Plant Management Plan for,all lands within its jurisdictional boundaries. IL OPTION OF THE COUNTY OFMIELD WEED PROBLEM A. WEED SPECIES IN WELD COUNTY TO BE CONTROLLED,PURSUANT TO WEED CONTROL LAWS The Pest Control Districts Law (CRS 35-5-104) enabled landowners in each county the ability, through a lengthy petitioning and billeting process, to establish weed control districts. Within each weed district, designated species are mandated to be controlled. IA Weld County, nine such weed districts exist. The districts occur in the lower two-thirds bf the County, and the weed species designated for control range from three to seven species, depending upon the weed district. The weed species that are currently being managed in at least a part of Weld County are as follows: purge paorb Leafy Canada Thistle( IC plum atverse), Musk Thistle(Caduua nutans), Feld Bindweed(ConvotWua arvensis), WhltetopK((nCsoprtvirenaad drabs) Russian M (Aergdnon repens Wild Prose MIIet(Parlous,mlleceumm Under the Act(CRS§35.5.5.101, of seq.),there are four weed species which are mandated for county-wide management. They are Leafy Spurge,and Russian,Diffuse and Spotted Knapweed. Canada Thistle,Musk Thistle, Scotch Thistle and Field Bindweed are added to the county-wide undesirable plant list by this Ordinance 169-A,in accordance with CRS§35-5.5-108(3). Of the weed species listed previously, Canada Thistle, Field Bindweed,Leafy Spurge, Musk Thistle, Russian Knapweed,Whitetop and Wild Proso Millet cover the most acreage in Weld County and pose the greatest economic and environmental threat to the county. Diffuse Knapweed is currently localized to a few drainages and rights-of-way in the southwest part of the County,and there is one known Spotted Knapweed Infestation in the County. 111. OBJECTIVES AND GOALS A. STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES The objectives of the Weld County Public Works Department with respect to weed management in Weld County are fourfold: 1. Develop and carry out a comprehensive noxious weed control program on all county rights-of-way and other county property,such as in sand and gravel mining operations,grader shed lots and open space areas. -2. Establish an educational program, by using mailings and holding educational and calibration seminars,that will effectively communicate weed management information to the landowners in the County. 3. Identify non-informed or negligent landowners who are not carrying out weed management programs on their property and provide technical support for establishing weed management plans or enforce on properties, if necessary. 4. Work with all state and federal agencies, through intergovernmental agreements, If necessary, towards establishing effective weed management programs on their property. ., B. SHORT TERM GOALS—(January 1905 tq December Mil) 1. Map all the County roads for noxious weed infestations. 2. Map on a computer program at least half of the landowners that have Leafy Spurge, Canada Thistle and Russian Knapweed infestations. 3. Continue to establish contact with landowners on the South Platte and Poudre Rivers who have noxious weed infestations. 4. Establish educational/calibration seminars(annually)that work directly with 150-200 landowners each year. 5. Have established contact with the Colorado Department of Highways, Department of Parks and Recreation. Colorado Land Board, Division of Wildlife and U.S. Forest Service. Help them develop Weed Management Plans and where appropriate enter into cooperative intergovernmental agreements. 6. HaColorado Department Agriculture vedix totand private edowee biological ontll release sites throughout the county in cooperation with the rs. 7. By 1995,have reduced the noxious weed acreage sprayed on county rights-of-way by 15-20%. C. LONG TERM GOALS—(January 1999 to December 2002) 1. Have mapped on the computer program most noxious weed infestations county-wide, including private, state and federal lands. 2. Have reduced the noxious weed acreage sprayed on county rights-of-way by 40-50%. 3. Have contacted and worked with most landowners county-wide who have a noxious weed infestation. 4. Have established 30-50 biological control release sites in the county. Iv. PLAN OF WORK-IMPLEMENTATION A. DESCRIPTION OF INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES The weed species designated as undesirable and mandated for management are Leafy Spurge (Euphorbfa esule) Russian Knapweed(Acropaon repens),Diffuse Knapweed(Centaurea diffuse), Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea meculose),Canada Thistle(Cirsium arvense)Musk Thistle(Carduus nutens),Scotch Thistle(Onopordum acenrMum) and Field Bindweed (ConvoNulus arvensis). Integrated weed management methods are to be used in measurres;these weed and control measures includingCRS cultural, mechanical, brated iological al amentnd chemical cues onttrroll.e education; purposes)of this plan the following definitions for the control measures will be used. es conducted to favor thewth of 1. Cultural desirable plants over undesirable plants,se l includies ing, but management limited to, maintaining an optimum fe„illiity and plant moisture status In an area, planting at optimum density and spatial arrangement in an area, and planting species most suited to an area. gg management 2. Mechanical includ including, not limited to,tilling,se methodologies buming,flooding,practices mulch ng,that hantl pulling land hoeing.disrupt .ent 3. Biological.Control means the use of organisms such as sheep,goats,cattle,Insects and plant diseases to disrupt the growth of undesirable plants. 