Certain plants are classified by the California Department of
Food & Agriculture (CDFA) as noxious/invasive weeds. Knapweed, shown
right, is rated 1A (high infestation). If the CDFA concludes that these plants are
becoming a threat to human food and agricultural practices they may authorize treatment to eradicate these plants. The presence and
density of these plants is then monitored throughout the state.
One method of CDFA treatment is the application of syntetic
herbicides on targeted plants. MKWC recognizes that spraying
herbicides in and around waterways can be harmful to elements of the
ecosystem other than the intended noxious/invasive weed. Using
herbicides to remove noxious/invasive weeds can be useful if done in
carefully selected areas on selected targets. Using herbicides as a
primary method of treatment may pose a threat to wildlife and
people.
MKWC aims to come to an understanding as to what combination of
treatments is most effective while minimizing threats to other
plants, animals, and people.
