New Weed-Free Twine to Limit the Spread of Invasive Species
Written by Caleb Nelson on April 20, 2022
The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) is partnering with the North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) to issue a new twine color for use on “weed-free” hay. The new blue and orange twine will be applied to “any forage or hay certified as weed-free,” and will come with certification forms.
The aim of this initiative is to limit the spread of harmful and dangerous weeds. Federal and state lands often require “weed-free” forage and hay to curtail the spread of invasive weeds. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can take steps to act responsibility in this area as well. Common practices to help prevent the spread of unwanted weeds can be as simple as brushing off shoes and clothes before traveling, or as easy as draining, drying, and cleaning a boat or watercraft.
The bright orange and blue twine will make it easier to distinguish between types of hay.
Larry Smith, WWPC President, says, “It’s important to use weed-free forage whenever possible.” This measure, Smith explains, “ensures that it’s free of invasive weeds and helps offset the billons of dollars that it takes to control those weeds. It helps us keep Wyoming’s natural beauty alive” (Wyoming Weed and Pest Council).
The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council has a proud tradition here in the state, they’ve been working to maintain Wyoming’s legendary beauty by eradicating invasive species since 1973.
Invasive or “noxious” weeds, not unlike species of invasive fish, can damage to the landscape and cause problems for agricultural operations. The list of state designated noxious weeds includes the following: Black Henbane, Canada Thistle, Diffuse Knapweed, Common Burdock, Common St. Johns Wort, Dalmation Toadflax, Dyer’s Woad, Field Bindweed, Hoary Cress (Whitetop), Houndstongue, and Perennial Pepperweed—to name a few.
In the United States, it costs a staggering “$130 billion” dollars each year to manage, treat, and prevent invasive weeds according the WWPC. The new twine represents an additional tool for the state to deploy to combat the problem. Older purple and yellow twine will slowly be phased out as the new colors are incorporated by verified and certified hay producers. By visiting wyoweed.org, purchasers can find weed-free products and producers can have their products certified weed-free.