4. Chemical Control means the use of herbicides or plant growth regulators to disrupt the growth of undesirable plants. Management of the various undesirable plants will vary depending upon the site where the plant optionsmted below are meant for to provide vh arious s ed mnagemes will entdtechniques for controed for each lling the noxious weted eds inment the various environmental sites they are found. By no means are all the management options mentioned. Additional combinations of management� techniques are possible which may be submitted by private landowners. The integrated Mana management gementt Specialist andthem integritted ated Weed Management Advisory Commissionl landowners will be on the casesld by case County B. INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT.OPTIONS FOR EACH WEED SPECIES LEAFY SPURGE: Leafy Spurge is a deep rooted perennial plant that spreads by seeds and creeping roots. It has a vast underground root system which makes it difficult to control with any one control technique. Leafy Spurge is found primar South irrigation ditches,i in asite sites (al pastures,oats,roadsides such as and waterways the Poudre er non-cropland hiand Platte Rivers)in Weld County and also along 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses and forbs can be an effective management tool. Early emerging plant species that utilize early cse on mooavureesuch uced Smooth huBro a sty and romus inermis)or Crested Wheatgrass d and l (rrt��ropy )festation. Sequential glylimited the phosate d by pa seeding of establish Pubescent nt of new nWheatgrass, EpraimgCrrestedtWheatgrass, Intermediate Wheatgrass, Sherman Big Bluegrass or Bozoisky Russian Wild Rye has shown to be very effective in reducing an existing stand of Leafy Spurge. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Leafy Spurge is difficult at best; however,repeated mowing every 14-21 days throughout the summer, starting before flowering stage, will at least keep the plants from going to seed and may reduce the undergroUnd root reserve. Research results are not available to indicate,whether stand reduction or eradication could be achieved through use of this technique. e. Biological Control: Grazing with sheep and goats throughout the spring, summer, and fall will keep Leafy Spurge from going to seed and may reduce the underground root reserve. This practice may also weaken the plants to make themsusceptible eveal insectspe es that ha e chemical control. been released by the USDA in the United States are showing some control•of Leafy Spurge. Two species of flea beetles,Apthona neva and Aprhone nigriscutis feed on Leafy Spurge. Adults feed on the foliage during the summer and the larvae burrow through the soil and mine the roots and fine root hairs. These insects used alone may not control Leary Spurge. When used along with other insects such as Spurgla Est*a gall midge which feeds on the flowers preventing-seed production, ,they lyeAnp weaken the plant and malts It more gusceptible,to other control methods, particularly clinical control. d. Chemical Control: There,We a nul$er of herbicides labeled for use on Leafyicloram Spurge. Those that can be used 4-0 (many dii bid ceibination with each f t uatWOP); glyphosater are: and Rodeo®)fosamine (Banvel®); 2,4-D (many�kr rtes (Krenite®)and any EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Leafy Spurge. 2.' Integrated Management Options by She • a. Range,Pasture and Riparian Sites g late i Au 01 gust or early and Chemical followed by Grazing herbicide sheep or late froSeptember)l or early October. Option 02 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Apthona nigriscutis, Apthona (lava, Spurgia Esula, and other species conducive to the area can be made. A herbicide treatment can then be made during the true flower stage (where Insects were not • released) and in the fall where insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out In the fall where insects are used. Use of herbicides at different times if the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Option 03 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first mowing cycle at the bud stage. Mowing should stop during late August followed by a herbicide treatment during late September or early October(before a hard freeze). Option 04 Biological or Mechanical Control Only: The use of sheep or goats or mowing should be used all season to keep Leafy Spurge from going to seed. Whether this method will keep the existing infestation from spreading by underground root growth is uncertain. Option MS Chemical Control Only: Herbicides should be used in the spring,early summer during the true flower stage and in the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Along Irrigation Ditches Option 01 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Apthona nigriscutis, Apthona flays,Spurgia Esula and other species conducive tog the area could be made. An kept the eplants fromgoingIto seed)dand/ored tin the fall just before the true flower ta hard freezI the e. Esula has not P Option s2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring or early summer during the true flower stage and in the fell just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. a. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Areas early flower s age. A herbicide application Control: be made at the true flower le can be carried st geut at the bud to Option*2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used In the spring or early summer during the true flower stage and In the fall just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for use on roadsides and other non-cropland areas would be used. RUSSIAN KNAPWEED: Russian Knapweed Is a non-native perennial plant that spreads by seeds and creeping roots. It has the ability to release chemicals into the environment as foliage decays which inhibit the growth of surrounding vegetation (allelopathic properties). Thus, once established, Russian Knapweed can colonize an area rapidly. Russian Knapweed is found primarily in range and pastures,roadsides and other non-cropland sites in Weld County. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses such as Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis)will help to compete with Russian Knapweed and slow its spread. In addition,stimulating grass growth by and/or other controlincrtechniques such ass s judiciouschemical controls woud have to be implemented in order to give grasses a chance to compete. