Grant #225

Truckee River Invasive Species Control Project

Project Description:

TRWC will complete a survey of the treatment areas, collecting GPS-based records for all invasive species infestations. Following these surveys, we will provide three rounds of repeated treatments using chemical and manual methods. Specific methodologies will be selected based on the target species, habitat, and phenology. For example, manual methods will be used near aquatic habitats or sensitive native species. Conversely, certain species, such as spotted knapweed, spread rhizomatously through their roots.  As such, manual pulling tends to stimulate growth and chemical applications are necessary for effective control.

To improve community awareness and involvement on weed management, TRWC will host two community weed pull or education events in 2020. These events will focus on informing and empowering the public so that they can become advocates for weed management in their community. The events will also teach volunteers how to identify, report, and, where appropriate, treat weeds on their own.

TMWA Benefit:

  • Watershed Improvements. The project will remove invasive species along 2.5 miles and 525 acres of the Truckee River. These species displace native riparian species and promote runoff and excess erosion to the Truckee River. Their removal supports attainment of the 303 (d) listed TMDL pollutant.
  • Stewardship and Environmental Awareness: The project includes a continuation of TRWC’s Weed Warriors community involvement and education program. These events have been very successful in outreach to community members regarding invasive species management and reporting. It educates and empowers the public to assist TRWC with invasive treatment and survey work in the watershed.
  • Meet Multiple Objectives. The projects meet the watershed, water quality, and community awareness objectives listed above. It also benefits habitat quality, recreational access and usability, and fire and fuels loading.
  • Leverage Stakeholder Assets and Participation. The project has leveraged significant landowner participation and assets. All of the private and public landowners are contributing match funding to support on-the-ground treatment.