Brought to you by the Missoula Valley Land Managers LEAVE NO WEEDS Leave No Weeds Principles Be aware and prepareBe aware and prepare Camp and travel in weed free areasCamp and travel in weed free areas Pull and pack out weeds when possiblePull and pack out weeds when possible Report weed infestationsReport weed infestations What is a weed? An unwanted plantAn unwanted plant This depends on your goals and valuesThis depends on your goals and values What is a noxious weed? A weed that the state and/or federal government has identified as a serious threat- they must be controlledA weed that the state and/or federal government has identified as a serious threat- they must be controlled Not all natural area weeds are noxious weedsNot all natural area weeds are noxious weeds Weeds: Whats the Problem? These plants did not evolve in this systemThese plants did not evolve in this system These plants did not come with natural controls such as insect predators, plant pathogens, and other competing plantsThese plants did not come with natural controls such as insect predators, plant pathogens, and other competing plants Grow rapidly and exclude desirable native plant speciesGrow rapidly and exclude desirable native plant species Missoula Hills Today Economic and Ecological Problems with Weed Invasions Decrease the economic value of land and cropsDecrease the economic value of land and crops Increase soil erosion and sedimentationIncrease soil erosion and sedimentation Decrease fish habitatDecrease fish habitat Decrease forage for livestock and wildlifeDecrease forage for livestock and wildlife Displace native plant speciesDisplace native plant species Lower plant biodiversityLower plant biodiversity Affect recreational valueAffect recreational value Increases erosion into streams and rivers