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Russian Knapweed could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14-21 days. This would at least keep Russian Knapweed from going an existing Whether e s not known. control technique will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce c. Biological Control: There are currently no biological centre) agents available for Russian Knapweed. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Russian Knapweed. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: -chiorsulfuron (Telar®); picloram (Tordon®); 2,4-D (many different formulations); glyphosate (Roundup®.and Oedema))and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Russian Knapweed. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range and Pastures Option 01 Mechanical and Chemical: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first and successive mowing cycles carried out at the bud stage. A herbicide treatment can then be made In the fall before a hard freeze. Option e2 Cultural and Chemical: An herbicide application,using short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be made followed up by reseeding with a competitive grass such as rrme or er sod increased forming species. In addition, fertilization or irrigation could be in ste grass dowth. uiuring the emChemica bud stage,bllonm to post-botrol Only: om and/or irbicide n thetions can be made to Russian fall,depending upon herbicide used. b. ROW RightsoriWay and other Non-Crop Areas Option stage.MechanicalnerbI end Chemical:p icaticm a One mowing n be ae cucle can carried out the bud to early flower and/or i the fall,ll depending pon the herbicide used.during the bud stage, bloom to post-bloom Option s2 Cultural and Chemical Control: Use of short residual herbicides such as glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be used in the early summer during the bud stage. Seeding with perennial grasses I such as Smooth Brome, Luna Pubescent Wheatgrass, Ephraim Crested Wheatgrass, Intend Intermediate ut Werhenatgrass, he summer, bat n Big ggpura Bluegrasstime. Bozoisky Russian Wild Rye can than be Option 03 Chemical Only: Herbicide applications can be made during the bud stage, bloom to post bloom and/or in the fall,depending upon the herbicide used. - DIFFUSE KNAPWEED: Diffuse Knapweed is a non-native, biennial to short-lived perennial fort that reproduces by seed. It spreads rapidly by the mature plant breaking off at ground level and being blown with the wind, dispersing seed. It is a pioneer species that will quickly invade disturbed,dry sites. Diffuse Knapweed-is found in the southwest part of Weld County along dohs ay, dry pasture sites and In gravelly riparian sites, such as along Boulder Creek and the St.Wain and South PlaitsRivers. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Cultural Control of Diffuse Knapweed is similar to Russian Knapweed in that seeding with perennial grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass will help to compete with Diffuse Knapweed and slow its spread. Seeding alone in infested sites will not, however,control the existing stand. b. Mechanical\Control: Mowing Diffuse Knapweed when it is in the bud stage and again when it is flowering can significantly reduce seed production. Keeping Diffuse Knapweed from going to seed over a number of years can eventually eliminate an infestation,once the seed source in the soil is depleted. c. Biological Control: Two species of picture-winged flies, Urophore affinis and U. quadrifasciata have,demonstrated the ability to reduce the seed production of diffuse and.Spotted Knapweed. The flies lay eggs on the developing seed heads. As a result of the larvae feeding on the flowering heads, the plants produce galls which reduces seed production. The Colorado insectary is currently rearing these two flies and has made releases in the state the last three years. d. Chemical,Control: There are a few herbicides labeled for use on Diffuse Knapweed. Those that can be used Independently or in combination with each other are: picloram(Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®);glyphosate (Roundup®); 2,4-D (many different formulations) and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Diffuse Knapweed. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Pasture and Riparian Areas Option e1 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide application can be made in early summer when Diffuse Knapweed is in the rosette through bolting stage. Reseeding with competitive perennial grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass can be followed later in the summer depending upon the herbicide used and rate of application. Option#2 Biological and Chemical Control: The release of insects such as Urophora affinis and U. quaddfasciata can be made. A herbicide treatment can then be made from the rosette through •bolting stage (where insects were not released) and in the fall where insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the fall, where insects are used.'The use of herbicides at different times of the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Option#3 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out when Diffuse Knapweed is in the bud stage and again at flowering. A herbicide application can then be made to any plants that have re-bolted, if necessary. Option#4 Mechanical Control Only: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season which will reduce seed set. Option its Chemical Control Only: Herbicide application can be made during the rosette stage, spring or fall,and while bolting. b. Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Areas Option#1 Cultural and Chemical Control: Same as for Option#1 in pasture and riparian areas. Option#2 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing operation can be carried out when Diffuse Knapweed is In the bud stage. If necessary, a herbicide application can be made to plants that have re-bolted. Option#3 Mechanical Control Only: Same as for Option#4 in pasture and riparian areas. Option#4 Chemical Control Only: Same as for Option#5 in pasture and riparian areas. SPOTTED KNAPWEED: Spotted Knapweed is a non-native, perennial forb that reproduces by seed. It is a highly competitive plant in rangeland sites that will exclude most grasses and forts with time. There is limited Spotted Knapweed Infestations currently along the South Platte River drainage in Weld County. