Cost-sharing funding available for weed and ground squirrel control
Special to the HT
The White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts have funding remaining in their cost-share programs for noxious weed management and ground squirrel control, and local landowners still have time to take advantage of this opportunity. The Districts have also increased the maximum cost-share reimbursement to $1,500 per participant.
With a deadline approaching, now is a good time to look at weed management needs, gather receipts for eligible expenses, or start planning for ground squirrel control next spring. Both programs are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding lasts. Eligible expenses and required paperwork must be submitted by the applicable program deadlines.
1. Noxious Weed Control
Noxious weeds can reduce forage availability, affect wildlife habitat, and spread across property boundaries. Timely treatment helps protect productive rangeland and agricultural ground while limiting the spread of invasive plants.
Landowners may be eligible for cost-share reimbursement for qualifying herbicide purchases or weed treatments. If you purchased herbicide or completed an eligible treatment earlier this year, you may still be able to submit those expenses for reimbursement. Landowners can also purchase herbicide for future treatments within the program’s eligible timeframe. Herbicide is available through Rio Blanco County Weed and Pest Control and local feed stores. Keep your receipts and contact the Districts if you have questions about eligibility or the application process. For program details and application materials, visit www.whiterivercd.com/noxious-weed-cost-share-program.
2. Ground Squirrel Control: Plan Ahead for Spring 2027
Fall is also a good time to start planning for ground squirrel control next spring. Ground squirrels can damage pastures, reduce usable forage, create hazards for livestock and equipment, and affect the productivity of working lands. Planning ahead can help landowners coordinate treatment timing, explore available options, and be ready when the spring treatment window opens.
The Districts offer cost-share assistance for eligible ground squirrel mitigation expenses, including qualifying treatment costs through USDA APHIS and eligible toxicant purchases. Landowners experiencing ground squirrel problems are encouraged to contact the Districts now to discuss treatment options and determine whether arrangements can be made to cover eligible expenses ahead of early spring treatments.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
The current funding opportunity runs through November 30, 2026, with eligible expenses and required documentation subject to the applicable program deadlines. Because funding is limited, landowners are encouraged to contact the Districts as soon as possible rather than wait until the deadline approaches.
Whether you are addressing noxious weeds on your property or preparing for next spring’s ground squirrel control, these cost-share programs are intended to help reduce the financial burden of managing challenges that affect local agricultural lands and rangeland health.
For more information, contact the White River or Douglas Creek Conservation Districts or visit www.whiterivercd.com.