Learn to fight back against weeds

Blackberries, ivy, holly, Scotch broom, reed canary grass, and knotweed are just a few of the invasive weeds that plague landowners. The Washington State University Extension Forestry program is offering a 7-hour invasive forest weed control field practicum to equip landowners with everything they need to know to get a leg up on these invaders. The field practicum will be held Saturday, September 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the New Tree Farm 1130 Stanwood Bryant Rd Arlington, WA 98223 approximately 1.5 miles from I-5, Exit 212.  Plan to arrive early as doors open at 8:00am to meet invasive weed control organizations and herbicide suppliers.

This hands-on event will include demonstrations and practicing of multiple control techniques such as using a weed wrench, sheet mulching, foliar herbicides, cut stump treatments, and stem injection.  Participants will also learn how to use herbicides safely including what products to use and where to buy, how to read and follow labels, practice tank mixing with dyes, and learn pesticide laws. 

The cost to attend is $20 per person or $30 per couple before September 16 and $35/$45 before 5:00 p.m. on September 28.  There is a special student and Master Gardener rate (call for details).

To register or learn more, visit http://forestry.wsu.edu/nps/events/weeds or contact WSU Extension Forestry at 206-263-1128 for details.

Participants should dress for the weather, wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts, wear sturdy, close-toed footwear, pack their own sack lunch, and prepare to walk short distances in forested terrain.  Parking, restrooms, coffee, refreshments, handwashing stations, and drinking water are available on site.

Extension programs are available to all without discrimination. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication or program information or reasonable accommodation should contact WSU Extension Forestry at least two weeks before the event.