PLEASE POST OR PASS ALONG Apologies for any Cross-Posting * * * WINNING the WEED WAR * * * a Free Training for Citizens and Restoration Partners Sponsored by the Green Tacoma Partnership with funding from the City of Tacoma Make A Splash Grant Program WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 2009; 9:00 am - 12:00 pm WHERE: Tacoma Nature Center (1919 South Tyler - Tacoma) RSVP* (by 6/11/09): Julie Kerrigan at (253) 223-0039 : jkerrigan@TahomaAudubon.org Are weeds running rampant in your back yard? Whether your "back yard" is a private residence, a school campus or a public open space, this training will give you insights on how to effectively manage invasive plants while using fewer chemicals. Join the Green Tacoma Partnership as we tour the grounds of the Tacoma Nature Center with Kate Reedy, dynamic educator and invasives weed Specialist for the Pierce County Noxious Weed Board. Together, we will be in the field identifying weeds you will want to know, plus getting first-hand feel for a variety of effective weed tools. Participants will also come away with knowledge about weed regulations plus useful resources to which they can refer in the future. Whether it's ivy that's carpeting your trees and understory habitat, broom that's leaving a 50 year legacy in your landscape, or giant knotweed that's not just making, but taking room in your wetlands, we'll be examining the best methods available for weed control. Maybe it's stinky Bob that's bothering you, a recent riot of policeman's helmet, or a seductive desire to enjoy butterfly bush or Himalayan blackberries (before they get loose), we'll be considering the timing for best application of invasive plant controls, and other Best Management Practices. Concerned with how to handle the by-product of your invasive removal activities? Certain weeds, like daphne and hogweed need to be handled, literally, with care. We'll also be looking at whether or not plants you have removed can be left in place, +/or composted, or better placed in a bin heading to your local landfill. And what about using ubiquitous weed barrier fabrics? Do silver bullet remedies really work, or will we need to return to remove even more or other weeds later (while wishing we had better aim)? You'll want to dress for the weather, wearing layers, as needed and heavy shoes for walking in the woods. *When you RSVP, be sure to leave us with: - Your name - A daytime telephone number - Your e-mail address The Green Tacoma Partnership works to engage the Tacoma community in the restoration and maintenance of viable, healthy natural spaces by connecting stewardship groups, providing resources and training, and organizing public outreach. For more information visit: greentacoma@cascadeland.org.