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Cultural control of Spotted Knapweed is similar to such control of Russian and Diffuse Knapweed In that seeding with perennial grasses such as Smooth Brame and crested wheatgrass will help to compete with Spotted Knapweed and slow its spread. Seeding infested sites will not,however,control the existing stand. In range and pasture conditions, good grazing management practices Will help to reduce the spread of the knapweeds in general. b. Mechanical Control: Mechanical control of Spotted Knapweed could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14.21 days. This would at least keep Spotted Knapweed from going to seed. Whether this control technique will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce an existing stand is not known. c. Biological Control: The same as what was developed under biological control for Diffuse Knapweed. d. Chemical Control: There are a few herbicides labeled for use on Spotted Knapweed. Those that can be used independently or in combination with each other are: picloram(Tordon®),dicamba (Banal®),2,4-D(many different formulations and clopyrald and 2,4-D(Curtail®). CANADA THISTLE: Canada Thistle is an aggressive,creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and vegetative buds in the root system. It is a difficult plant to control because of its extensive root system. Vertical roots may grow 6-15 foot deep and horizontal roots may extend 15 feet or more. Canada Thistle Is the most widespread noxious weed in .Wald.Ceunty. It can be found in most habitat types, igglgding: pastures, riparian sites (along waterways such as the Poudre, South Platte, St. Vrain and Big Thompson Rivers),Irrigation ditches, along roadside rights-of-way and in the various crop and non-cropland sites. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Plant competition from various grasses and from alfalfa can be an effective Continua to next page Ordinance NO. 169-A management tool. Early emerging grass species such as Smooth Brome and Crested Continued VVheafgrass can be used to compete with Canada Thistle and slow the spread and establishment of new infestations. Competition alone,however,is seldom effectve on Canada Thistle. Mechanical Control: Mechanical Control of Canada Thistle could be carried out throughout the summer with repeated mowing every 14 days. Such method keeps Canada Thistle from going to seed; however, mowing,has shown to stimulate new shoot growth from roots. Consequently, mowing alone may Increase shoot density in an established stand. Whether consistent mowing for consecutive years(two to three years)will reduce the root mass and subsequently reduce an existing stand is unknown.• c. Biological Control: There is one Insect species,a weevil, called Ceutorynchus Ilture,that is currently being used as a biological control agent on Canada Thistle in Colorado. The female lays eggs on the underside of the leaves in early s rin and then the larvae bore Into the main leaf vein and migrate down to the crown of the plant. The holes created by the larvae open up Canada Thistle to secondary infection. Where high numbers of the larvae occur death ohCanada Thistle can occur. d. Chemical Control: There are a number.of herbicides labeled for use on Canada Thistle, depending upon where the thistle Is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram Tordori®); dk:amba (Banvel®); 2,4-D (many glyphosate• diff (Tabu.);formulations); chlorsulfuron (Te ®); clopyralid (Curtail®, Stinger®, Tramline.);(Roundup®Rodeo®) and any EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Canada Thstle. 2. Integrated Management Options by Site a. Range,Pasture and Riparian Sites rryy Oduring the arlyosummer. A herbicide aple.al and Chemical: plication of the a )then the madenat littera can bud stage be insects were not released) and In the fall where Insects were released. Herbicide applications should only be carried out In the fall,.whete Insects were directly released. Use of herbicides at different times of the growing season cpri be instituted as additional IPM research is coordinated and recommendations are developed. Option#2 Mechanical and Chemical: Mowing can be carried out throughout the season with the first mowing cycle at the bud stage. Mowing should stop during late August followed by a herbicide treatment during late September.through October,before a hard freeze. Option 413 Cultural end Chemical Control: A herbiclde.application, using short residual herbicides such as,glyphosate and/or 2,4-D can be made followed up by reseeding with a competitive grass such as smooth brome or other sod forming species. In addition,ferakzatkxi or Irrigation could be instituted to stimulate increase grass growth. • Option#4 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide applications can be made to Canada Thistle from rosette to the bud stage,and/or in the fail,depending upon the herbicide used. 0. Road Rights-of-Way and Other Non-Crop Ames mowing early owerrnstage.Ahherbcide application anical and lcann be: One de from cl rosette to bud stage and/or in the fah depending upon the herbicide used. Option#2 Cultural and Chemical Control: A herbicide eppliation can be made In early summer when Canada Thistle Is In the rosette through bud stage. Reseeding with competitive perennial grasses such as smooth brome and crested wheatgrass can be followed later in the summer depending upon the herbicide used and rate of application, Option#3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide applications can be made from rosette to bud stage, and/or in the fall,depending upon the herbicide used. c. Cropland Sites Canada Thistle is found in almost every crop grown In Weld County. Prescription weed management measures developed by Colorado State University weed scientists and the Weld County Extension Agronomist will be used. MUSK E: Musk Thistle is a ground)are(formed during the first yeariof�growth and the plantnial plant that duces bolts and only seed the second ttes yclump of leaves on the ear. It is a prolific seed producer with a single plant producing up to 20,000 seeds. Musk Thistle is found primarily in pastures and riparian sites(along waterways such as the South Platte, St.Vraln, Big Thompson,and Little Thompson drainages and Boulder Creek)and along irrigation ditches,roadside rights-of-way and other non crop areas. