Kinnikinnick Chapter Of The Idaho Native Plant Society

August 28th, 2006

Leslie Marshall Re: Eurasian Milfoil Plan

The Kinnikinnick Chapter of the INPS has watched the controversy over chemical treatment of Eurasian Milfoil. We supported Rep. Anderson's request to the legislature for monies for treatment when the course of treatment was unspecified but the need for control was obvious.

We attempt to base our comments on issues using documented science and direct them specifically to native plant ecosystems. We are interested in receiving information from your efforts and research that will enable us to participate constructively within our area of knowledge.

• 1. Before treatment began, the Bonner County Public Works Department indicated that one or two years of chemical treatment should enable the County to avoid the further use of chemicals. Since control of Milfoil will extend well beyond this year, we would like to receive a copy of the 2007 treatment plan and your multi-year action plan, including how the county proposes to limit the spread and re-introduction. If this plan does not yet exist by what date will it be developed and what information will it contain?
• 2. How will you track success of treatment and what has your tracking information shown on the initial success of this treatment?
• 3. What has your further research shown on the secondary effects of current treatment, and how long will you track these effects?
• 4. Several non-chemical treatment options exist. What results has your research shown about their efficacy and applicability to our county waters? How do you intend to integrate non-chemical treatment options into your long-term plans?
• 5. What source(s) of funding will enable the County to ensure long-term success against Eurasian Milfoil?
• 6. What plans do you have for public education/cooperation with local communities and groups?
• 7. With what other agencies (governmental and private) are you working now and in the future for this project?

The community, as should be expected, has shown a great deal of interest and anxiety on this issue. Any treatment process, particularly of this magnitude, has an impact on the natural environment and the people living there. Since control of milfoil is a multi-year project, we ask that you clearly involve civic and volunteer groups in your planning, monitoring and prevention strategies. This community has a considerable amount of expertise in plant and ecological systems and desires to contribute towards the education and control of this threat.

Thank you,

Phil Hough, President Kinnikinnick Chapter Idaho Native Plant Society

CC: Bonner County Commissioners: Marcia Phillips, Joe Young, Karl Dye Eric Anderson Sharon Sorby