2021-08-18 WSU - Weed UpdateWSU / Weed Update
August 18, 2021
1:31 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Pollock, Commissioner Swope, Charles Edmonson,
Patrick Schults
Guest: Member(s) from the Chronicle
Recorder: Tammy Martin
Charles Edmonson said the approved treatment provided by Aquatechnex is tentatively scheduled
between August 23 and September 1, 2021. He said there will be signs posted 48 hours in advance of
treatment. Aquatechnex will not treat on the weekend or holiday. Charles said all land owners within a
quarter mile from Mineral Lake have been notified and the notice has been posted in the Chronicle.
Charles said based on past treatments of other lakes, it appears that only one treatment would be
necessary. Commissioner Stamper recommended using the Highway Shopper and the Daily Journal for
notices in the future. Charles did say there were a few negative responses that the Department of
Ecology (DOE) addressed. Charles said the WEED Department formally ended the Tansy Ragwort project.
They are currently evaluating on how best to educate the public about eradication of the weeds with a
survey to include how Lewis County Noxious Weed Control can better serve Lewis County landowners.
Purple Loosestrife and Invasive Knotweed treatment is currently underway in the watershed area of the
Tilton River. They are focusing efforts to deter the noxious weeds from entering other waterways.
Charles said it takes considerable effort to eradicate and he is experiencing difficulty hiring casual
persons for the Weed Tech position.
Patrick Schults said the WSU Extension office is now open. He said all the programs are starting to gear
up and if needed, there will be online options available. Patrick said he has been trying to provide
resources and outreach for the forestry programs. Patrick said approximately 64 hours of forest
stewardship has been provided state-wide. With online availability, they have been able to reach
different groups of people. Patrick said going forward, he would like to offer hybrid versions that offer
both online and in person options. Patrick said he is looking to provide assistance with issues due to the
droughts over the last 5 years. There will be more forest health issues and fire issues in the future.
Patrick informed the Board about Hose bill 1168 provides funding for managing forests, mechanical
thinning, better interaction and equipping of homeowners in the wildland urban interface, and
increased firefighting support.
Commissioner Stamper said he has been informed there have been issues with communication to 4-H
members. Patrick said he is working to provide better accessibility. Patrick said the focus needs to be
more one-on-one instead of a broad focus. Commissioner Pollock said the information needs to be up to
date and accessible for all members
Meeting ended at 1:57 p.m.