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California Invasive Weeds Awareness Week 2007 begins July 16th!

by Daniel Gluesenkamp, Ph.D., Habitat Protection and Restoration Specialist

California Invasive Weeds Awareness Week is an annual event that brings attention to the problems caused by invasive plants in California, and to the work of local groups that protect our natural areas and rangelands. In 2004, the California state legislature signed a proclamation declaring California Invasive Weeds Awareness Week to begin the third Monday of July every year.

Biological invasions are one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time and can cause major impacts to wildlife and water. Invasive weeds can poison livestock and cause farmers to use pesticides. They can ruin recreation by turning meadows into thistle fields. Monocultures of invasive weeds can spread across pristine natural areas like a green oil slick and crowd out biological diversity.

The only good thing about invasive weeds is that it's a problem we can do something about! Working together to keep our wildlands invasive weed-free and to remove weeds where they are causing environmental harm, ranchers and environmentalists cooperate in preserving the diverse and productive landscapes we all love.

As stewards of 27 sanctuaries in Marin and Sonoma counties, Audubon Canyon Ranch is actively addressing the problems caused by invasive weeds. Dedicated volunteers regularly join to remove weeds from sensitive habitats, and staff biologists conduct original research to develop new prescriptions for healing invaded lands. Most importantly, Audubon Canyon Ranch staff is working with conservation partners to develop regional and statewide solutions. This includes working with the Marin Sonoma Weed Management Area to coordinate efforts across the two counties; building a Bay Area Early Detection Network for responding to outbreaks before they become a problem; and serving as president of the California Invasive Plant Council.

Be sure to read the article and view the dramatic photos about ACR science staff's recent progress removing medusahead grass recently an a four acre parcel at the Bouverie Preserve!

If you're interested in restoring natural areas, please consider joining Audubon Canyon Ranch staff and volunteers at one of our fun and satisfying Habitat Restoration Days. Additional information on invasive plants and the California Invasive Weeds Awareness Week can be found on our partners' websites:

California Invasive Plant Council is a statewide organization dedicated to protecting California wildlands through restoration, research, and education. Great site for information on all things invasive!

Marin Sonoma Weed Management Area is a local organization that brings together landowners and managers to coordinate efforts and expertise.

Bay Area Early Detection Network is building a system for identifying, reporting, and responding to outbreaks before they become widespread.