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Maintaining pastures and riparian sites In good condition is the primary method of culturally managing Musk Thistle. Promoting good grass growth by proper grazing management and fertilizing according to soil testing recommendations will prevent establishment of Musk Thistle. b. Mechanical Control: Musk Thistle can be effectively controlled mechanically. Severing the roots below ground with a shovel or hoe or mowing Musk Thistle every time it reaches early flower stage will reduce, If not eliminate seed production. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage,the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. c. Biological Control: Two species of weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus (seed head weevil) and Tnchoslrocalus horridus,attack two different sites of Musk Thistle. The seed head weevil,as Its name implies, attacks the seeds of Musk Thistle. Eggs are laid by the female on the back of developing flowers and then the larvae bore into the flower,destroying the developing seed. The seed head weevil can reduce seed production by as much is 50%. Use of this weevil as the sole means of controlling Musk Thistle is not very effective. Tdchosirocalus horrldus attacks the crown area of Musk Thistle rosettes, killing or weakening the plant before it bolts. Use of both weevil species together may prove to be an effective biological control program. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use onMusk Thistle,depending with k other c where ompoe tounds a is rt:: picloramnd. ((Therbordoosn®); dicat can mbaeed(Banvel®); 2,4-D or in combination formulations); chlorsulfuron (Teta*); clopyralid (Curtail®, Stinger®, Transkne®); glyphosate • (Roundup®, Rodeo®)and any EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Musk Thistle. 2. - Integrated Managementt Options by Sits a. Pasture and Riparian Sites Option #1 Biological and Chemical: Release of Trichosirocalus borridus can be made at the appropriate time of the summer. Rhinocyllus conicus is well established in Weld County and should already be infesting the stand. A herbicide application can then be made to Musk Thistle at the flower stage,Teter or Escort should be used when treating Musk Thistle In Me flower stage. Herbicide applications should only be carried out in the flower stage in order to allow the seed head weevil to complete its life cycle. Use of herbicides to rosettes in the spring or fall should not be carried out where Trichosirocalus hordtlus was,released. Use of herbicides at different times of the growing season can be instituted as additional IPM research is conducted and recommendations are developed. Opton#2 Mechanical end Chemical Control: Mowing can be carried out throughout the summer when Musk Thistle is in the bud to early flower stage. A herbicide application can than be made in October to the fall rosettes and any bolted plants. Option 03 Mechanical Control Only: Multiple mowings(two to four)can be carried out throughout the summer when Musk Thistle is in the bud stage, keeping It from producing seed. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage,the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. Option 04 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring and fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the'site intended will be used. b. Road Rights-of-Way and other Non Crop Areas Option Cl Biological and Chemical Control: Same as for Option e1 in pasture and riparian sites. Option 02 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing pass can be made when Musk Thistle is in the bud stage. A herbicide application can be made in the fall to the rosettes and re-bolted plants. Option#3 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used in the spring and the fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. SCOTCH THISTLE:Scotch Thistle is a biennial plant that reproduces only by seed. Rosettes are formed during the first year of growth and the plants bolt and set seeds the second year. The leaves are densely covered with hair,giving the plant a grayish-green color. Scotch Thistle is primarily found in pastures and riparian sites (South Platte River Drainage)and along roadside rights-of-way and other non-crop areas in southern Weld County, 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Maintaining pastures and riparian sites in good condition is the primary method of culturally managing Scotch Thistle. Promoting good grass growth by proper grazing management and fertilizing according to soil testing recommendations will help prevent establishment of Scotch Thistle. b. Mechanical Control: Scotch Thistle can be efficiently controlled mechanically. Severing the roots below ground with a shovel or hoe or mowing Scotch Thistle every time it reaches bud to early flower stage will reduce, If not eliminate seed production. If mowing occurs mid to late • flower stage,the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. c. Biological-Control: No biological control agents are available for Scotch Thistle. One weevil species, Rhinocyllus conicus, will move from Musk Thistle to Scotch Thistle; however, effective control of Scotch Thistle has not been demonstrated. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Scotch Thistle, depending upon where the thistle is found. The herbicides that can be used Independently or in combination with other compounds are: picloram (Tordon®); dicamba (Banvel®)• 2,4-D (many different formulations); chkersulfuron (Tetar®); metsulfuron (Escort®); clopyralid (Curtail®); Stinger®; Transline® and glyphosate (Roundup®, Rodeo®) and any other EPA approved chemical labeled for use on Scotch Thistle. 