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F. Watch List Species <br />Watch List Species were added to the noxious weed list in 2011 to help with <br />early detection of potential noxious weeds. The impact of these species has <br />not been identified yet and may be present in adjacent states where they could <br />potentially spread to Colorado. <br />W. Weed Management Strategies <br />Using a combination of methods for noxious weed control increases the effectiveness <br />and efficiency of control. This is accomplished by continually depleting nutrient <br />reserves and reducing the ability of the weed to reproduce. Being able to use a variety <br />of methods also allows for the flexibility required to control different species of weed <br />infestations in varying locations under varying and unpredictable environmental <br />conditions. The following list of control methods is not exhaustive. Alternative <br />methods that are not listed below will be evaluated for effectiveness by Open Space <br />and Park staff. Also, some methods may be considered in multiple categories. <br />A. Prevention <br />The most effective way to control noxious weeds is to prevent their initial <br />establishment. Once noxious weeds become established, their control is <br />costly and time consuming. <br />1. Methods <br />a. Limit disturbance to landscapes, especially those that create <br />bare ground <br />b. Clean boots, clothing, and equipment of seed before entering <br />and leaving City properties <br />c. Monitor and amend soil where appropriate <br />d. Require dogs to be leashed <br />e. Limit social trails <br />f. Require contractors and utility maintenance personnel to reseed <br />or plant native vegetation, where appropriate, after creating a <br />disturbance to the soil. <br />g. Require weed free restoration materials <br />h. Ongoing property monitoring <br />B. Education <br />Noxious weed education is an important step in IWM for both the City staff <br />and the public. Weed management is a complex and evolving field of study <br />that requires staff to continually increase their knowledge and understanding <br />so that weed control methods can be used in the most effective means <br />possible. Also, it is important to educate the public about noxious weeds so <br />that they understand the necessity of their control and will support the City's <br />efforts. Furthermore, a more educated public will be able to more effectively <br />control noxious weeds on their own property. <br />Integrated Weed Management Plan 6 <br />10 <br />