For immediate release: Oct. 4, 2022
Media contact:
John Ansley, Gallatin County Weed District Coordinator
406-582-3265
john.ansley@gallatin.mt.gov
Bridger Bowl Honored with First-Ever Gallatin County Outstanding Noxious Weed Management Award
Two employees of Bridger Bowl Ski Area were recognized for their contributions to noxious weed management and their dedication to promoting healthy plant communities in Gallatin County.
John VanHouten and Josh Thompson received the first-ever Gallatin County Outstanding Noxious Weed Management Award. They were honored at the Gallatin County Commission’s meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 4.
“Gallatin County is always very appreciative of those who go out of their way to manage noxious weeds on their property. Bridger Bowl is doing a lot,” said Gallatin County Commissioner Joe Skinner.
The Gallatin County Weed District wanted to honor these individuals or groups who are a vital part of noxious weed management in our county.
The award recognizes landowners and managers who do an exceptional job of controlling noxious weeds. These stewards are not only caring for their own land but are helping to protect the wild lands and local agriculture that make our county such a wonderful place to live.
The Weed District sought nominations over the summer. The Weed Board then reviewed the nominations and voted to give VanHouten and Thompson the award.
In nominating VanHouten and Thompson, it was noted that Bridger Bowl puts significant effort into promoting native forbs and grasses while reducing and eliminating noxious weeds on their over 2,000 acres of both private and federal land.
Bridger Bowl’s work includes regularly scheduled patrols, mowing and hand pulling to reduce weed seed production on the ski hill’s main runs, spraying to prevent weeds, and paying particular attention to parking lots that bring in outside weeds. If an infestation is identified, it is remediated, and the area is flagged for follow-up. And any areas of disturbance are seeded back to native grasses and monitored for weed germination over the next few years.
Bridger Bowl also collaborates regularly with Gallatin County, the U.S. Forest Service, and their neighbors Bridger Pines and Crosscut Mountain Sports Center.
Steve Saunders, member of the Gallatin County Weed Board, said the award offers an opportunity to educate the public and bring awareness to the importance noxious weed management. But it also is a chance to recognize folks who are truly making a difference.
“That’s what we’re looking for – people who really care,” Saunders said.
###
Photo Courtesy of Gallatin County: John VanHouten, center holding award, is joined by Gallatin County Weed District staff and Weed Board members.