2. Integrated Management Options By Site a. Pastures end Riparian Sites Option 01 Mechanical and Chemical Control: Multiple mowings(two to four)can ba carried out throughout the summer when Scotch Thistle is in the bud stage, keeping it from producing seed. A herbicide application can than be made in October to the fall rosettes and any bolted plants. Option#2 Mechanical Control Only:Multiple mowings(two to four)can be carried out hroughout the summer when Scotch Thistle Is in the bud stage,keeping it from producing seed. If mowing occurs mid to late flower stage,the thistle should be gathered and burned to destroy any seed that has developed. �. Option 413 Chemical Control Only:Herbicides can be used in the spring and fall when the plant is in the rosette stage.i,Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Road RIghts-ol-Way end Other Non Crop Areas Option #1 Mechanical and Chemical Control: One mowing pass can be made when Scotch Thistle is in the bud stage. A herbicide application can be made to rebolted plants h the bud stage end or to fall regrowth. Option 02 Chemical Control: Herbicides can be used In the spring and the fall when the plant is in the rosette stage. Only the herbicides d labeled for the site intended will beces y used. r000tss, Bindweed eedield c n survive n soil up to 40a deep years;thereforre,it is I perennialmportant that bindweed ant that be ked and horizontal ept pt from going to seed. Field Bindweed Is found throughout Weld County in most habitat types including: rangeland, pastures, along roadside rights-of-way an in various crop and non-cropland sites. 1. Control Measures a. Cultural Control: Seeding perennial grasses can be an effective management tool in providing plant competition against bindweed. Selecting the proper native grass and/or improved cultivar grass seed mix for a site specific location is important. For site specific reseeding recommendations the Natural Resource Conservation Service and the CSU Extension Office can be contacted. b. Mocha foal Control:Mechan'cal control of Reid Bindweed can only realistically be carried out in cult$$atatl cropland by dieting and cultivating every 3 weeks. This would keep Field Bindweed from producing seed and would start to reduce root reserves. Mowing is not effective due to the creeping nature of bindweed. Discing in range,pasture or roadside is not environmentally sound. Biological Control: there are currently no biological control agents on Field Bindweed that are • cleared for release in the United States; however,research is in process. Grazing with livestock (cattle or sheep),with proper stocidng rates,can be an effective means of keeping bindweed from • E NORTH WELD THTHU SDAY,APRIL 4,1998 13 going to seed in range and pasture sites. d. Chemical Control: There are a number of herbicides labeled for use on Field Bindweed, depending upon where the bindweed Is found. The herbicides that can be used independently or in combination with other compounds are:picloram(Tordone);dicamba(Barone S);2,4-D(many different formulations);GNphoeate(Roundups, Rodeo.)and any other EPA approved chemicals labeled for use on Field Bindweed. 2. Integrated Management Options 4y Site a. Range end Pasture land Option 01 Cultural and Chemical Control:A herbicide application using short residual herbicides such ae lyphosate and/or 2,4-D, can be made,followed by reseeding in fall with a competitive sod f gra ss ass mix. In addition, fertilization according to soil tests or irrigation could be instituted o stimulate increased grass growth. Option 02 Biological Control:Grazing with cattle and sheep throughout the summer and fall will keep Field Bindweed from going to seed and may reduce the underground root reserve. Option 13Biological� and Chemical Control:Grazing with cattle or sheep from May through early September by a herbicide treatment in late September or early October. Option 414 Chemical Control Only: Herbicides can be used during the flower stage typically in June and July, and in the fall prior to a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for the site intended will be used. b. Road Rlghtemf-Way and Other Non Crop Areas su�ae�yphosate ulturaland 2,,4--D cane bControl: made followed ne byyrreseedinication g ingtheort fallrwihualcomrepettNnre sod forming grass mix. Option s2 Chemical Control Only: Herbicide can to used during the flower stage,typically in June and July,and in the fall Just before a hard freeze. Only the herbicides labeled for roadsides and other non cropland areas(wilt be.used. c. Cropland Sites: Field Bindweed is found in almost every crop grown in Weld County. Prescription weed management measures developed by Colorado State University weed scientists and the Weld County Extension Agronomist can be used. C. PREVENTION MEASURES Preventive control means using measures which will stop or forestall weeds from contaminating an area. Establishing preventive measures are often the most practical,and cost effective means of weed control. . The preventive measures which seem most practical for Weld County are as follows: 1. establishing weed free seed and mulch requirements for reclamation of disturbed sites, 2. promoting the Colorado Weed Free Hay and Forage program, 3. prioritizing weed management areas along routes of dispersal,and 4. identifying noxious weed species in counties bordering Weld County. 1. Weed Free Seed and Mulch Standards Where the ground is disturbed by activities, such as road preparation for road resurfacing,sand and gravel lot operations and oil and gas well operations, weeds will be the first plants to colonize or re-vegetate the site. It Is Important that these sites be reclaimed so that noxious weeds do not become established. Weld County plans to establish standards within two to four years for using weed free seed and mulch on all county operations concerned with the reclamation of disturbed sites, such as on roadside resurfacing projects and sand and gravel lot operations. Additional regulations may be considered for similar operations being carried out on private land. 2. Weed Free Hay and Forage Program Standards have been developed that enable growers the ability to have their hay and forage certified as noxious weed free. These standards will encourage growers to produce noxious weed free hay and forage so that it can be shipped and used anywhere in the U.S. (particularly where noxious weed free standards currently exist). The Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist will promote the Colorado Weed Free Forage Standards through the use of seminars,radio spots and newspaper articles. 