Got Cogongrass? FL Forest Service has a Cost-share program to help with Control

by | Aug 16, 2012 | Pest Alert, Weeds

2012 Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program

Sign-up Period: July 31, through August 28, 2012

A Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program is currently being offered to eligible
non-industrial private landowners by the Florida Forest Service (FFS) through temporary grants from the USDA Forest Service. The primary objective of this program is to reduce the spread of cogongrass to new areas by helping private landowners control or eradicate existing infestations. Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica L.) is a non-native, invasive grass which is established in Florida and several other southeastern states. In addition to being regulated as a state and federal noxious weed, cogongrass is a pest plant in 73 countries, and has been recognized as one of the “Top 10 Worst Weeds in the World.” Cogongrass infestations negatively affect tree regeneration, growth, and survival, as well as wildlife habitat, native plant diversity, forage quality, and may affect property values. They also increase the risk of wildfires, and alter fire behavior.

This program offers cost-share reimbursement for herbicide treatment of cogongrass infestations. Approved applicants are required to treat the infestations for two consecutive years. The program will reimburse 75% of the cost of treating cogongrass infestations over two consecutive years, up to a maximum of $100 per acre per year (or $100 per year for treatment of less than an acre), or $200 per acre over the two-year contract period. Please see the Technical Guidelines Booklet (pdf, 853k) for practice requirements and recommendations.

If eligible applications exceed the available funds, first priority will be given to the fourteen counties bordering Alabama and Georgia: Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Madison, Nassau, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton. Higher priority will be given to applications to treat 5 acres or less of infested area.

For more information,  contact your  Florida Forest Service County Forester, or got to the Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program website.

Doug Mayo
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