County conservation staff report annual weed control work; board authorizes chair to sign report

Cerro Gordo County conservation staff presented the annual weed‑control report on Oct. 27 and the board authorized the chair to sign the document.

Ryan Bookie, who identified himself as the roadside trainer and county weed commissioner, said county crews sprayed the entire county for noxious weeds this year with a primary focus on Canada thistle and targeted brush control in the southern tier of townships (Grimes, Pleasant Valley, Geneseo and Dougherty townships were named). He said crews sent two formal letters and handled only a few complaints during the season.

Board members asked about species classifications and management cycles; Bookie said wild parsnip is classified as a secondary (secondary) target in the county program but that some areas will require multi‑season treatments to regain control due to disturbed ditch banks. A motion and second approved the report and authorized the chair to sign.

The report will be filed with relevant state offices as part of the county's annual noxious‑weed reporting requirements.