It’s Native Plant Appreciation Week!

By Sam Leininger on April 20, 2018 in Events

Let’s Celebrate!

The WeedWise program is in the business of preventing and controlling invasive weeds. As anyone that spends much time battling invasive weeds can attest, our work can feel a little daunting at times. We all have those days, when we are battling a rather bothersome patch of invasive weeds, and lose sight of the real reason that we are controlling these plants…their impact. One of the greatest impacts that invasive weeds have is by replacing our native flora. These native plants characterize our natural areas and provide the food and shelter our wildlife needs. They are what help make Oregon…Oregon!

Native Plant Appreciation Week is April 22-29, 2018. This event provides a great opportunity for us to reflect on why we work so hard to control invasive weeds. So join us in celebrating the native flora that defines our wonderful state.

Give Weeds the Brush Off!

Boot Brushes at work! Note the weed seeds captured here. Photo courtesy: Emily Stevenson, Skamania County Noxious Weed Program

One of the best ways to enjoy Native Plant Appreciation Week is to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of our state. But before you venture out to your favorite wildflower hiking spot, you will want to make sure to clean your boots, clothing, and equipment to avoid spreading invasive weed seeds. We are one of the primary ways that invasive weeds move, so help Stop Invasive Weeds in Your Tracks!

There are many beautiful areas to view our native plants, but one of the premier areas to enjoy many of our native plants is within the Columbia River Gorge. The WeedWise has joined our Columbia Gorge Cooperative Weed Management Area partners to give weeds the brush-off both in celebration of Earth Day and Native Plant Appreciation Week. Volunteers are going to be stationed at various trail heads throughout the Columbia Gorge to hand out free boot brushes to raise awareness about the importance of cleaning hiking boots, clothing, and equipment before venturing into our high quality natural areas. So as you venture out this week, help to Spread the Word and Not the Weeds!

Learn More!

You can also show your appreciation by learning more about native plants. Check some of the links below for native plant information and activities underway in celebration of Native Plant Awareness Week