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Weed board, NDSU Extension warn cuts would force staff losses and program reductions
Summary
Public commenters from the county weed board and NDSU Extension told commissioners that a 30% cut would force staff reductions and reduce key services: the weed board said deep cuts would reduce roadside and invasive‑species control; NDSU Extension said it could lose two to three staff positions and programming.
During the public‑comment portion, a representative for the weed board advised commissioners that state programs (LAP) effectively require the county weed board to budget the equivalent of a 3‑mill levy to receive reimbursements and continue operations. "We must levy or budget the equivalent of 3 mills," the commenter said, and offered detail on how the weed board currently operates with part‑time staff and tight resources.
Joel Anderson, the weed control officer, described the weed board as "running pretty lean" and warned that "if we get too much of a haircut, programs are gonna have to drop off," noting that cuts could allow invasive species such as Palmer amaranth to spread and increase costs for landowners. Carrie Knutson of NDSU Extension said a 30% reduction could force the extension to reduce staff by "2 or 3 people," curtailing educational programs residents rely on.
Why it matters: Both the weed board and extension provide services that reduce agricultural and roadside costs and deliver education. Substantial cuts to their budgets would change service levels and could shift costs to landowners or reduce state reimbursements tied to minimum levies.