3. Prioritizing Weed Management Areas Along Routes of Dispersal Weeds are spread rapidly through the dispersal of weed seeds in air and water. Consequently, high weed seed dispersal areas are associated with rights-of-wayy, such as along all roads and railroads and along waterways,I.e.,along the Poudre,South Platte,St.Vrain and Little Thompson Rivers and irrigation canals. The County Public Works Department will carry out a noxious weed control program on all county roads from May through September. The noxious weeds targeted for control Include: Canada, Musk, Scotch and Bull Thistle; Leafy Spurge; Russian, Diffuse and Spotted Knaoweed; Field Bindweed; whitetop; and wild prose millet. In addition, contact will continue to be made with the Department of Transportation,all irrigation and ditch companies in the county, the Union Pacific, Burlington Northern and Great Western Railroad companies, and the oil and gas companies operating within the county. Information regarding the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Act will be distributed and their cooperation will be encouraged. Assistance in helping them develop their Integrated weed management programs will be offered. In working with landowners on private property, all lands bordering the rivers in the county will be considered high priority areas. Landowner compliance with the Undesirable Plant Management Act will be encouraged. 4. Identifying Hoidens Womb In Berdedng Counties That Do Net Occur in Meld County Cpntact will continue to be made with the weed control departments in the bordering codnties to identify the noxious weed species which occur In each county that would threaten Weld County. Plans have been developed to monitor the borders of Weld County,as necessary. D. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS Education of the public is one of the most important components of a Weed Management program. Emphasis will be placed on continuing a multifaceted educational program. The following programs pave been instituted in the past and will continue to be conducted every year. 1. Timely newspaper articles concerned with weed identification and management: 2. Timely radio broadcasts following the information in the newspaper articles. 3. Conducting landowner weed management seminars and calibration workshops. 4. Having an educational booth at the Colorado Farm Show. 5. Utilizing brochures and CSU Service in Action brochures to hand out to individual landowners. E. MAPPING Establishing an accurate baseline map of the exsting noxious weed infestations In the county is extremely important for the ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness oahe county weed management program. Therefore, a computerized mapping program will be established that will mapnhe noxious weeds established in Weld County. , } County roadsides will be mapped using a compute and printer/datalogger on the spray equipment. Private and state land will be mapped by Public-Works Department pkrrsonnet taking aerial maps from the county assessor's office Into the field and-mapping on site. Through the use o the Auto CADD computer mapping program, the noxious weed infestations will be mapped. All mapping information will be stored in the county IBM computer systems and can be retrieved for future evaluation. F. ESTABLISHING COOPERATIVE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENTS Contact will be made with the following agencies concerning compliance with the Colorado Undesirable Plant Management Act: 1. Colorado Department of Transportation • 2. Colorado State Department of Parks and Recreation 3. Colorado Division of Wildlife 4. Colorado State Land Board 5. U.S. Forest Service • Assistance will be offered in helping each agency"develop integrated weed management plans for their lands. Actual assistance in carrying out the weed control programs on their properties will also be offered. Cooperative Intergovernmental agreements can be established If Weld County is asked to assist in implementing the weed control measures, - • G. ADOPT A ROADSIDE PROGRAM An 'Adopt a Roadside' program will be established which will give landowners the ability to take the responsibility to manage the noxious weeds on the county rights-of-way that borders theirlproperty. Landowners who are chemically senaa�//�rive or for some reason do not want chemicals sprayed or mowing activities carried out along their property,may�lake the responsibility for managing the noxious weeds on the roadside rights-of- way. Landowner agreements with ssssssPPPPPPeeeeeeccccccific requirements for compliance will be established. H. ENFORCEMENT ON PRIVATE AND PUBLIC PROPERTY Cooperation from all landowners (private and state) will be encouraged through positive communication by mail and through personal contact. When weed control measures are not canted out by a landowner,enforcement measures may have to be Instituted. All proty9dures as established by the Undesirable Plant Management Law, CRS§35-5.5-109,the Pest Control Districts Law, CRS§35.5.108, Weld County Ordinance 169-A, and any and all federal, state, and local regulations will be followed, prior to any enforcement activities being carried out on private or public property. Integrated weed management plans wig be requested from certain landowners, as determined by the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist and the Undesirable Plant Management AOTisory Board. Work priorities must be established due to the size of the county and the number of landowners with existing noxious weed problems. The following list prioritizes where enforcement activities will be carried out in ranking order of Importance: 1. Lands bordering all waterways(rivers and irrigation ditches). . 