Rangeland Weeds

Day 3 — Rangeland Weeds

What is a rangeland? Rangelands host native vegetation, predominantly grasses, grass-like plants, forbs, or shrubs, that provide forage and cover for wildlife and domestic livestock, high-quality water, open space, and recreational opportunities (USDA). In Montana, rangelands make up about 70% of our 93-million acres (MSU).

Unfortunately, noxious weeds can have a significant impact on our rangelands. For Day 3 of MNWAW, we are sharing resources about rush skeletonweed, spotted knapweed, and leafy spurge. Each has different characteristics that effect our rangelands. Use these resources to learn something new and/or as a way to promote and distribute information to your constituents, family, friends, and neighbors.

Fact Sheets
Montana Knapweeds—MSU Extension
Rush Skeletonweed—MSU Extension
Leafy Spurge—Montana Field Guide

Videos/Podcasts
Spotted Knapweed—MT Department of Agriculture
Rush Skeletonweed—MT Department of Agriculture
Leafy Spurge—MT Department of Agriculture
How did Montana become infested with knapweed?—Montana Public Radio
Leafy Spurge—Explore Biodiversity; Rob Nelson

Activities & Helpful Websites
Rush Skeletonweed—MT Department of Agriculture
Leafy Spurge—PBS
Human Interactions and Noxious Weeds Activity

Other Articles & Information
Long-term Outcome of Leafy Spurge Integrated Management—MSU Extension
Field Guide for Managing Leafy Spurge in the Southwest—USDA
Grazing Prescriptions Leafy Spurge—Society for Range Management
Field Guide for Managing Rush Skeletonweed in the Southwest—USDA
Rush skeletonweed a growing perennial problem—Capital Press
Wicked Weed of the West—Smithsonian
Predicting Spotted Knapweed study—University of Montana; William Frank Preston Cumming

As MNWAW is declared statewide, help us create a united front in the fight against noxious weeds in Montana, educate those around us, and celebrate the wins. Don’t forget to watch our gun raffle fundraiser LIVE on our Facebook page at 5pm.

Follow along, share, and engage with us!!