CONEJOS COUNTY — It is time once again to begin controlling noxious weeds.
There are over 400 different weed species in the state of Colorado of which 74 are considered noxious.
A noxious weed is not native to the area, can become invasive and take over an area, and prevent natural plants from growing.
Noxious weeds need water and nutrients to grow and, therefore, leave little nourishment for natural plants. Weeds can contribute to wildfires which destroy natural habitat for local animals, birds, insects and personal property.
Many noxious weeds are poisonous to animals as well as humans.
Some weeds may contain certain food value to animals but can also prevent grass and other crops from flourishing.
If residents do not make an effort to control the noxious weeds on your property, then who will?
To help with noxious weed control, the Conejos County Weed District is offering to cost share with landowners in the unincorporated areas of Conejos County.
Landowners who own property within the Weed District may be assisted at a rate of 65 percent paid by the weed district and 35 percent paid by the landowner. The district will assist up to a maximum of $400 per landowner.
Those people owning property outside of the Weed District may be assisted at a rate of 50 percent paid by the Weed District and 50 percent paid by the landowner. The assistance will be up to a maximum of $400 per landowner.
The Conejos County Weed District also has three 50 gallon weed sprayers and two backpack sprayers available for personal use.
A small deposit will be required at the time of check out. The deposit will be returned to the landowner when the sprayers are returned in good working order.
To sign up for the cost share program or to use one of these sprayers, please contact Myron Price at (719)588-2005.