2. Complaint properties. , 3. Landowners identified as negligent In the past. 4. Landowners with twenty percent(20%)or more of their property infested with noxious weeds. V. EVALUATION OF PROGRAM The goals and the plan of work established in Sections III. and IV.of this Ordinance 169-A will be reviewed and evaluated at the end of every year. A written evaluation will be prepared establishing additions or changes in the plan of.work for the(Slowing year. Any additions or changes must be recommended by the Undesirable Plant Management Advisory Board and approved by the Board of County Commissioners. The Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan shall be reviewed and amended, as needed,at least every three years (CRS§35-5.5-107(4)(a)). ARTICLE 2— ENFORCEMENT OF IINDESIRARI p PI ANT MANAGEMENT PLAN I. AUTHORIZED AGENT FOR ENFORCEMENT Pursuant to CyYRS §35-5.5-105(2),the Weld County Vegetattiio3 to enforce the above-stated Undesirable Plant eng5-Management Specialist,ement Plan in the unincorporated employees and agents, are hereby authoriz State of Colorado, Statutes, ru thoses, procedures rocedu regulations, set foforth ineCRS including 35-5-109,remaining p and 35-5.5.108,and s of this ninan other No. applicable State II- EIGHT OF ENTRY Prior to entering private lands for the purpose of enforcing the Weld County Undesirable Plant Management Plan as set forth herein, the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist shall first obtain a 'right of entry' from the Board of'County Commissioners, no less than ten days after a Notice to Control Identified Undesirable Plants has been sent to the owner or occupant of the private lands and said owner or occupant has felled to comply with said notice. III. MAILING OF ASSESSMENTS . All assessments for the whole cost of any enforcement work performed by the Weld County Vegetation Management Specialist or his designee(s)upon private lands,Including up to 15%for inspection and other incidental costs in connection therewith,shall be Continuo to next pay. THE NORTH WELD HERALD THURSDAY,APRIL 4, 1996 /d. 169-A Continued from previous paps Ad to the landowner or occupant by certified mall. Failure to receive said assessment shall not act as a defense to said ,eessment. IV. *FAILURE TO PAY ASSESSMENT Any assessment which is not paid within thirty-three(33) days after the date of mailing by certified mail to the landowner or occupant of Ovate lands upon which the Weld County Vegetation Mena ent.Specialist or his designee(s) have performed enforcement work,shall constitute a lien agaaiynst each bi or tract of land until paid and may be certified by resolution-of the Board taxes Csuntyyn Commissioners ends It the eeWeld County with Treasurer's eaRS re§§is Office o be 35-5.5-109(5)(a).nthe same manner as provided for collection of prARTICLE 3— SEVERABILITY If any section,subsection,paragraph,sentence,clause or phrase of this Ordinance No. 189-A is,for any reason,held or decided to be Invalid on unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions.The Board of County Commissioners,Weld County, Colorado, hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance No. 189-A, and.In each and every section, subsection, paragraph, *dance,clause and phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,subsections, paragraphs,sentences,clauses,or pt$rases might be declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. ARGUE 4— LIABILITY This Ordinancceny other No. 19-A shshall nat may intended nadM deed to create is teeacce Na.189-Afof any against the Board of County Commissioners,Weld County,r ARTICLES— EFFECTIVEDATE This Ordinance No. 169-A shall become effective five (5) days atter Its final public notice, in accordance with Section 3-14(2) of the Weld unty Home Rule Charter. RTC EI.a I•"' AICE WITH NOTCE I OLWSwBaJTR The Board of County Commissioners hereby states and affirms that by following the reading and publication schedule set forth below, it has and hereby does comply with the notice requirements of CRS§35-5.5.108. ARTICLE 7—NO WAIVER OF IMMUNmESINO CREATION OF DUTIES-STANDARD OF CARE OR RIGHTS FOR THIRD PARTIES No portion of this Ordinance 189-A shall be deemed to constitute a waiver of any immunities which Weld County,Colorado, by and through 8M1eanBoard of County rryyCommissioners of Weld County,or any pest control districts andlor their Boards,or the Wel County Undesirable Plant create anyeduty standard of care or right Board or their seInrs or favor of army third ps arties the respect to any obligation created by this Ordinance 169s, nor shall any provision of this Ordinance 169-A be -A. to BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Board,If any section,subsection,paragraph,sentence,clause,or phrase of this Ordinance is f*r any reason held or decided to be unconstitutional,such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions hereof. The Board of County Commissioners hereby declares that it would have enacted this Ordinance in each and every section, subsection, paragraph, sentence,clause, and phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,subsections,paragraphs, sentences,clauses,or phrases might be declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. The above and foregoing Ordinance Number 189-A was,on motion duly made and seconded,adopted by the following vote on the 1st day of April,A.D., 1996. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WELD COUNTY,COLORADO ATTEST: /s/.Donald D.Warden is/.Barbara J.Kirkmeyer Weld County Clerk to the Board Barbara J.Kirkmeyer,Chair • (SEAL) /s//Georos E.Baxter George E.Baxter,Pro-Tern BY: /s/. Shelly K. Miller • Deputy Clerk to the Board /s/.Dale K.Hall Dale K.Hall APPROVED AS TO FORM: /s.Constance L.Harbert Constance L.Harbert /s/.Bruce T.Barker County Attorney /s/.W.H.Webster W.H.Webster Initial Publication: February 1,1996,in the North Weld Herald First Reading: March 4, 1996 Publication: March 7, 1996,in the North Weld Herald Second Reading: March 18, 1996 Publication: March 21,1996,in the North Weld Herald Final Reading: April 1,1998 • Publication: April 4, 1996,In the North Weld Herald Effective Date: April 9, 1996 Hello