This April, Prescott Creeks is launching a project to control invasive weeds in the Granite Creek Watershed and we need your help!
Not sure what an invasive weed is?
Invasive weeds are plants that (1) are not native to the US and (2) are a harm to human health, or cause economic or environmental harm. Invasive weeds can either be accidentally introduced (ex: animal feed) or intentionally introduced (ex: ornamental plants). Once released however, they spread out of control because ecosystems in the US lack adaptations to keep them in check.
Not sure why invasive weeds are a problem?
Invasive weeds are spreading at an alarming rate, especially in the Western US. It is estimated that invasive weeds colonize about 4,600 acres of our public lands every day. This weed invasion destroys native habitat and harms plant and animal biodiversity. Here in Prescott, Spotted Knapweed and several other invasive weeds have gained a foothold in our parks, creeks and backyards. Our widespread Spotted Knapweed is troubling because researchers have found increased erosion and stream sediment loads in watersheds where it is established. Nutrients and pollution bind to sediments and contribute to water quality problems in our watershed. If we can reverse the momentum of the invasive weeds in Prescott we could also improve water quality in Granite Creek and Watson Lake.
However, we must act quickly. Every year invasive weeds spread, sending out roots, dispersing millions of seeds that can persist for years and becoming more and more difficult to eradicate.
How can you help?
- Volunteer! We will be organizing 3 weed pulling and native seeding days in May, June and July.
- Learn to identify invasive weeds, and report them! Contact Prescott Creeks, Conservation Coordinator with Prescott Creeks or use EDDMaps (Early Detection and Distribution System for Invasive Species). An EDD Maps Invasive Species reporting App is also available for smart phones!
- Fight Back! Control invasive weeds on your property before they spread to your neighbors!
What weeds are on the Prescott Creeks List?
View a photo gallery of our Priority Invasive Weeds!
Or for more Priority Invasive Weed information check out these links:
Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa)
Common Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum)
Scotch Thistle (Onopordum accanthium)
Tamarisk/Salt Cedar (Tamarix ramosissima)
Dalmatian Toadflax (Linaria dalmatica)
Russian Olive (Eleaganus angustifolia)
Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens)
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is funding a major portion of this two year project through their “Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program.” Key partners for the project will include the Yavapai Weed Management Area, City of Prescott, the American Conservation Experience, and River Network.
If you want to get involved let us know!
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