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Milfoil eradicated on island; Star Grass remains a concern, Wahkiakum County weed board hears
Summary
A county commissioner told the Wahkiakum County Noxious Weed Board that milfoil on a local island has been eradicated but Star Grass persists; members discussed whether treatment will fit in the upcoming budget and whether horsetail should be added to the county's weed list.
Lee Tischer, Wahkiakum County commissioner, told the Wahkiakum County Noxious Weed Board on Jan. 5 that "the milfoil on the island has been eradicated, but the Star Grass is still an issue." The comment came during the public-comment portion of the board's regular meeting.
Board members discussed next steps for controlling Star Grass on the island and whether treatment funds would be included in the coming year's budget. Kay Walters asked whether island Star Grass control would be in the budget this year; Chair Todd Souvenir said it could be if included but the board does not yet have the year's budget. The exchange left timing and funding for treatment unresolved.
Lore Twiet raised the possibility of adding horsetail to Wahkiakum County's noxious-weed list, noting that "currently it's considered a native plant so it's not on the list." Board members discussed the process for adding species to the county list but did not record a formal motion to pursue a change; the item was placed on the agenda for future discussion. The board agreed to continue outreach through a "Weed of the Week" column in The Eagle to inform residents about local weed issues.
The board's discussion clarified that while milfoil appears controlled on the island, other invasive or troublesome plants remain under review and any control effort will depend on whether funding and formal listing changes are approved at future meetings.
