County weed program reports new equipment, partnerships and growing private‑land demand

Chaffee County weed‑management staff told commissioners they used helicopters, boats and new ground equipment this summer to treat invasive plants and expand private‑land services. The program reported targeted surveys and treatments in Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Interlake Fire scar, the purchase of a UTV and trailer, 10 private‑land assessments completed this year and an America’s Beautiful grant paying a contractor to spray cheatgrass along county roads.

The update matters because county staff said invasive species are concentrated in cliff and shoreline areas that require specialized treatment; continued follow‑up after land disturbance or restoration projects will be necessary to prevent reinfestation. Staff said they are building partnerships with federal and nonprofit land managers to coordinate pre‑ and…