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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDowny Brome One-Pager Y O U R G U I D E T O M A N A G I N G D O W N Y B R O M E I N T H E C O U N T Y O F N E W E L L Awareness and careful management can help reduce its spread. LET’S JOIN FORCES TO PROTECT OUR LANDS. Downy Brome is a grass-like, noxious weed classified as both a winter annual and an annual in the County of Newell, where it has been regulated since 1994 through local bylaw. In 2010, it was designated a noxious weed across Alberta with the update of the Weed Control Act. This invasive weed presents a serious threat to grasslands and disturbed areas, quickly outcompeting native vegetation. Due to its early maturation, Downy Brome dries out by late June, creating a significant fire hazard. PREVENT THE SPREAD In recent years, Downy Brome populations have resurged. The spread seems to be driven by a few local mechanisms: Cultivation equipment Mowing equipment Haying operations Soil transfer Need help identifying Downy Brome or other troublesome weeds? Or, do you know you have Downy Brome and want to control its spread? CONTROL OPTIONS FOR DOWNY BROME Due to its shallow root system, Downy Brome can be effectively hand-pulled in small patches. For larger areas, soil disturbance can help control growth, and all equipment used should be thoroughly cleaned afterward to prevent spreading. Chemical Control: Options are limited, but non-selective herbicides can be applied in late fall (if Downy Brome has surfaced) or early spring (during pre-seeding). In-crop herbicide options also exist, although limited—knowing if Downy Brome is in your field helps with targeted treatment. Mechanical Control: In areas where soil disturbance is less desirable, like field edges or stack yards, mowing is effective. For best results, mow after the seed head develops fully but before the seeds reach the milk stage (often when they take on a silver hue). Cleaning the mower thoroughly afterward helps minimize spread to new areas. The County of Newell Agricultural Service Board is responsible for enforcing the Weed Control Act, which requires landowners to manage the spread of noxious weeds Landowners must take action to control noxious weeds, like Downy Brome, to prevent their spread The County of Newell has a team of skilled staff trained in weed identification and control, eager to help you manage Downy Brome effectively The Eastern Irrigation District and local cattle producers have raised concerns about the rising populations of Downy Brome The Agricultural Service Board team is here to help. We’re committed to working with landowners and managers to reduce Downy Brome populations before they become endemic. Some areas have been battling this weed for the 30 years that it has been regulated, with varying degrees of success. By working together, we believe we can make meaningful progress. Let’s work together to protect our lands from this invasive weed. The County’s Agricultural Service Board is here to help in identification and prevention. Contact us at 403-362-3266.