Commissioners approve noxious-weed reports, 2026 management plan and KDOT roadside treatment agreement

Finney County commissioners approved multiple items related to noxious-weed control: the 2025 eradication progress report, the 2026 noxious-weed management plan, and a 2026 agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation under which the county will treat state highway rights-of-way.

Noxious Weed Director Jerry H. presented the 2025 annual report (a K.S.A. 2-1316 requirement), summarizing acreage treated across private, township, county and state lands and noting target species including field bindweed, Johnson grass, musk thistle and Canada thistle. The report documents personnel (three positions including director and two technicians), chemical usage, acres treated and financial summaries; staff recommended approving the report for signature and submission to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and the board approved the recommendation.

Jerry H. also presented the 2026 management plan, which sets operational priorities, integrated management practices and projected program costs (personnel, operations, equipment). Commissioners asked about the per-hour equipment/personnel cost (about $60) and were told the rate has been stable but may need adjustment in future years; the plan was approved.

Finally, staff recommended and the board approved a 2026 agreement with KDOT for roadside treatment. Under the agreement the county provides labor, equipment and herbicide application and KDOT reimburses 100% of herbicide and dye costs while the county bills KDOT for labor and equipment. Staff said participation provides reimbursement revenue to offset operational costs and does not require additional county funding beyond normal operations.

Next steps: signed reports and plans will be submitted to the Kansas Department of Agriculture; the signed KDOT agreement will allow roadside treatment to proceed under the state program and reporting requirements.